In this episode of Mazda Discovers, Luke Jackson Clark travels across Iceland in the Mazda3 on a road trip to meet Asthildur Magnusdaughtir, a weaver working with locally sourced Icelandic sheep wool.
Asthildur explains how Icelandic weaving begins with local sheep and follows a step-by-step method: separating wool fibres, carding, spinning and weaving on a loom. The process is slow by design, shaped by Iceland’s climate and the need for warmth, durability and longevity.
Reaching her workshop involves long distances, winter roads and remote landscapes, factors that influence both how people travel and how craft is practiced in Iceland.
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LEATHER-MAKING IN SPAIN ABOUT MAZDA DISCOVERS
Our Mazda Discovers YouTube series brings you up close and personal with some of the world's most unique craftsmen. Like Mazda, these artisans are dedicated to combining traditional techniques with a modern approach, crafting extraordinary objects, art, and culinary experiences. Their inspiring stories are narrated by YouTube creators who share a similar passion for their craft.
SECOND SEASON
In the second episode of season two of #MazdaDiscovers, we travel with Italian creator Oliver Astrologo in the Mazda CX-5, from the historic streets of Italy to the vibrant village of Grazalema in southern Spain. This episode uncovers the intricate world of leathercraft, showcasing the extraordinary talent of José Luis Bazán and his son Ben. Their work transcends traditional leather-making, creating pieces that blend functionality with striking artistic expression.
José Luis Bazán and Ben represent a lineage of artisans who treat leather not just as a material but as a canvas for storytelling and art. Their workshop in Grazalema is a treasure trove of leather art, from elegant bowls to awe-inspiring sculptures, each piece narrating its unique tale. Their artistry, receiving acclaim in publications like Vogue, reflects a profound respect for material and tradition.
Oliver Astrologo's journey, captured through his discerning lens, reveals the meticulous process and passionate dedication behind each creation. The Bazáns' philosophy resonates deeply with Mazda's approach to design, where functionality and aesthetic elegance coexist seamlessly. In their hands, leather transforms into objects of beauty, challenging the conventional boundaries of art and craft.
The episode on leather-making in Spain is a captivating addition to the #MazdaDiscovers series. It parallels Mazda's philosophy of combining beauty with purpose, highlighting how traditional crafts can inspire modern design. The story of José Luis Bazán and his son Ben is not just about creating leather art; it's a narrative of heritage, innovation, and the enduring power of human creativity.
Stay tuned for more episodes exploring unique art forms and craftsmanship around the world.
In the third episode of our second season of #MazdaDiscovers we join Kay Van Huisseling, as he uncovers the world of traditional boatmaking.
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COMMENTS
- Beautiful! What a great story. Asthildur's work is great and I loved learning about the layers in the wool! Brilliant storytelling from Luke and that establishing shot over Asthildur's workshop was stunning.- It's Iceland. The sheep are so cute (lol). They remind me of Professor McGonagall from the Harry Potter movie. Thank you (lol). From retired MAZDA teacher Matsuda
- Your house looks like the World Heritage Site of Shirakawa-go! Thank you for the Mazda3 after so long! (lol) From retired Mazda teacher Matsuda.
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