Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrew Haan.
Hi Andrew, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I am an artist, designer, and muralist based in Los Angeles, CA. Originally from Michigan, I have always been inspired to create. After graduating with a degree in graphic design, I spent a year working in marketing before deciding that the corporate cubicle wasn’t where I wanted to be. And after two years of grad school along with some serious questioning, I decided to ditch what I thought I needed to do in order to pursue my passion — ART.
My design style is very much inspired by my background in graphic design and architecture. Clean lines, pattern work, and geometric shapes are major themes in what I create. I am fascinated with line and the infinite potential it possesses. The end result is a direct representation of my thought process and how I see the world.
In recent years, I have found a passion for mural painting and other public art projects. Murals have a way of transforming spaces, beautifying communities, and promoting public engagement. With a combination of shapes, bold colors and patterns, I feel as though my art brings a sense of relatability and accessibility. In its abstraction, my mural work translates well to a public forum. In sharing a piece of me through my work, I hope to make a positive impact on someone’s day, even if it’s just for a moment.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
As far as my creative journey goes, I have been incredibly fortunate. That’s not to say there haven’t been ups and downs along the way, but I’ve been blessed with an incredible support system both at home and in creative spaces… After doing time in marketing and graphic design, I was left feeling uninspired, drained, and empty. I missed working with my hands. Painting. Building, Making. Creativity went from being an outlet of expression to something I would dread because I wasn’t creating in a way that felt meaningful or intentional. So in discovering what I didn’t want to do, I allowed myself to explore other avenues.
But things didn’t happen overnight. While working odd jobs to support myself, I was able to work through my own creative process. Discovering who I was as an artist outside of the corporate space. And after years of hard work, those “odd jobs” became more aligned with my creative desire. At this time, I was noticing other artist that I looked up to beginning to paint large-scale mural projects. It was something that sparked my curiosity, but didn’t know how to make that happen for myself. But one day, I was offered an opportunity to collaborate on a mural with a fellow artist from one of the group shows I participated in. Even before completing the mural, I knew this was what I was meant to do. I had found a creative outlet that inspired me on every level. That was back in 2017. Now fast forward to 2023, and I’m blessed to say that I’ve never been busier. With a full schedule of murals and other creative opportunities, I finally feel that I’ve hit my stride as an artist. Again, it didn’t happen overnight, and there are still times when I question myself as an artist. But I believe that good things come to those who work hard, show up as their authentic self, and come from a place to positivity. And I am fortunate to have found that for myself.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My design style is heavily inspired by my background in graphic design and architecture. Clean lines, patterns, and geometric shapes are major themes in what I create. As an artist, I am fascinated with lines and their infinite potential in art and design. With a combination of shapes, bold colours and patterns, I feel as though I bring a sense of relatability and accessibility to what I do. The result is a direct representation of my thought process and how I choose to see the world.
In recent years, I have found a passion for painting murals and other public art projects. Murals have a way of transforming spaces, beautifying communities, and promoting public engagement. In its abstraction, I feel as though my work translates well to a public forum. It brings a sense of fun and sophistication while also appealing to a broad audience. It’s in this expression that I feel most myself. And to be able to share that with others only inspires me to work harder.
What I think sets me apart from others is my attention to detail and professionalism. My ability to connect with a client and get an understanding of what they are looking for. And that’s also what I am most proud of. I see these as collaborative relationships. I am the artist, yes, but I want the client to be a part of the process as much as possible. To be able to work together in order to create something that both parties will love.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I think luck plays some role in your success, especially when you are exploring a career in the arts. But even more importantly, I thinking doing good work and being a kind person carries more influence. Coming from a place of authenticity and love can take you a long way. I believe that if you work hard, show kindness and put out a positive light, the universe will present opportunities for your success. You just have to be ready to accept them. By opening yourself up to life and showing up as yourself in whatever you do, success is just around the corner. That being said, it’s still hard work, but you are starting off on the right foot. Positive energy attracts positive energy and in that, the opportunities will come.
Actively living by this motto has allowed me to find success in a field that I love. I’ve made deep connections, found close friendships, and have been blessed with some incredible opportunities. What may start off as luck in the beginning will turn into a reputation that speaks for itself. With rewards that are deserved and warranted.
Pricing:
- Ranges from $20 – $40 a square foot depending on coverage, number of colors, and complexity of the design.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.andrewjhaan.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haanmade
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Haanmade/100051575003118/
