Here at Slowdown Studio we love collaborating with emerging and established artists from across the globe. We recently had the opportunity to chat with Shay Shaked, the artist behind the new Este Throw Blanket.
Shay's work is built on simple, organic lines inspired by the natural world, paired back to the point of minimalism. 
Who do you think is the most exciting emerging creative in your city?
The most exciting emerging artist working in my city today is Ran As, who is also a close
friend of mine. I deeply admire his art and the unmistakable signature he brings to every
piece. His practice is rooted in street art, a medium that can often feel raw and chaotic,
yet there is something remarkable about the way he approaches form and colour.
Together with the distinctive engravings he incorporates into his work, his visual
language creates an effect that is both powerful and entirely his own.
Where are your favourite places to go in your city?
My favourite places in Tel Aviv are Bialik Square, the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, and the Old
City of Jaffa, especially the walk up through its ancient streets towards the church at the
top. Each of these places holds a different kind of beauty and reflects a unique side of
the city.
What advice would you give to a younger version of yourself when you were starting out in art?
The advice I would give to my younger self is to keep growing and developing as much
as possible, without being distracted by outside noise. I would tell myself to stay focused
on building my own artistic language, to trust my instincts, and above all, to remain true
to who I am.
Este Throw Blanket
What inspired your design for this latest blanket design?
The inspiration for this design came from my own exploration of femininity, while also
touching on themes that feel deeply personal to me. Vivie portrays a woman who does
not aspire to be perfect, yet is perfect in her own way. She is feminine, daring, and
unapologetically herself. Much of her strength lies in her vibrant yellow colour, which
conveys optimism and positivity while giving her a powerful and unmistakable
presence.
What's your favorite way to slow down?
My favourite way to slow down is simply to make space for the things that bring me joy.
For me, that means creating, travelling, collecting memories, and continuing to look
forward. It is about learning to appreciate the process and the journey, rather than
focusing only on the final destination. Slowing down also means pausing to recognise
that we live in a world of constant change, and remembering the importance of seeing
your own uniqueness and the value you bring without losing sight of either.
What are you listening to in your studio at the moment?
My musical taste is very eclectic. I often listen to French chanson singers such as
Vanessa Paradis and Carla Bruni. I have also been enjoying Ibrahim Maalouf’s
reinterpretations of Dalida’s songs, particularly his collaboration with Melody Gardot.
Alongside French music, I love flamenco and Spanish music. Rosario and Rosalía are
two artists I enjoy listening to while I work.
What's the most memorable book you've read in the last few years?
One of the most memorable books I have encountered in recent years is, perhaps
surprisingly, Justine by the Marquis de Sade, which I am still making my way through.
What has been the happiest/most rewarding moment of your art career?
The happiest and most rewarding moment of my artistic career was receiving the email
from Daphné telling me that my work had been selected for the collaboration between
Artsper and Slowdown Studio.
How does living in your city influence your work? Is there anything about your city that has defined how or what you create?
Living in Tel Aviv has a strong influence on my work. It is a city of contrasts, where
Bauhaus architecture meets vibrant street life, and a sense of chaos exists alongside
the calmness of the sea. The Mediterranean light, the bold colours, and the energy of
the streets often find their way into my visual language.
What are you most excited/looking forward to this year?
This year, I am most excited to see my collaboration with Artsper and Slowdown
Studio come to life. Watching Vivie evolve from an illustration into a woven piece that
can become part of people’s homes feels incredibly meaningful to me. Beyond the
launch, I am looking forward to continuing to develop my artistic language, exploring
new creative possibilities, and allowing my work to reach new places and connect
with new people.
Instagram: @shayshaked__
