Robin Sprong

WORDS: Remy Raitt

Who would have guessed that a photograph of a driven-over puff adder (minus the puff) could result in an overseas order of 3,000 rolls of wallpaper bearing the image of the squashed snake’s skin? Well, Robin Sprong made it happen.

The well-known photographer and founder of the Exposure Gallery and Lomography shop is now busying himself with surface design under his brand “Robin Sprong”. Right now, he’s calling on talented photographers and designers to join him in creating hot designs for wall and surface coverings.

“Young designers aren’t taken seriously,” Robin says. “No one takes them on. People would rather import work or use creatives with a name and experience. My mission is to develop South African designers and help them showcase their work though Robinsprong.com,” he continues.

Already receiving attention from overseas buyers, the website is a platform for artists and designers to make a name for themselves while also offering their photographs or designs to clients to turn into wallpaper or surface coverings.

After his first big wallpaper project for the Daddy Long Legs art hotel in 2004, Robin has worked with some of South Africa’s biggest companies, helping them make their offices places in which people want to work. Robin has also completed residential work, working closely with John Jacob Interiors and 89 on Bree.

Anything is possible with surface design. According to Robin, the client just needs to decide on the imagery they wish to achieve. This can either be photographed or designed by Robin or one of the local designers working under his brand.

The company offers a range of services – from inception and completion –  capturing the desired visuals, printing and installation. But Robin says digital printing in South Africa is tough, as it’s so much more costly here, and the right equipment is hard to come by. Yet he chooses to use local printers, which supports the local market and lessens his carbon footprint.

The designer has bigger plans to increase his offering. Soon he will not just be selling the ‘background’ wallpapers and coverings, but also ‘foreground’ items like designer furniture. He has already aligned himself with well-known designers Fable, Gregor Jenkin, Haldane Martin, Porky Hefer and Ode.co.za.

It’s just a matter of time before the Robin Sprong brand encompasses decor and design solutions on many levels, by both well-known and up-and-coming creatives. With buyers overseas showing interest and commissioning projects, Robin hopes to see a more committed interest from the local market too.

More information: www.robinsprong.com, rasprong@iafrica.com