Hypeart Visits: From Pitch to Pottery, Lev Rosenbush’s Artistic Take on Football

Hypeart Visits: From Pitch to Pottery, Lev Rosenbush's Artistic Take on Football

As a creative individual who appreciates both art and sports, I find a striking resemblance between the two practices. Both require a clear mind, thoughtful planning, and intentional execution – qualities that were instilled in me through my experiences in football, guided by my dad’s wisdom.

Fewer than two college athletes go on to play professionally. It’s hard for those who devote their whole life to sports to accept this reality, often finding themselves transitioning into a completely new career path out of necessity. In an interview with Hypeart, Lev Rosenbush admits, “I didn’t want to face it at first.

Originally from Brooklyn and now residing in London, Rosenbush nurtured dreams of emulating renowned American goalkeeper Tim Howard. After studying at Kenyon College in Ohio, he found himself unable to advance further. He lamented, “It was disheartening because I devoted so much effort to training and reached a point where I believed I was playing at a top level, but my circumstances at school didn’t allow for that progression.

Fortunately for Rosenbush, blocking shots wasn’t his sole destiny in life. In retrospect, this creative soul, who referred to himself as a “designer and storyteller,” found tranquility sculpting on the potter’s wheel during breaks, often lingering past class hours at his university studio. It was only then that he realized he couldn’t envision a life devoid of art. Rosenbush eventually chose ceramic design as his major at London’s Central Saint Martins, a decision that allowed him to refine his skills and immerse himself deeper into the passion for British football culture.

Through Studio Halftime, Rosenbush expanded beyond football to celebrate his passion for “The Beautiful Game.” His goal was to change the way people perceive sports fans. Over the past three years, he’s designed espresso mugs inspired by Serie A and small collections that cater to both avid soccer fans and art lovers alike, who can appreciate these pieces in their homes.

In a fitting turn of events, Rosenbush was selected by adidas to design an array of colossal sculptures, which he describes as a “tribute to the enchanting sport of football and the ideas of triumph linked with athletics, interpreted through sculpture.” Entitled Formations, these artworks will be exhibited at Indra Studio in East London from September 15 to 21. In preparation for his upcoming exhibition, Hypeart paid a visit to Rosenbush’s studio in Camberwell to delve into his journey from football to the arts, the similarities between the two realms, and what he plans to unveil now that he has discovered his second vocation.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by HypeArt (@hypeart)

“It’s been the most rewarding thing. I’m not hanging up the boots.”

When did art gain an equal interest as soccer?

At 14, I began pottery during my school years in Manhattan. This was a significant period as I also played soccer intensely. Pottery served as a supporting role to my soccer focus, which took priority until just before college. I never fathomed that I’d delve into fine art, particularly ceramic design, in London. However, my art teacher perplexedly questioned me: “You attend my classes twice daily and persuaded the principal to allow you an extra three hours every day here. Why wouldn’t you wish to study art?” He merely posed a question: “Picture your day without it, and consider if that’s truly what you desire.

After making an insightful discovery, I decided to focus on art as a secondary subject. This led me to spend time perfecting pottery at Kenyan College in Ohio during my studies. When I took a year off, everything fell into place for me. Since then, I’ve been teaching pottery at Studio Pottery London and Urban Potterz. The convenience of living near the studio has enabled me to explore more creative avenues in my work, as opposed to having a lengthy commute.

So when did the pivot happen full-time?

For a while, I refused to acknowledge certain truths. It was disheartening because I had put in so much effort and reached a point where I felt my game was at a competitive level. However, things didn’t quite work out at school as I had hoped. There was a goalkeeper who was a few years senior. The studio served as a sanctuary after training sessions. I see myself more as a designer and storyteller rather than just a visual artist.

I was in denial for my football career not being exactly what I wanted it to be. I didn’t really have that realization, per se, which is what has made this so incredible and seamless, because I believe my work exists just as much in the sport and football world, as the art and design world. It’s been the most rewarding thing. I’m not hanging up the boots.

In essence, my grandfather was a true craftsman of ceramics. He collaborated with Midwestern firms to create artistic pieces for household items, including digital prints and so forth. Meanwhile, my grandmother managed the operational aspects of the business.

Hypeart Visits: From Pitch to Pottery, Lev Rosenbush's Artistic Take on Football

Going back a little further, can you remember your early entrance into art?

