Frame founder Erik Torstensson’s wish list

Living between New York City, East Hampton and the English countryside, the Swedish photographer and Frame co-founder shares his latest obsessions.

Erik Torstensson. Picture: Alex Anttch

Which interior design piece do you covet?

Any piece ever created by Eileen Gray, Jean-Michel Frank, George Jouve or Paul Dupré-Lafon.

What is your latest tech obsession?

I’ve delved deeply into learning everything I can about AI. In my line of work, it feels like having a creative superpower. I am of the feeling it’s essential to embrace the forward march of evolution, not fear the new.

Who is your favourite up-and-coming artist?

New York artist Reginald Sylvester II. Luckily, I have one of his larger canvases in my house.

Piece by Eileen Gray. Picture: Aram

Reginald Sylvester II, Courtesy the artist and Maximillian William, London. Picture: Robert Glowacki

Latest wellness pursuit you’re considering?

Like many men in their forties, I’m supposed to engage in cold plunges. However, I truly detest cold water.

What is your optimal breakfast?

I prefer to skip breakfast. I work more efficiently when I’m hungry and feel lighter. Traditional breakfast foods have never been to my liking. I would happily devour a Thai curry at 8am. Unfortunately, my family [including partner Natalie Massenet] has little understanding for this preference.

Can you describe an ideal Sunday morning?

Waking up to a drawing from my son Jet. Next, I’ll take our vintage Mercedes 280 3.5 to the gym or tennis, [then] I’ll spend around 45 minutes on my laptop preparing for the following week. It means I can dedicate the rest of Sunday to time with my son.

Latest book on your reading pile?

Due to my ADHD, I’ve always struggled with reading longer works. However the last book was Skuggland [Shadowland] by my dear friend Marcus Dunberg.

Happy place: Lake Champfer and Silvaplana, Engadin, Switzerland

What are your top travel destinations?

I have never been to Japan and I would love to revisit Australia. Years ago, I did a fashion shoot and we stayed at an eco resort and met incredible people. I’ve always felt a connection between Swedes and Australians.

What’s your favourite drink?

A dry vodka martini with two olives – always.

Which personal style icon do you wish you had met?

Richard Avedon, one of the greatest photographers of all time but also one of the best-dressed men.

What’s your next fashion purchase?

I have my eye on a Frame leather jacket – not too thick, not too thin. It seems like the perfect addition to my wardrobe.

Where is your happy place?

St Moritz. I adore skiing. It’s a dream of mine to own a chalet there and spend more time in the mountains.

This story appears in the October issue of WISH Magazine.