WHO: Partners Xenia Taler and Steven Koblinsky. Xenia designs the images and Steven crafts the tiles.
WHERE: In their Toronto studio.
WHEN: Since 1996
HOW: Tiles are pressed in molds made of wood, or extruded. Glazes are mixed from scratch.
WHY: Because we hope that one day, a long long time from now, not only will your children fight mercilessly over the wonderful tiles you so wisely purchased, but, even when humankind is forced to venture off this world and fend among the stars, those tiles will be the second or third item on a strict ten item list which your descendents feel they must take along with them on their arduous journey.
WHAT ELSE: Xenia and Steven's tiles have been sold and collected for over 15 years and are available in shops across North America. Their work has been documented in various media and has been featured in four books, the most recent being, Print and Pattern by Marie Perkins, Laurence King Publishing, 2010, and Olivier Dupon's The New Artisans, Thames & Hudson, 2011.
Their distinctive images have been licensed to create various products for companies such as Barnes & Noble and Urban Outfitters.
Xenia has worked with Aid to Artisans, collaborating with artisans from El Salvador and Egypt, and translating the appeal of their charming wares for a modern market.
Xenia's name is pronounced like the country "Kenya" but with an 's': "Ksenya".
COMING UP: New products and new designs! Stay tuned for developments.
We love to hear from you! Please contact us directly for any inquiries including press, project proposals, licensing designs, or just to say hello.
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