Artist and designer Nik Bentel is a one-of-a-kind creative deviser of products and performances that encourage viewers to reimagine the everyday objects in their lives. After receiving his undergraduate degree from the Brown-RISD Dual Degree program and Columbia University’s Master of Architecture program, Bentel went after the things that he already loved: exciting, strange, and engaging experiences that use alternate forms of product design, advertising, and performance art.
“In 2017, when I graduated from undergrad, I dreamed of running my own studio,” Bentel shares. “This switch was more forced upon me when I abruptly quit my design job at the time and hoped for the best, trial by fire! A lot of mistakes were made along the way, but I am still here.” Since then, his studio has been commissioned by brands to generate objects that aren’t just utilitarian – they tell a story.
Today, Nik Bentel Studio is a team of four based in New York City that design and release limited-edition performative products that are often the result of collaborations. So far, that’s included everything from furniture to handbags to toys and more.
“I use a small sketchbook a lot, so much so that we designed the perfect quick-notation sketchbook that fits in your pocket. It’s perfectly square, so you can draw from every angle. I try to draw purposefully bad sketches. If I can’t sketch an idea down in under a minute or two, it’s probably an idea that is too confusing,” Bentel says.
If he were to step away from product and performance design, Bentel divulges that sculpture would be next on his list of interests. “In our tech-heavy world, it would be a blessing to have a career where I don’t have to stare at a screen to practice. But not only that, it’s something my father did, and he passed down his love of sculpting to me. I would love to really pick it up again one day.” Being able to step away from tech seemingly coincides with his attempts to flip the switch between work and home. “I try – and I use ‘try’ lightly – to leave all of my computers and work items at work. As things become more and more, I admit the line does become a bit blurred.”
Today, Nik Bentel joins us for Friday Five!
1. Tyler McGillivary X Daniele Castellano Shirt
I absolutely love this shirt. My girlfriend got it for me as a present, and I wear it everywhere. Beautiful surreal graphics – amazing work, Tyler and Daniele! I have been following Tyler’s work for some time now, and I am always in awe of the beautiful projects she has created over the years.
Photo: Gab Bois
2. Gab Bois’ Pencil Skirt
I love Gab Bois’ Pencil Skirt! It’s such an amazing mix of functionality and originality. I was introduced to Gab Bois’ work by my friend Yuliya Veligurskaya, founder of Studio Cult, who collaborated with her and made a beautiful pair of sunglasses inspired by film strips. Amazing work from these two!
Photo: CW & T
3. CW & T’s Time Since Launch
I love this project by CW & T, it’s a truly unique timepiece like no other. You start the timer by pulling a chain – a tangible act to start the count – forever memorializing the moment. People have been designing timepieces for centuries, but this design is truly original, like nothing I have ever seen before. CW & T also have a bunch of other amazing projects of impeccable caliber!
4. 1968: Radical Italian Furniture by Maurizio Cattelan & Pieropaolo Ferrari
This book was gifted to me by my undergraduate professors, Paolo Cardini and Charlie Cannon. The visuals and Toilet Paper Mag in general have been a huge inspiration to me and my practice. Headed by Maurizio Cattelan and Pieropaolo Ferrari, the emphasis on graphics and world-building that Toilet Paper Mag creates has continuously stood out to me, even in a world filled with AI dupes.
Photo: Roe Ethridge
5. Layla Gohar, Gohar.world
I love Laila’s work, especially for the impeccable worlds that she builds with each of her lookbooks and products. It is not only impressive but inspirational, especially not just photographing the products but also being able to sell them. I have ordered a few things from her website, and the packaging and overall experience were extremely refreshing.
Work by Nik Bentel:
Wiggle Pipe \\\ Photo: Nik Bentel
The Wiggle Pipe – A limited-edition pipe designed to reimagine a typical pipe. Made from teacup porcelain.
Untitled Folder Wallet \\\ Photo: Nik Bentel
The Untitled Folder Wallet – A wallet that takes inspiration from our everyday digital environment.
Moon Chalk \\\ Photo: Nik Bentel
Moon Chalk – Chalk toys designed to inspire original mark making.
Loopy Chair \\\ Photo: Nik Bentel
Loopy Chair – A chair designed using the manufacturing method of the traditional loopy bike rack.
Bloom Candle \\\ Photo: Nik Bentel
Bloom Candle – A candelabra whose design is inspired by blooming flowers. Released as a limited edition run in 2019.
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