
On this episode of Clever podcast, Amy Devers talks to industrial designer and founding partner of Barber Osgerby, Jay Osgerby. He grew up in a small town in England, with a close-knit multi-generational family and the backdrop of his grandparents’ experiences of WWII. Jay’s childhood was filled with making things, inspired by his Swiss ancestors’ stories of watch and camera making. His parents were incredibly resourceful, whether it was opening a shop together or repurposing curtains when the local cinema closed. This pioneering spirit is something that Jay has carried with him throughout his career – from his studies at RCA, where he met long-time business partner and friend Ed Barber, to designing the 2012 Olympic Torch to revolutionizing how people work remotely with Soft Work seating. Now, 25+ years into design, Jay reveals the triumphs and tragedies that lined his path and forged his character with candor, humor, and an unflagging optimism that burns bright and steady like the inextinguishable flame of the Olympic Torch. Listen:
Portrait © Tom Ziora for Vitra
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