Kristie's Kenwood Mixer

Kristie’s mother was given the Kenwood mixer for her 21st birthday by her parents. It was passed onto Kristie when she set up her first home. As a result of metal fatigue the hinge broke and the object has been stored in Kristie’s garage for the past five years. When the object was submitted to this project, Object Therapy curator Guy Keulemans contacted the Delonghi (now owner of Kenwood) to discuss the possibility of repair. There was no response.

With the knowledge that Kristie had since replaced the broken mixer with a working model, repairer Rohan Nicol’s approach was not limited by functional concerns. Instead, he wanted to entomb the memories embedded in the object. Reminiscent of an archaeological artifact, he has locked the object in cement, fixing in time the often-invisible bonds between family members.

Design Repairer: Rohan Nicol

Canberra based, Rohan is the Head of Gold and Silversmithing and convener of the Design Arts Degree program at the Australian National University, School of Art. He is an active craftsman, academic and curator. His recent work ties domesticity and domestic consumption to global experience and the various challenges and crises we face globally. He has also identified the value of intellectual property generated by the creative sector, to the Australian innovation system. He regularly exhibits and presents at major venues and events in Australia and internationally. His work is held in many collections including the Powerhouse Museum and the National Gallery of Australia.

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Kristie's Kenwood Mixer. Repaired by Rohan Nicol. Photos by Lee Grant. Image copyright Hotel Hotel.