Lucky 8 Collection by Kostas Metaxas
Each of them is limited to 288 pieces
The idea behind the “skeleton series” of writing instruments, starting with the “Lucky 8” was to transform the usually solid barrel and cap of a fountain or rollerball pen, into a three dimensional sculpture which allow to explore new and interesting ways of aesthetically dealing with this very personal object. The Lucky 8 is also part of a subseries of the “Skeleton Pen” project, called “Casino” which can become a collection based on playing card themes.
The Lucky 8 is the first, because 8 is the also the symbol for infinity and therefore, very lucky in many cultures. In this case, it’s the lucky 8 of spades – why spades ? why not! The challenge during the creative process was to navigate the actual mechanisms and mechanics of the pen. In the case of the fountain pen, one can also observe the amount of ink in the “converter”, adding to the 3D sculpture. A benefit of the construction is that it feels comfortable and secure “in the hand” as well as cool, since unlike a solid pen, it “breathes” in your hand.
Kostas Metaxas, Designer
An elegant and contemporary collection that combines the unique know-how of Maison S.T. Dupont and the design of Kostas Metaxas symbolizing the “Art of New Luxury”. It consists of a writing instrument and lighter with yellow gold and palladium finishes.
Drawn to the shapes and textures of old master painters and sculpture since he was a teenager, about the same time, he was introduced to Hi Fi equipment and fell in love with the art of music reproduction. To him, art and design is “visual music”. Unable to afford expensive Hi Fi equipment, he taught himself electrical engineering and started producing his own, which turned into his first business. Hungry for knowledge about art and design, Metaxas started a magazine so he could interview great artists and designers worldwide, learn from them, and feed his own creativity.
For Metaxas, designing feels euphoric. He enjoys working with various materials – metal, glass, ceramic, plastic – and subverting technology, like using dental techniques to create jewelry and watches. Both the traditional manufacturing methods and the latest software – or their combination – work great for him. He thinks of the big picture first, then the details and the best methods to create them. And all of it in an environmentally friendly way.
He strongly believes in balance with a twist, in the fight between the chaos and order, and a little intrigue thrown in. A bit of theatre, and a bit of utility – there needs to be substance, it should be useful, and it should also invoke experimenting and playfulness with infinite possibilities.
Some advice from Metaxas to young designers: “Research the breathtaking work of others, and wait until your idea exceeds that standard, otherwise it has no reason to exist. Do your absolute best. If you’re not motivated, don’t do it. Give life to an object which never existed before”.
