Originals by HYPEND - Q&A With Kaarle Hurtig
To continue the community-driven series called Originals by Hypend with Saucony Originals that features some of the people that make Helsinki move, we sat down with the multi-talented Kaarle Hurtig for a photoshoot and a brief Q&A interview. Kaarle is a man with many hats but lately he has been best known around the city for his Youtube series called Keskusteluohjelma.
In your own words, who are you and what do you do?
I am Kaarle, a young man’s mind in a body that’s getting middle-aged. Problem solver and storyteller by profession, curious by hobby.
How did you begin your career?
I grew up with a brother and friends who were interested in visual things, photography, drawing, etc. Started as a school kid doing graphic design in the mid 90s on early interwebs and later art directing magazines. Skateboarding and culture work mostly. Then later I realized I was more tuned with the design part and less with the ‘graphic’. Went around agencies for a few years just to realize I didn’t align with the way the industry works, and started my own company more than 10 years ago. The company has made money by journalism for hire, photography work, and consulting. Consult comes from ‘con’ and ‘insult’.
Who or what inspires your work?
Usually, I get most excited when I see common things done in a new way, or a story told in a way I haven’t seen before. I just finished the Watchmen comic and was really inspired by the singular voice the team of Moore-Gibbons-Higgins had. Documentaristic photography, music that doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel but still creates new soundscapes (amapiano!), Wintergatan problem solving on Youtube, clothing repairs.
What’s your favorite form of art to express yourself?
Speaking, I’m doing a talk show on Youtube. Also, photography.
Where do you draw inspiration from for your personal style?
I try to look for clothing that has been around in a similar style for a long time. Time-tested and proven basics. Repairs and second hand. Japanese workwear, IVY-styles, loose fits, and morals.
How would you describe your style?
Valuable, not expensive. Style, not fashion. Timeless, not retro.
Favorite song and artist of all time?
Massive Attack – ‘Teardrop’.
Thoughts about Saucony?
The test of time is the ultimate test. And oh, it’s pronounced ‘sock a knee’.
Hypend classic: Best food joint in Helsinki?
Way Bakery for breakfast, Cafe Gastro Kallio for lunch, and The Bull & The Firm for dinner.
Saucony
Jazz 81 in Forest/Grey
Check out Kaarle on Instagram: