Q&A by Vibia: Interview with Arik Levy

“Design is an uncontrolled muscle” according to Arik Levy.

Designer, technician, artist, photographer, filmmaker, Levy’s skills are multidisciplinary and his work is exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums around the world. Best known for its furniture design for global companies, facilities and limited editions. Levy feels that “the world is about people, not tables and chairs.”

Originally from Israel, he moved to Europe in 1988, and Levy currently works in Paris with his team of 20 designers and graphic artists as L Design. Under the vision of Levy and his partner, Pippo Lionni, the firm is also dedicated to brand identity, packaging, labeling, exhibition, interior design.

 

– You are “a Tel Aviv born designer living in Paris”… How have these two cities influenced your way of being and of working?

Cities are a great influence on one’s daily life…..it is a cultural identity that influences one’s being and moral codes. Tel Aviv is about survival and therefore one has to be inventive to survive and can be reborn at any moment. Rawness and upfront ideas along with the beauty of simplicity creates a connection of industrial poetry.

 

– As a creator of objects, what is one object that you cannot do without?

Shoes.

 

– At home, what is your favorite corner of the house?

I do not like corners…. I also do not see the house this way…. for me the house is a place of many gates that open in different moments…these gates are to Love, family, spiritual experiences and more.

 

– We know surfing is one of your main passions. What is a place that a true surf-lover should not miss?

It is not about surf-loving but about being a surfer….what we do not want to miss is a good morning smooth swell where ever it is.

 

– Something in this world that scares you?

Stupidity and ignorance.

 

– What do you do when you want to treat yourself?

I work and I surf.

 

– You have traveled to many places. Is there a  travel destination in your wish list?

Yes, my wife’s heart.

 

– Do you have a favorite piece of clothing?

Underwear.

 

– What is your most vivid and touching memory?

Life.

 

– Okay just one more question. In your mind, what is the most iconic piece of design?

The wheel.

 

Levy has worked with Vibia on several collections including Rhythm, Wireflow, and Fold.