Matroska Key
ABOUT THE PRODUCT
design: Maxim Velčovský, 2008
material: cooking glass (simax)
dimensions: 11 x 20 cm
An inconspicuous symbol of the Russian invasion. The Trojan horse of Central Europe, which is a constant reminder that it is never clear how many soldiers are hiding in one tank. A commentary on the fact that the overt post-revolutionary Russian invasion is now arguably more powerful than the 'covert' presence of Russian troops during the previous regime. The glass version, that is, the pure form without decorative surface, adds the relativity of absolute transparency to the play of meanings.
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
Jakub Berdych Karpelis is the co-founder of Qubus studio. Since its inception in 2002, he has been working mainly with conceptual art in traditional Czech materials such as glass and porcelain. He is credited with the brand's expansion beyond the Czech Republic and the creation of a number of works, complete collections and products now significant for the Qubus brand. Among the most famous projects is the reconstruction of the interior of the Church of St. Bartholomew in Chodovice. His works can be seen not only in Czech, but also in world famous galleries and collections such as Moss Gallery New York or Mint Gallery London and others. In addition to conceptual and product design, he also works in the field of interior design, architecture and free art. Since 2008 he has been the art director of the gallery store Dox by Qubus at the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art in Prague.
ABOUT THE BRAND
The Qubus brand was founded in 2002 by Jakub Berdych Karpelis together with Maxim Velčovský and in the same year they opened the eponymous brick-and-mortar design shop in Prague's Old Town as the first ever design shop in the Czech Republic. The main idea and motivation of Qubus is to design, produce and present Czech contemporary and conceptual design with wit and unconventionality. A number of now iconic design products, collections and works have been created under the Qubus brand and the Qubus brand, the first on the market at the time, has become one of the most popular design studios in the Czech Republic in its 20 years of operation. Qubus products are characterized by their humour and search for new meanings and contexts.
Qubus designers most often work with traditional Czech materials - glass or porcelain, and their hallmark is a humorous play with morphology and function. Central European sarcasm meets commentary on the world around us in Qubus products. They respond to lifestyles, mirror prejudices and reflect cultural and social themes and trends.
Among the products in the Qubus portfolio, we find luxury and everyday pieces that shape taste and push its boundaries. In addition to conceptual and product design, the studio also executes interior design, architecture and free art projects by Jakub Berdych Karpelis and other artists it invites to collaborate.
