THE ABSURD COLLECTIVE

Welcome to the world of the Absurd Collective – a unique collaboration of creative designers and artists dedicated to the essence of ZOEPPRITZ1828. Our collective embodies the values of heritage, quality and passion in a way that is as natural as it is inspiring.

The outstanding thing about our work is our unwavering dynamism. We never stand still. Instead, we constantly bring fresh innovation to our creative environment. We honor heritage and cleverly combine it with the modern zeitgeist. The result is a fascinating mosaic of tradition and contemporary vision.

 

“Step inside and experience the captivating world of Absurd Collective, where tradition meets innovation and every creation tells a story.”

Q&A: Interview Hikmet Sugör

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Hikmet Sugör, 48, became known for his sneaker store Solebox in Berlin in the early 2000s, establishing himself as the King of Taste & Trade in the industry. As an influencer with almost 80,000 followers on Instagram, he occupies pole position on the market like no other and has collaborated as a designer and consultant with more than sixty labels and product brands over the last 20 years.

I have incorporated my cultural background into the carpet motif. What many people may not know is that the patterns on such oriental rugs always have a symbolism and meaning. On the motif you can see the surrounding wave for water (Turkish: SU) and the motifs in the center stand for eyes and sight (Turkish: GÖR). Both together make up my surname: SUGÖR. Many thanks to Atelier Kamp for realizing my idea.

To be honest, I have achieved the most important thing for me. Through my work as one of the pioneers of sneaker culture, I have contributed to the spirit of the times in the sense of a manifestation. And that’s only through my passion and love for the sneaker product.

Stay true to yourself and do what you like and not what you think others might like.

HERITAGE

As I grew up between two cultures, I naturally try to incorporate both cultures and the interfaces into my work.

The “Social Sneaker” in collaboration with “One Warm Winter” was one of the projects that confirmed my passion for my work. A project without any commercial intention. We worked together on a shoe that was only achievable through social work.

The two are not necessarily mutually exclusive. Quite the opposite. It is possible to generate innovation and progress from tradition, and one that is meaningful and enduring.

Often with a spark of wit without pointing the finger. Rather subtle and not immediately visible, but memorable.

QUALITY

Quality is subjective and is in the eye of the beholder. My aim is always to design my product in such a way that it meets my quality standards. Fortunately, my customers also see my standards as standard.

Unfortunately, this happens. The question is how to act in such a situation. That’s when you realize whether a supplier/partner is being fair or only thinking of themselves.

A product is only finished when it meets my requirements, regardless of cost and time. Quality always has top priority.

Good work must be fairly remunerated. Saving here means saving at the wrong end. Regardless of pay, the working environment is of course just as important. One can theoretically balance the other, but for the best result, both should be sought.

PASSION

The creative process is what fills me with the most passion. From the first drawing to the finished product.

The “Social Sneaker” in collaboration with “One Warm Winter” was one of the projects that confirmed my passion for my work. A project without any commercial intention. We worked together on a shoe that was only achievable through social work.

I’ve been doing this for over 30 years and of course I’ve also had a lot of setbacks and motivation dampeners. But every new project is always a new blank sheet of paper. If you manage to transform the negative energy of defeats into positive energy and learned experience, then you will always get back on track.

Passion is comparable to a fire. You can use it to ignite others if you are on fire for the idea. And if the environment can be “ignited”, then it is the right environment for great projects/ideas.

ABOUT THE COLLABORATION

Here you can find the other Interviews: