Name: Lewis Hazen
Where do you live? Norfolk, VA
Why do you create?
I create to express things in my head that I can’t verbally communicate at times. I’ve been creating for as long as I can remember and don’t see myself stopping anytime soon. There’s something really satisfying about making something only you can see in your head.
How do you bring art into your everyday?
I usually start the day doodling ideas as I drink my coffee before anyone else is up. It’s a time I really value and starts my day on a positive and productive note. Beyond creating almost daily I like to surround myself with art in my home. I have a small but growing collection from some of my favorite artists that I love to admire as I walk by.
What gets you super excited about life?
My future with my boyfriend and dog, since we are always up to some adventure!
Do you have a favorite artist? If so, who and why?
I have a couple of favorite artists with very different styles. Some of those being James Jean, Monica Ramos, and Rob Sato. They all have unique conceptual ideas that I really admire.
What’s your favorite place to get inspired?
I’m always jotting down ideas on my phone when I go for a walk. It’s the perfect way to clear your head and think rather than scrolling Pinterest for inspiration mindlessly. Travel is also a great source of inspiration for me. It’s important to see multiple facets of life and how people live so you can draw from a larger library of ideas.
What inspired the design for your Standard Wax Label?
The illustration depicts a guy running into the night. I thought this would be a fun way to represent how our days, especially now, are blurring together and our yearn to break free from the monotony.
What’s something unique about your work that people won’t see anywhere else?
My multi-tone style is the driving force for my work. Additionally, I would say I try to speak to topics such as LGBTQ+ rights in a way that is personal to me.
Favorite City?
San Francisco holds a special place in my heart from the nearly 4 years I lived there. It sounds a little cliche but it’s where we fell in love and adopted our dog, Lexi.
Favorite Restaurant?
Ristorante Parma in the Marina of San Francisco. The lasagna will blow your mind and the people who work there could not be friendlier.
Favorite Museum? I really enjoyed the Tate Modern in London.