Sergio Matos’ work is truly one of a kind; a sight that you won’t see anywhere else. Each piece he designs starts off as an idea and is then handcrafted into something magnificently intricate. Matos coalesces his design to be equal parts functional and fashionable, while showcasing his master craftsmanship. Each piece is its own experience which is why Sergio is incredibly respected in artisan communities. His unique designs have been awarded national and international accolades, along with collaborations that strengthen his Brazilian design background. Introducing this week’s Maker Monday, Sergio Matos.
The Biboca Swing crafted and designed by Sergio Matos. While you hang, you become entranced in its relaxing and cozy cocoon of woven sailors cord.
Andrew Joseph: If you could be any animal in the world, what animal would you be and why?
Sergio Matos: If I could be any animal in the world I would be a stray dog. Because I believe that they´re not so dependent on their owners.
Andrew: What makes you angry?
Sergio: One thing that makes me angry is someone that underestimates me.
Andrew: What is the last book you read?
Sergio: The last book I have read is, “O Encontro Marcado de Fernando Sabino.”
Andrew: What is something you hope to see trending in design in the future?
Sergio: I hope to see companies thinking more about the social and environmental trends in the future.
Andrew: If you could guest star on any TV show -on or off air- what show would you guest star in?
Sergio: I would love to be interviewed by Ellen DeGeneres.
Andrew: If you could live in any home in a movie or television series, what would it be?
Sergio: If I could live in any home in a tv series, it would definitely be the Friends apartment.
Hanging here is the Cariri Swing accompanied by bright yellow pillows. It is inspired by furniture made from mass produced sailor’s cord, enforcing its nautical roots.
Andrew: What’s the weirdest thing a client has ever asked you?
Sergio: The weirdest thing a client has ever asked of me is, if I would make a cemetery piece of furniture. Yes, I did.
Andrew: What are your ideal weekend plans?
Sergio: Travel somewhere I don’t know.
Andrew: What would be the name of your debut album?
Sergio: My Gypsy Life.
Andrew: What was your first job?
Sergio: My first job was a minor apprentice at Banco do Brasil.
Andrew: Are you a good cook? If so, what’s your specialty?
Sergio: Chicken with rice (Galinhada).
Andrew: Do you get your eight hours a night? – what is your schedule like?
Sergio: I sleep between 5 and 6 hours a night. I start working at 10 AM, and prefer to design at night.
This bright red piece of art is also highly functional as a chair, named the Acaú Chair. It contains a steel base and red mesh from cotton thread that invokes the beauty of oceanic nature.
Andrew: What would your dream project or dream client be right now?
Sergio: Working with artisans in Africa.
Andrew: What are you most proud of?
Sergio: I am most proud of my mother’s bravery.
Andrew: What would you want your obituary to say?
Sergio: “Minha vida é andar por esse país, pra ver se um dia descanso feliz.”
Andrew: How would you define your work in three words?
Sergio: Travel, culture, and people.
Andrew: What’s inspiring you in life (in the industry) right now?
Sergio: The artisanal production of the indigenous communities of Amazonas.
Andrew: A book that everyone should read?
Sergio: “Eat, Pray, Love.”
Andrew: What would you like to be remembered for?
Sergio: My work done in the communities.
Andrew Joseph is a regular contributing editor for ASPIRE DESIGN AND HOME magazine. See more of his work here.
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