Care for your teeth, care for your planet. That’s the idea behind the new special Recycled edition of Curaprox toothbrushes designed by Alice Hoffmann, who devoted the central motif to the rainforest and its numerous inhabitants – representing a critical part of our planet’s ecosystem. Learn more about Alice’s journey, her design inspiration, and how industrial waste can be turned into new products.
What was your path to becoming a designer?
Since my youth I’ve been certain about pursuing a career in advertising. I followed that path consistently, first by studying design and securing my initial position in a prestigious German agency. Then I moved to Barcelona, where I delved deeper into the realm of design. Over several years in the advertising industry, my journey led me to illustration, where I now find myself fortunate to have a job that brings me joy.
What projects do you usually work on?
I work on a wide variety of projects, spanning advertising, packaging and pattern design, logo and brand identity creation, children’s books and more. Every new project shows me how many different ways art can be applied in design today, with each carrying its unique set of tasks and challenges.
What inspires you?
Nature, my children, museums and travelling.
What’s the idea behind your special edition of toothbrushes?
I strongly believe that anything we can do to protect the environment should be done. The Curaprox Recycled edition sets a good example; it encourages us to recycle and reuse whenever possible. It’s not a groundbreaking idea, but rather a gentle, daily reminder to take care of our planet.
Out of all the environmental concerns, I have chosen to focus on the issue of the rainforests, which, along with their numerous inhabitants, remain a critical part of our planet’s ecosystem and require protection. The rainforests are the lungs of our planet – witnessing their decline is disheartening.
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How did your collaboration with Curaprox start?
I have known and used Curaprox toothbrushes before. I saw other artists’ designs on display in pharmacies, so when Curaprox approached me to design the new special edition I was really excited.
How did you choose the colours?
Since the colours of the toothbrushes have been defined by production, I aimed to create a packaging that matched the colours of the rainforest. The zig-zag pattern on the bristles represents a snake wrapping itself around a tree, hugging the heads of the toothbrushes.
What was the biggest challenge of this design?
Normally I only work with strong and expressive colours. This time I had to consider lighter, more “muted” colours, and combine them accordingly.
How would you like people to think about your toothbrush?
The design should be fun, motivating people to brush their teeth and connect with the wilderness of the jungle to cherish its purpose.
Any dream project you’d like to work on?
A big empty wall that I could draw a mural on.
Alice Hoffmann is a German artist based in Switzerland. From her studio in the heart of Zürich, Bureau Alice, she pursues what she loves most – creating minimalistic, colourful and bold designs.
With her background in advertising, Bureau Alice brings a bold and vibrant artistic style to her illustrations, gained from collaborating with renowned international brands.
Follow her work at @bureau_alice.
