What are you most excited about for 2021?
Being able to physically show people my latest collection of amazing Bubble chairs, and my new timepiece collections going into manufacture. I also plan to expand my research into materials that are sympathetic to the environment such as using recycled plastics from the ocean for parts of the timepieces. The world is being destroyed and I want to do more as a designer to use good quality, waste material in luxury product design and art. That is massively important to me and should be to every designer out there.
Where are you most hoping to travel once restrictions are lifted?
Mexico – both to visit new manufacturers and suppliers and for time in the mountains where I can be happy amongst the beauty of nature and enjoy the thrill of speed and danger on my dirt bike.
Do you have anything new on the horizon?
I’m working an exciting new Youtube channel to share the work of the amazing people with whom I’ve worked. Please subscribe! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVjVW0_vT43RLh9UpDVkuig
What is inspiring you right now?
Saving the planet with design is top of my inspiration list right now, so I’m spending time on learning and researching what is needed to do just that.
What would you like to achieve by end of 2021?
To have a much higher percentage of eco-friendly and recyclable, good quality materials used within my work.
What would I find in your studio right now?
Dirt bikes for fun and escaping the craziness of the world around me – and camera kit for making new content for the TV channel. There are also lots of unfinished artworks that don’t feel so important right now. For someone who makes timepieces, I feel as though I never had less time for the important creative work!
What is your general mood?
I’d say it’s actually very positive but it is also hugely energy-consuming, so I’m staying fit as I can, eating well, training hard, cycling lots and enjoying the amazing natural terrains I have in which to go surfing, cycling and dirt biking in the magnificent landscape of southern California.
If you could time travel, what would you say to the You of January 2020?
Stay strong, nurture friends and embrace the Givers’ Gain – my current motto. If you help others, they will help you. It really works and it’s never been more important to support those around you.
Read more about Ben Rousseau and view works exclusive to London Connoisseur.