In my family, there’s a longstanding passion for creativity and an appreciation for its value. During my childhood, many of the people at my school had some form of language-related challenges. As for myself, I was diagnosed with ADHD, which means I learn in a unique way. However, through sports, I developed a strong work ethic and a knack for getting tasks completed effectively – a skill that has been instrumental in my life.

During my gap year, I might spend the night working at the studio until 2 a.m., then teach the following day. Along the way, several individuals have served as inspiration for me. New York is truly remarkable and exciting, but it’s not an ideal location if you’re trying to find your footing. There’s always something happening there that could be a distraction. Instead, by staying in London after graduation, I was able to concentrate on my work.

How would you define your practice now that you’re working as a full-time artist?

My strengths lie in developing unique products and sharing unheard narratives through inventive design, rather than replicating existing work. This is where I flourish the most, whether it’s within different realms of design or the fusion of art and sports. Currently, my work revolves around football and ceramics, but I aspire to expand into diverse mediums and themes to share more stories and unite unexpected individuals. Studio Halftime represents this very spirit.

From a sporting standpoint, I view my practice as a personal brand for other brands. My goal is to become recognized within this industry as someone who can craft compelling narratives and produce distinctive items. Right now, football doesn’t have an elegant presence in the home. I aim to transform that perception by suggesting that sports could be enjoyed at home just like a Loewe candle or similar product does. This shift will undoubtedly reshape people’s idea of what a sports enthusiast looks like.

The perception of a footballer or fan is a simple-minded person who doesn’t care about art or having nice things. I think there’s such a range though and it’s about opening up the conversation of what a fan and athlete looks like. There’s such a personal element to homeware that is attached to one’s individuality. Someones home is telling about who they are. I’m not trying to replace what’s out there, instead I’m just trying to add to it.

“It’s a moment to re-strategize, plan and imagine new possibilities.”

Could you share some details about the project you’re currently engaged with at the studio, along with any work connected to the FA Cup that you’ve completed?

I’m planning to make copies, each featuring unique designs reminiscent of the tournament’s history, similar to my previous work with Red Star. The FA Cup design is a starting point, but I aim to add my own touch. It’s more of a personal endeavor, serving as an outlet for my ideas. I have all the necessary resources at hand; I just need to bring them to life. Each tier represents different stages of success.

How about the similarities between the practice of art-making and playing sports?

It’s natural for me to think carefully, be deliberate, and maintain a clear focus. This is something I picked up, both from personal experiences in football and sports, as well as from my father’s influence.

Outside of sports, what sorts of projects would you like to explore?

My primary focus lies in art and creative direction, be it for films or photographs. Essentially, I’m drawn to the concept of storytelling through various mediums that catch my interest.

What has been the greatest advice you’ve gotten?

Can you take us back to the genesis of Studio Halftime and the early projects you worked on?

Halftime Ceramics” originated from my college thesis, which served as an extensive blueprint for what I’m currently engaged in. My fascination with tea culture and functional-ware sparked the idea, and considering the connection between tea breaks during sports events led to the name ‘Halftime’. In the 90s and early 2000s, you would often find tea ladies at football clubs, who’d provide a brief respite for players with a cup of tea. This was a distinctly British custom. As time passed, these tea ladies were gradually phased out, often by older, kind-hearted women who were the soul of those clubs.

I found the name “Halftime” appealing on its own, but it also carries a literal meaning that resonates with me. It signifies a pause or break in the action where one can reassess, strategize, and envision fresh opportunities.

I’d like to give a nod to Dennis McConkey, it’s been a while since we last spoke, but his advice often crosses my mind. Upon graduating college, my father and step-mother gave me a list of insights they gained post-graduation. From time to time, I revisit this list as a reminder of life lessons that resonate with my current activities. My dad always aspired to be a journalist, and he’s fulfilling that dream now after dedicating numerous years to it. He currently works as a journalist for The Wall Street Journal, leading a team that focuses on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

My mother, step-mother, and father are constantly busy at work, but they serve as great inspirations for me. My sister attends a performing arts school in New York called LaGuardia, and she’s focused on living life happily through artistic pursuits. It’s fascinating to see the blend of inspiration coming from my family. Moreover, my mother, who also attended LaGuardia, has always encouraged me to be myself genuinely.

Images from the studio by Shawn Ghassemitari/Hypeart, landscape photographs by Sam Nicklin, and portfolio images provided by Lev Rosenbush.

Read More