Cape Town-based creative studio MUTI is known for its bold illustrations and unique visual storytelling. Their latest project, Glazed & Confused, takes that creativity in a new direction—bringing illustrated artwork into the digital world as conceptual ceramic vessels. We checked in with Brad Hodgskiss, Co-Founder & Creative Director of MUTI to find out more…
The project started as an internal experiment, giving MUTI’s illustrators a chance to explore new techniques. “We regularly create studio briefs that allow us to experiment with ideas and creative styles,” explains Brad. Using 3D rendering, the team developed a vibrant series of ceramic-inspired designs, each reflecting individual artistic styles while maintaining a cohesive look.
Unlike traditional ceramics, these pieces exist purely in digital form, allowing for endless creative freedom. The project not only pushes MUTI’s artistic boundaries but also serves as a showcase of their versatility—something that could open new opportunities in the future.
We spoke to the MUTI team to find out more about the thinking behind Glazed & Confused.
10and5: What inspired the idea for Glazed & Confused?
Brad: We regularly create studio briefs that allow us to experiment with ideas and creative styles. This project grew out of one of those experiments, where we used our 3D rendering and illustration skills to bring our artwork to life in the digital realm.
10and5: What do you hope to achieve from this project?
Brad: We’re aiming to give our current clients a fresh perspective on what the studio can do—something that could spark exciting new opportunities down the line. Plus, by showcasing the work in the right places (like your website 😉), we hope to draw in new clients that like what we’ve created.
10and5: Will it be exhibited?
Brad: The vases exist purely in the digital realm as 3D renders, so while they won’t make it to a physical exhibition, their showcase shines brightest online.
10and5: What is the value of doing projects like this when you’re an agency mostly involved in brand work?
Brad: For us, the real value is in the freedom to experiment, create, and explore new ideas without any constraints. It’s our chance to flex our creative muscles. Plus, it helps us keep our audience engaged, show off our versatility, and stay top of mind for future opportunities.
10and5: How do you think the Glazed & Confused project reflects Studio MUTI’s creative identity?
Brad: It’s a great reflection of the diversity within our studio, which is a big part of what defines our creative identity. On top of that, we’re always experimenting and pushing ourselves to create and explore our styles, and this project is a perfect example of that. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of surprising yourself with a new style or approach—and having that effort recognised and appreciated by the rest of the team makes it even better.
While Glazed & Confused may not exist in the real world, it captures the spirit of creativity and innovation that defines MUTI. By merging illustration and 3D design, the studio continues to expand its artistic possibilities—one experiment at a time.
* Visit studiomuti.co.za to see the full range or to check out some of their other work.
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