Erik and Israel Nordin
In the heart of Detroit, at “The Art Factory”, amidst the relics of an industrial era, rise the majestic creations of the Nordin Brothers. Israel and Erik Nordin, products of this robust metropolis, are more than just artists; they are historians, visionaries, and custodians of Detroit's rich industrial legacy.
Having witnessed the city's trials, from the tremors of the great recession to the Detroit Bankruptcy, their resilience is mirrored in their artwork. With roots entrenched in the city's steel industry, courtesy of their father's steel company, the duo's creations strike a harmonious balance between the ruggedness of Detroit's industrial past and the refined contours of imaginative design. Their oeuvre, timeless in nature, leaves one pondering - is this a relic from antiquity or a harbinger of a futuristic landscape?
A graduate from the esteemed College for Creative Studies, Israel Nordin's designs revel in clean lines and elegant forms. His profound understanding of metalworking, glassblowing, and ceramics, combined with an uncanny ability to breathe new life into found objects, sets him apart. Whether it’s the rustic allure of wood, the cold sheen of metal, or the fragile transparency of glass, Israel's creations embody an ethos of minimalism, ensuring only the essential remains.
Contrastingly, Erik Nordin, an alumnus of the University of Michigan music school, creates visual symphonies. His art resonates with the harmonics of a melody, the cadence of a rhythm, and the silence between notes. With a musical journey that commenced at the tender age of four, Erik perceives art through the prismatic lens of music. His philosophy is a testament to the symbiotic relationship between art and music, with influences deeply rooted in the architecture of music and the perfection of nature.
Their collaboration is akin to an artistic dance. At times in perfect unison, their thoughts merging into a single, cohesive idea, and at others, a playful tug-of-war where the design takes precedence over individuality. This partnership, a confluence of two distinct artistic temperaments, results in masterpieces that are larger than life. Their renowned creations, such as the "Detroit Menorah" and "One world…Under Michigan Stars" on Belle Isle, an island park in Detroit, are a testament to their unparalleled synergy.
Press reviews have often hailed the brothers as "Detroit's Beacons of Artistic Resilience." The Nordin Brothers' legacy is not merely their monumental sculptures but the indomitable spirit of Detroit they encapsulate within them. As they endeavor to elevate their brand on a national pedestal, one can't help but be captivated by their story - a story of endurance, innovation, and the timeless allure of art.
In the ever-evolving tapestry of contemporary art, the Nordin Brothers are a force to be reckoned with, painting narratives in metal and glass, echoing the resilience of a city, and inspiring countless others along the way
Define: DETROIT DESIGN CENTER ®
The Design Center offers unique objects, not mass produced products that can be ordered from a catalog. Locally made, Detroit artists, world class.
Our 4000 sq ft Detroit Design Center Gallery and event space is located in the heart of midtown's shopping district at 4225 Third Street. Call for appointments.
email us at: erik@detroitdesigncenter.com
Erik Nordin: 313.330.2259
Israel Nordin: 313.330.2269
Israel Nordin and Erik Nordin discussing a new sculpture in Detroit, Michigan with Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and other business leaders at the dedication.
“I would like to humbly thank you for the development and creation of the LifeTrees for the new lobby at DMC Sinai Grace Hospital. The physicians, employees and patients will benefit from your ability to take the history of Sinai, Grace and Mount Carmel Hospitals to develop a beautiful sculpture that captured our heritage. In addition your worked within the space specifications that we provided and completed the sculpture in an expedited time frame.”
“We have found that by working with the Detroit Design Center, we have streamlined our process to create unique recognition for our donors. The Nordin Brothers have met our stringent needs including delivery, quality and design. When working with the Detroit Design Center, you have a team working for you at the top of their field. The Nordin’s effectively create world class pieces that connect with our facility and donors.”
“The Nordin’s push the envelope in their designs and consistently explore new territory in terms of weight, scale and vision. The quality of their work is in the top of their field and truly reflects Detroit”
“Erik and Israel’s creativity, vision, and skill shine through in their work. Their sensitivity, diligence and energy have made working with them a joy”
“The Detroit Design Center’s mantra - “Design is what matters” says all you need to know about the Nordin’s approach as artists. They care. They think about their designs and work until each design actually means something to the customer. Everything has purpose. Everything has a meaning”
