My interest in manufactured things began as a child, when my mother took me to flea markets. Before that, I liked making and building things myself.
Andreas Engesvik
Drawings, paper, glue, Lego and bits and pieces, often from broken machines or objects. As a teenager I became interested in antiques. I restored and repaired furniture at a simple level before selling it on.
I started studying art history at 20 and imagined I would become a historian, and eventually work with the preservation of cultural heritage. When I was about to begin my graduate studies a few years later, I applied to the National College of Art and Design instead. I started more or less from scratch, but felt the level of teaching was too low. I developed an academic complex and applied to the National Academy of Fine Arts two years in a row without getting in.
A few years into my studies, I discovered how exciting and difficult design was. I also realised that it was possible to contribute to change on many different levels in society, and that much of it aligned well with my own values.
I started my own practice in Bergen in 2000. I understood early on that I had to find new markets to establish myself. I went abroad, and after a few years I chose to move to Oslo.
The new collaborative project left a solid mark as an example of the will to build something in a difficult field. The project came to an end in 2009. Someone else decided that what I had spent almost ten years building no longer had any value.
Over time, Andreas Engesvik, Oslo gained momentum and strength. I also gradually regained my confidence, even though it had nearly cost me everything.
I like working with skilled people, people with values and vision. I like to think, talk and create. I like analysis and difficult things. I like to think I can be a good sparring partner in the early idea phases.
I believe my field will matter in the years ahead. The world is drowning in cheap goods and overconsumption. For me and many other designers, the practice itself is almost a rebellion, a counterweight to everything that breaks. In terms of benefit to society, the role of the designer will only become more important.
I like using my hands. In my spare time I work on cars. It gives me a sense of mastery, and I have to learn new things. When I use my hands, my mind gets a break, which is good and necessary.
As Grung Engesvik in 2026, I am entering a new phase that I believe in. I enjoy working with Jannicke, we make a good team, and we have plans ahead!