A conversation about craftsmanship, natural materials, and their role in contemporary architecture. Artist and architect Ida Tinning discusses with architects Mathias Mentze and Alexander Ottenstein how biogenic materials and craft techniques are scaled up and transformed into architectural works.
The conversation is based on Ida Tinning's exhibition INTO THE REEDS, where reed thatch explores materiality, landscape, and humanity's relationship to nature. At the same time, Mentze and Ottenstein's project Laboratorium for Flet at Sophienholm is addressed, where weaving was examined across craft art and contemporary art. Both artists were also part of the jury for Charlottenborg Spring Exhibition 2026 with a focus on natural materials.
Central questions: What does the current interest in craftsmanship and natural materials tell us? Where is the boundary between craft art, sculpture, and architecture?
