Bodil Jane was one of the original artists we worked with for our debut launch collection, with her incredibly popular Indian Garden puzzle. We knew from the get go that we wanted to collaborate on another product with her, and we’re thrilled she’s part of our most recent Spring Launch with a new 1000 piece puzzle: Poodle Society. We caught up with her and chatted about what puts her in the mood, ideal dinner parties, and what she’s been listening to lately.
What’s one thing we should know about you?
That I’m obsessed with food and meals. My days are always planned around lunch time, grocery shopping and early cooking. I hate cooking when I’m too hungry and I get overly worried when I don’t know when the next meal is or what it’s going to be.
What puts you in the mood to create?
Summer holiday! Having time and space, nice light and a change of scenery.
What’s your favorite rule or rule to break?
I’m very boring, I usually follow the rules. But as a freelancer I can really enjoy not working regular hours and spontaneously doing something else in the middle of the working day. Go to a museum for example. In my case that is also sort of work, but it feels like skipping class haha.
If you had to live in another place it would be…
Probably Copenhagen. I lived there for half a year during an exchange programme back in 2012. It’s a lot like Amsterdam and makes me feel like home. I could never live anywhere that’s not bike friendly.
Ideal dinner venue or menu?
Definitely home style dinner, lots of bowls, sharing flat breads and dips like artichoke & ricotta. Roasted eggplants, sweet potatoes and salads.
Who’s joining?
My boyfriend Pete, my 10 month old son Pilou (who I’ve turned into a foodie) , family and some close friends.
A few books for the coffee table?
I have many! But The Dog Encyclopedia must be one of my favourites. We have a toy poodle called Miso and I love spotting dogs in the streets and reading about them. It’s just such a good conversation piece, and the dog pictures are just gold. Also love Greco Disco by Luke Edward Hall and Ellsworth Kelly Works On Paper. I just love the simple look of the cover and everything inside. Vintage art books are just the best.
What's the last thing you listened to?
New record of my friend Sasha Renkas; an ambient pop album. Great work music.
First thing you’d grab in a fire?
Besides my babies: son Pilou and toy poodle Miso, I’d probably try to get my diaries and sketch books too. A fire in my studio is probably my worst nightmare. It would be so sad to lose everything I’ve created, all the product samples, sketches, books and old drawings. But then again, it would also set me free from all the stuff I’ve collected. Sometimes I wish I didn’t have so much stuff. I wish minimalism was my style, but I’m more the clutter-core kind of person.
What were you most grateful for when you woke up this morning?
Being able to do whatever I want on a Monday morning. Freelancer freedom is just the best thing. I grew up with freelancer parents, so I actually don’t know any better. I can’t imagine working a 9-5 job. I do get the perks, and I can be jealous of people having colleagues, Christmas dinners and a steady income. But I doubt if I’ll ever go for it.