Lars Rank - Danish Christmas Traditions With a Modern Twist
Introducing Lars Rank - Classic Christmas with a Modern Twist
In one of central Copenhagen's most historic neighborhoods, Christianshavn, where cozy meets hip we find the shop and small studio of Danish ceramicist Lars Rank. We catch him in the middle of trimming the edge of a bowl, the just poured porcelain clay just starting to set in the mold. It is the end of October and Lars is busy getting his shop ready for the Christmas season. We chat about his popular ceramic Christmas ornaments and Danish Christmas traditions.
How would you describe your design style?
I prefer to keep my designs simple with clean lines, but at the same time there has to be an element of surprise
What inspired you to create your beautiful Christmas decorations?
I have been making the Christmas decorations since 2004, so it’s hard to remember what the inspiration was. I actually think it was the technique that I use which gave me the idea. The ornaments are made in liquid porcelain clay using a kind of squeeze bottle. It is sort of like drawing with the clay. The movement has to be quick to ensure the form is resilient and alive.
What is your favorite Danish Christmas tradition?
I really enjoy the Christmas tradition of decorating with light both indoors and out. It makes the dark winter nights so much more cozy. Another Christmas tradition that I also like, and this one is probably more Danish, is the traditional Christmas dessert Ris-a-la-Mande with cherry sauce
Which ornament is your favourite?
It is difficult to pick a favorite. But the Christmas heart, which is designed around the classic Danish braided paper heart is probably the one that comes closest to a favorite. The braided heart is such a classic traditional Danish Christmas decoration, so it is interesting to reinterpret and create a new version of it.
Which ornament is the most popular?
The white Christmas ornaments have always been the most popular and the star is the most popular shape. I imagine that is because white is classic and works year after year. The star was the first shape I designed and the shape that can be played with the most while still being recognizable. I think people like that.
In this short video you can see Lars crafting one of his handmade angel ornament