COCO x Roman Klonek
Portrait by Eva Sieben
COCO Chocolatier’s latest collaboration welcomes Roman Klonek, a contemporary artist celebrated for his mastery of woodcut printing. With a style that blends vintage comics, avant-garde propaganda, and Eastern European folklore, Klonek’s work is a bold, colourful fusion of the traditional and the unexpected. His creations feature an eccentric cast of hybrid creatures, humans, and animals, all brought to life through his meticulous craftsmanship.
Klonek’s vibrant aesthetic takes centre stage in COCO’s latest artistic collection, featuring his signature illustrations on two standout chocolate bars: the Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate and Carrot Cake Chocolate. Carrot Cake Chocolate, made with 40% cacao milk chocolate, delivers a smooth and creamy texture with a delightful balance of sweetness. Notes of spiced carrot and a hint of vanilla evoke the comforting essence of freshly baked cake, while the crunch of dehydrated carrot adds an enjoyable contrast. Meanwhile, the Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate bar introduces a deep cocoa aroma with subtle caramelised sweetness. Crafted with rich dark chocolate, it harmonises silky caramel flavours with occasional bursts of salt, creating a satisfying balance between sweet and savoury.
Born in Kattowitz, Poland, and now based in Düsseldorf, Germany, Klonek has exhibited his work in Los Angeles, London, Paris, and São Paulo, with solo shows in Berlin and Hong Kong. His pieces have even made their way into the Museum of Contemporary Art in Yinchuan, China.
An Early Love for Illustration
Klonek’s journey into the art world began in childhood, fuelled by a deep love for comics and cartoons. ’I was the kid who couldn’t stop drawing,’ he recalls. This passion led him to study graphic design in Düsseldorf, where he honed his skills in drawing, poster design, and woodcut techniques. After graduating, he co-founded a gallery in Düsseldorf’s creative district, where he and his friends exhibited their own works. The space became a lively hub of artistic exchange, paving the way for Klonek’s growing presence in the international art scene.
A Studio of Creativity
Today, Klonek shares a studio with two fellow artists in Düsseldorf. However, his creative process isn’t confined to just one space. ’I often sketch on my sofa,’ he admits, highlighting the fluid nature of his artistic practice. Inspiration, for him, comes when he’s most at ease-whether it’s during a leisurely breakfast, a thought-provoking conversation, or a peaceful walk. ’Relaxation is key,’ he says. ’That’s when my thoughts have the space to move.’ The Process Behind the Art Klonek’s creative method begins with daily sketching, an intuitive process that allows unexpected ideas to emerge over time. ’I like to rediscover forgotten doodles weeks later,’ he explains. He then refines these sketches into vector illustrations, using a vast collection of modular elements-almost like a Lego set-to build unique characters and compositions. ’I can swap out eyes, hairstyles, noses, and mouths until I find something truly original,’ he adds.
COCO Collaboration: A Perfect Fit
When COCO Chocolatier reached out to Klonek for a collaboration, he was thrilled. ’They found me,’ he says with a smile. The partnership resulted in a range of chocolate bars adorned with his signature vibrant and whimsical designs. The artwork wasn’t created with a specific theme in mind but instead emerged from his love for unusual characters. Among the COCO x Roman Klonek collection, his favourite design features the ’Doya Dance' a playful, energetic composition that perfectly encapsulates his artistic ethos. He is particularly pleased to see his artwork come to life on the Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate and Carrot Cake Chocolate bars, where their distinctive flavours are as bold as their packaging. The rich, cocoa-infused dark chocolate pairs seamlessly with the caramel’s subtle sweetness and sea salt contrast, while the milk chocolate creation offers a nostalgic nod to spiced carrot cake with a smooth, indulgent finish. As for past COCO collaborations, he admires the work of David Bray, another artist who has left his mark on the brand’s creative legacy.
COCO Chocolatier continues to celebrate the intersection of art and chocolate, and the Roman Klonek collection is a testament to that vision. Explore the full range and experience the fusion of flavour and artistry firsthand.
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