Designer Christian Maidankine shares his inspirations, his venture into leatherwork, and the importance of crafting for the everyday.

How would you describe your profession and your practice?

I’m interested in the condition of the everyday. It can be pretty ordinary, but it captures all of our habits, routines, and rituals. Most of my work is related to how we carry things outside of our home, usually with bags, and how we use them to occupy space. Putting down your bag, pulling out your sketchbook and pen, and making the decision to stay for a little while. I love this process, and it’s one that we are constantly doing in our day.

I aim to carefully craft for the everyday, whether it be spaces we inhabit or the artifacts we keep within them.

Has your work changed over the course of your career?

Over this year my work has expanded beyond just leather bags to the greater picture of objects and activities which help us stay present. Things that we can be really focused on and make us pay attention to where we are, what we are doing, and who we are.

What was your “eureka!” moment that made you realize that art/design was the route you wanted to take?

I’ve always loved drawing and making things, and architecture and craft have both been extremely satisfying for this desire. A few years ago I decided I wanted a new tote bag and while I was looking to buy one I realized I could just make one – my leatherwork began from there.

Which designers or artists inspire you and why?

Much of my inspiration is from architecture – spaces which are carefully designed and meant for meaningful inhabitation. Odami and gh3 are two Toronto practices which engage the everyday in different ways but result in beautiful and compelling architecture.

I have always loved the still-life paintings of Willem Kalf, appearing as if we have interrupted an intimate moment. By composing and framing everyday elements, Kalf turns individually ordinary things into something beyond themselves.

What is the name of the DesignTO Project you’re exhibiting in and what is the name of the piece you are sharing?

I will be participating in a few exhibitions at DesignTO this year. My window installation ‘Artifacts of Place‘ will explore objects which we can use to occupy our spaces, whether permanently or temporarily. I am also a part of ‘Surface Impressions’, the prototype exhibition at the Umbra store, as well as a group exhibition that will be held at Harbourfront Centre.

How long have you been involved with DesignTO?

This is my second year participating in DesignTO and I can’t wait for it. Preparing for last year was super exciting but also pretty nerve-wracking as it was really the first time I displayed any of my personal work to the public. While preparing for this year I’m getting a very similar mix of emotions.

As DesignTO gets ready to celebrate its 15th birthday, why do you think it is important to the creative community, here as well as abroad?

It’s incredibly important for local artists to be able to not only display their work but have a platform for discussion. Many people are aware of artists through social media and what’s in popular culture, but there is less knowledge of those who are in their own community. Showcasing Toronto as a major centre of art and culture really helps those who create here.

‘Artifacts of Place‘ and ‘Surface Impressions’ are just two of over 100 free window installations, exhibitions and events at the 2025 DesignTO Festival, January 24 – February 2, 2025. Visit the Festival Schedule to learn about these projects and more.