Creator spotlight: Tishk Barzanji.

Meet Tishk Barzanji, one of our Objects of Desire artists. Tishk is a dream-world builder and visual artist based in London. Read on to find out why we’re so obsessed with them and take a peek behind their creative process.

What first got you into the world of art and design?

I was studying physics at the University, and then I spent a short while at home after becoming ill. I decided to make art to pass time, it was just for myself, but the more I created the more fascinated I was with exploring art.

You moved to London from Kurdistan when you were young. You’ve seen such a breadth of culture! Would you say your travels have had an impact on your art?

For sure, the terrain and culture ignited my interest in history. So, I looked at the Babylonia period extensively. The structures and spaces they created were monumental. I wanted to explore these ideas in my own work, which led me to create surreal spaces, and structures that made me think about my existence.

You’ve worked with New York Times, NET-A-PORTER, and Gucci. We’re in awe. It feels like picking your favorite child, but we have to ask — what’s your favorite piece to brag about at a dinner party?

I’ve been very lucky to work with some great brands, and Klarna too! That’s a tough one, I don’t think I have a favourite. But I would say all the pieces that created a conversation and inspired people to also to create.

The past year a lot of us were stuck inside. What was the weirdest quarantine purchase you made?

I spent a lot on food, I guess like everyone else cooking at home became more interesting. But the weirdest… An automatic head massager! Perfect for when you’re stressed haha.

You always feature a human element in your work. Are these silhouettes based on actual people in your life, or are they just plucked from the coolest recesses of your mind?

When I first began my work I sketched random people which I later used in my earlier work, but in recent times I have created the characters based on people I know or met. But there is something fascinating when the character is anonymous.

So we’re a little nosy and must know, what brands have you been shopping lately?

Some Nike sneakers lately, and a lot of lounge wear from COS.

Our fashionista is jumping out right now. Your style is immaculate. Do you have a favorite piece of clothing? And what’s the story behind it.

The story is I used to sell vintage designer clothes, I found inspiration in the colours and prints. My style is just an extension of my work, that’s the way I see it. Colour coordination is something I’m passionate about, my mint Burberry suit I think! I purchased it the first time I was in LA so it brings back memories.

Last question, If you could pass any advice to yourself when you were starting out, what would it be?

“Start making art at 17 not 27!” but also to take time, and trust the process because everyone’s clock is different.