Rising Stars: Meet Dax Savage

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dax Savage.

Dax, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I moved to Los Angeles 25 years ago right as a new creative art and design renaissance began transforming the city into the inspiring place we know and love today. I initially moved here to pursue a modeling and acting career which led to me getting involved in the Circus Arts.

Shortly after Y2K, me and a group of close friends started our own circus company called Midnight Sun. We booked some great jobs for big names such as Nike, Red Bull, Sony, Paramount, and Cirque du Soleil and we had a blast doing it. I made all my own costumes and unique handmade jewelry to go with our shows.

That visibility resulted in so many requests from others for custom jewelry that it organically turned into a business and a recognizable brand. I’ve even had my pieces worn by some of the biggest names in entertainment over the years. Something I’m not sure would have happened if I was not based in LA because this city is so much about connections, word of mouth, and being available when opportunity knocks.

I still make handmade jewelry and sell it on my site as well as doing custom pieces for movies including for an upcoming Marvel film.

Then about eight years ago, I was inspired to explore producing products for home and commercial design applications. I started with basket weaving, incorporating antlers, wood, and other organic materials into the mix. With the help of an Interior Designer friend, my handmade “art baskets” quickly became sought-after pieces by clients and collectors around the world. This became another exciting extension of my brand which has now expanded into custom sculptural basket light fixtures that have ended up in popular restaurants, bakeries, and cafe’s all over Los Angeles and in a beautiful villa in Aspen, Colorado.

And finally, because I like to keep things interesting, I’m also a Professional Licensed Barber. I really enjoy the technical and artistic aspects of this trade as well as the social interaction that comes with it. I currently have a private barbershop in my loft and showroom where I take a creative design approach to keeping my clients looking sharp and handsome.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it’s never been a smooth road, haha! It’s really tough to survive as an Independent Artist. Every day I have to face the economic realities of life while still trying to maintain the inspiration that fuels the creative process. Some days that’s a huge challenge. So I have to just keep reminding myself that the obstacles ARE the path to my artistic freedom.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m an Artist, Craftsman, Maker, Designer, and a Barber. I’ve been called a Dax of all Trades many times because I do so many things. I like that! I specialize in handmade jewelry, baskets, sculpture, lighting design, cutting hair and beards and men’s grooming in general.

I’m probably most known for my jewelry but my baskets and lights are getting more recognition lately because it’s what I have been focusing on.

As a Barber, I’m known for my attention to detail and my SICK fades, haha!

I think what sets me apart from others is that I can do so many different things by combining all the skills I’ve learned over the years. I’m proud of that.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Honestly, I’m a one-man show. I am the team behind my brand. But I do get a lot of support and inspiration from all my smart and creative friends. I’m really grateful for them. And of course, none of my business endeavors would even be possible without the support of all my incredible customers and clients over the years. Big thanks to them 100%!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.daxsavage.com
• Instagram: @daxsavage

Image Credits
All images were taken by Dax Savage