Today we’d like to introduce you to Hailee Tran
Hi Hailee, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have been interested in the arts ever since I was younger, whether viewing or making them. I went through many phases growing up such as photoshopping, video editing, scrapbooking; the list goes on. When I started applying to colleges, I was very into filming and editing videos so I chose to be a film major rather than art since I could not envision my future in the art realm. Being in the film industry felt more reasonable than being an artist.
During my time as a film major, the people and the environment did not feel as welcoming as I hoped it to. I slowly started losing interest in the field and began questioning my career choice in the film industry. I had a lot of time to reflect since the COVID-19 pandemic occurred in my sophomore year. During quarantine, I also made a lot of art to keep my mind at ease. I talked to friends and family members about my career. These conversations made me realize that I have always wanted to share my passion for art and help others express themselves through art-making. It took me a year to decide to switch career paths and pursue being an art teacher as it aligns with my passions.
Since then, I have taken art and education classes to fulfill my major. Changing majors was the right decision as I am much happier and supported in this field. I’ve also created an Instagram to post all the art I’ve made in class and in my free time. Last November, I posted a class project of mine regarding the topic of fear called “Just One” which showcased a giant crochet Marlboro box and cigarettes. Soon enough, the video went massively viral on TikTok and Instagram, garnering more than 222 million views on Instagram. This experience changed my life as it reiterated that people enjoyed my work as an artist. I eventually applied to Brea Gallery’s Annual “Made in California” Juried Exhibition and I got in! In April, “Just One” was showcased in my first-ever exhibition in a public gallery. This whole experience was surreal as I used to think that my art would never be displayed in such a manner, let alone this early in my career.
Fast forward to now, I continue to create art and am working to get my Teaching Credential at California State University, Fullerton!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has generally been a smooth road with a few waves throughout. I’ve had a lot of internal struggles to get to where I am now with switching careers and all. My biggest struggle has always been imposter syndrome, feeling that I am not good enough compared to the people around me. This became apparent when I was a film major. Many film students I met were passionate about their work, making films that tackled complex topics. My interest in film was nowhere near their passion and I did not think I was creative enough to make good films. When I eventually switched career paths, these thoughts and ideas continued to linger but with other art students instead. I took a few art classes and struggled with comparing my art and style to the people around me.
I slowly overcame these internal struggles due to my time in my “Teaching Creativity & Studio Art” class. Being surrounded by many artists with differing backgrounds, I realized that my style was distinct due to my background and experiences. The projects in the class strengthened my confidence as an artist as they allowed me to be truly creative which I did not experience in my other classes due to rules and guidelines. When presenting my pieces, many students enjoyed and supported my work. The environment in the art realm compared to film was drastically different in terms of support and community.
Although I have overcome most of the imposter syndrome, I still struggle with comparison from time to time which I think is inevitable.
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 am a multimedia artist, but as of right now, I’ve been mainly focusing on crocheting. I think that is what I am most known for anyway. I enjoy crocheting as I can manipulate yarn into certain shapes and figures. I do not necessarily have a specific focus on my art, but I think it always relates to people my age, Gen Z, which also sets me apart from other artists. I make art that centers around what I am interested in such as smoking, pop culture, etc. such as “Just One.” I am most known for the giant crochet Marlboro box. “Just One” is a project that I am most proud of because of the opportunities it has given me: the virality on social media, the people I’ve met, my first public exhibition in a gallery, and this interview! This piece has genuinely changed my life and I am eternally grateful for it.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Talk to everyone and anyone when you get the chance, especially people who are in a similar realm as you!!
I have talked to many artists and art teachers around my age and those older who have helped and advised me greatly since I switched career paths. Everyone has been supportive of me and my art, which has been so refreshing compared to my time as a film major. It was through an art teacher friend who suggested I apply for the MICA exhibition. If it were not for her, it would’ve been a while till I dipped my toes into showcasing my art to the public! Through this experience, I have met other artists who have given me much insight into this career.
This advice has worked immensely for me and would for whoever is reading this!
Pricing:
- “It’s Lit” (2023) – $400 at Irvine Fine Arts Center
- Giant crochet cigs – $80 on Etsy
- Giant crochet lighters – $275 on Etsy
- Crochet cig keychains – $25 on Etsy
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/easyreeves
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/easyreeves/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@easyreeves
