Vetri is thrilled to announce our representation of Portland-based Esque Studio. Andi Kovel and Justin Parker, Esque Studio co-founders and designers, began Esque as an homage to the heritage and tradition of glassblowing. Drawing inspiration from the awe-inspiring properties of glass, they reimagine the functionality and form with their signature punk-lux style. You may recognize Andi from Season 2 of the Netflix show Blown Away!
Internationally acclaimed and celebrated, Andi Kovel and Justin Parker create and define Esque Studio as a collaboration rooted in the innovative exploration of glass. The two met in Brooklyn at Urban Glass in the late 90’s where they worked as artists for hire to elite fine artists and designers. Their shared vision and aspiration gave birth to Esque, with the concept of creating modern, functional, concept-based glassware aimed at the design industry and away from the pedestal. For the past 20+ years the duo have led a movement in glass by shattering the rules and redefining notions of craft and material associated with their medium.
Andi Kovel is celebrated internationally as an influential product designer, glass blower, and site-specific installation artist. Andi’s background in sculpture, accessory design, and art theory uniquely rank her as one of the most original trend-setting glass artists working today. Her work has been exhibited in museums, galleries and periodicals internationally. Her trademark punk-lux style draws outside of the lines of traditional expectations while highlighting her fascination with pure form, function and color in space. Kovel’s avant-garde innovations of form and process have won her wide acclaim as a tastemaker of modern design.
Justin Parker is recognized as one of the United States’ most skilled and sought-after Gaffers. A protégé glass artist, he is most known for his unusual knowledge and mastery of a board range of styles and techniques. Justin apprenticed under Italian glass maestros in his twenties, with a focus on glass sculpture and blown forms, and applies this history and skill set to each of his signature designs. Parker is most recognized for pushing material limitations, larger than life vessels, physical daring and original methods in presenting hand blown glass as functional design.