We recently connected with Oleg Rozenfeld and have shared our conversation below.

Oleg, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

More Than a Trend: Creating Timeless Treasures

My journey as a creator has been an adventure, to say the least. In the early days, the financial rewards weren’t exactly flowing. But even then, I held a deep-seated belief: the things I create should transcend fleeting trends. They should be timeless, unique, and as individual as the people who will ultimately use them.

My focus has never been on chasing the latest fad. Instead, I pour my passion into crafting pieces with enduring impact. I believe that a truly great product should not only stand the test of time but also spark joy for years – even decades – to come.

With every single item I develop, I’m driven by the conviction that I’m creating something truly exceptional, something that will be cherished for generations. It’s about more than just objects; it’s about crafting heirlooms, pieces imbued with meaning and designed to last.

Oleg, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

For those just discovering my work, I’m a deeply passionate creator dedicated to crafting truly timeless, entirely unique pieces that easily transcend fleeting trends. My journey began with a simple conviction: the objects we surround ourselves with should be as individual as we are.

While my background is rooted in IT, my approach is authentically driven by a desire to create pieces that tell a story. I specialize in bespoke leather goods; wallets, belts, briefcases, handbags and premium watch straps for swiss timepieces. Each creation is imbued with a sense of meaning, thoughtfully designed to become a cherished heirloom rather than just another object.

What sets my work apart is the emphasis on enduring quality and highly personalized design. I passionately believe in slow craftsmanship, meticulously taking the time to source the finest materials and skillfully employ techniques that ensure longevity. Whether it’s a custom wallet or clutch, my aim is to create pieces that will be treasured for generations.

I’m proud of the connection I personally forge with my clients. Truly understanding their vision and expertly translating it into a tangible piece that deeply resonates with their soul is incredibly rewarding. It’s far more than just a transaction; it’s a collaboration.

If there’s one thing I want potential clients/followers to know, it’s this: I firmly believe that surrounding yourself with objects you truly love profoundly enriches your life. My work is an invitation to fully embrace enduring beauty, to wisely invest in pieces that authentically reflect your unique story and bring you joy for years to come.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

I am going to answer this question with a short story:

The train rattled through a landscape scarred by neglect. Factories stood empty, their windows like vacant eyes. This was the town of Grimhaven, a place where creativity had long been forgotten, replaced by the relentless pursuit of profit. But even in this desolate landscape, a seed of change was taking root.

It began with a whisper, a rumor of a hidden garden tucked away in the heart of the abandoned industrial zone. Curiosity led a few brave souls to its rusted gates, where they found an oasis of color and life. Artists, banished to the fringes of society, had reclaimed this forgotten corner, transforming it into a haven of creativity.

Word spread like wildfire. Soon, Grimhaven’s residents, starved of beauty and joy, were drawn to the garden’s vibrant energy. They found themselves captivated by the sculptures crafted from discarded metal, the murals bursting with color on the factory walls, and the music that echoed through the once silent streets.

A transformation began. People started seeing the world with new eyes, noticing the potential for beauty in unexpected places. The town council, witnessing this shift, realized that neglecting the arts had impoverished their community in more ways than one.

Inspired by the artists’ resilience, they took action:

– Schools reopened their art rooms: dusty easels and forgotten instruments were resurrected, filling classrooms with the sounds of creation.
– Empty storefronts became galleries: showcasing the work of local artists, inviting passersby to engage with their imaginations.
– The old factories, once symbols of decay, were repurposed as artist studios: their cavernous spaces echoing with the clang of metal, the swirl of paintbrushes, and the murmur of collaboration.

Grimhaven was reborn. The once gray landscape bloomed with color and life. The economy, fueled by a newfound appreciation for art and design, began to thrive. Most importantly, the people of Grimhaven rediscovered a sense of community, united by a shared appreciation for the power of creativity.

One day, a young girl stood before a vibrant mural depicting the town’s transformation. “How did this happen?” she asked an elderly artist, her eyes wide with wonder.

The artist smiled, his wrinkles etched with the stories of Grimhaven’s journey. “It happened because we remembered that art is not a luxury, but a necessity,” he replied. “It’s the language of the soul, the key to unlocking our shared humanity. And when we support our artists, we support the very heart of our community.”

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My mission is my battle against fast fashion and it has reached its apex. And I hope it matters to everyone as much as it matters to me. From the garment workers toiling in unsafe conditions to the consumers overwhelmed by mountains of disposable clothing. Here’s why we need to confront this industry and how we can spark change:

Exploitation of Workers: The industry often relies on unethical labor practices, with workers (mostly women) in developing countries facing low wages, unsafe conditions, and long hours. Fast fashion perpetuates a system of inequality and injustice.  
T
hrowaway Culture: The constant churn of trends encourages a culture of disposability, where clothes are seen as fleeting commodities rather than valued possessions. This leads to excessive consumption, overflowing landfills, and a disconnect from the true cost of our clothing.  

Loss of Creativity and Craftsmanship: Fast fashion prioritizes speed and profit over quality and artistry. It devalues the skills of artisans and designers, homogenizes style, and stifles true creativity.

How I personally contribute to transforming the industry:

Conscious Consumption: The most powerful weapon against fast fashion is our purchasing power. Choose quality over quantity, invest in durable pieces, and support brands that prioritize ethical and sustainable practices.  

Demand Transparency: Hold brands accountable for their supply chains and production practices. Ask for more informaitn, do your own research or support legislation that promotes transparency and ethical standards in the fashion industry.  

Repair and Upcycle: Extend the life of your clothes by repairing and upcycling them. Learn basic sewing skills, get creative with alterations, and embrace the beauty of imperfection.  

Support Sustainable Brands: Seek out brands that prioritize ethical production, fair wages, and environmentally friendly materials.  

Educate and Advocate: Spread awareness about the impacts of fast fashion. Talk to your friends and family, share information on social media, and support organizations working to create a more sustainable and just fashion industry.  

The fight against fast fashion is a collective effort. By changing our consumption habits, demanding transparency, and supporting ethical alternatives, we can transform this industry and create a future where fashion is a force for good, not exploitation and environmental destruction.

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