Hasef, Backyard BBQ, 24 x 36 in, 2021

"I believe art has the power to inspire, provoke, and transform; my role as an artist is to create work that challenges my audience."

Artwork Archive's Featured Artist, Hasef, is a multi-disciplinary artist who uses a variety of mediums to explore themes of identity, memory, and the human experience. 

His work introduces viewers to a world of conceptual art often avoided by society and serves as a reflection of his personal journey, as well as a commentary on that society. Through his use of vibrant colors, bold lines, and striking imagery, Hasef seeks to create a visual language that transcends words and connects with viewers on a deeper level. 

The artist holds a B.A. in Sociology & Art, a certification in Art & Marketing, and an MFA in Studio Art. In addition to working as an artist in Los Angeles, Hasef is passionate about educating both young artists and art novices. 

Whether through his paintings, sculptures, or installations, Hasef's work is a celebration of the human spirit and a testament to the power of creativity to uplift and inspire. By sharing his unique vision with the world, Hasef hopes to contribute to more vibrant Black American memories and cultural landscapes globally.

Artwork Archive had the chance to chat with Hasef about how his creative process, the advice he has for other artists, and how Artwork Archive helps him manage his studio and art career! 

You can see more of his work on Discovery and learn more about his art practice below.

Hasef, The Cut, 24 x 18 in, 2023

Can you walk us through your creative process? How do you begin a piece, and how do you know it’s complete? 

My first step is creating the right atmosphere and setting the vibe. I start by putting on some good music because it helps set the tone and gets me into the creative flow. 

Once the music is playing, I lay out all my tools and materials. This includes my brushes, pastels, flocking, paints, canvas, and any other necessary items. Having everything organized and within reach makes the process smoother. 

I then begin by mixing the medium for the background color. This step involves selecting the base colors and applying them to the canvas or panel. The background sets the stage for the entire piece, so I take my time to get it right. With the background ready, I move on to sketching out the design I want to create. This involves outlining the main elements and composition of the artwork on the canvas. The sketch serves as a roadmap for the process. I start drawing or painting over the sketch, adding layers of color and detail. While I have a plan, I remain open to changes and adjustments.

My creative process is dynamic, and sometimes the best ideas come spontaneously.

I allow the artwork to evolve naturally, and knowing when a piece is complete comes intuitively. While I do have a preliminary sketch, the artwork often takes on a life of its own during the process. My mind lets me know when the artwork feels right, and I get a sense of fulfillment and know when it's completed. 

 

Being a multidisciplinary artist, how do you decide which medium to use for a specific project, and what factors influence your choice?

The topic, drawing, or concept usually dictates which media I use or combine when creating art.

Lately, I've been testing different mediums like flocking, found materials, and pastels to see how they all work together. 

Hasef, The Filament Plant Series, 11 x 14 in, 2024. "'The Filament Series' Each plant representing a beautiful Black name."

Do you believe your background in Sociology helps inform and shape your approach to the concepts you portray in your pieces? 

Yes! People-watching is one of my favorite things to do, as well as quantitative research. It helps me come up with creative concepts and make things make sense.

I can visually see ideas of art in my head when reading or writing research ideas. 

 

In hindsight, what’s something you wish you knew before becoming a professional artist?

[Being a professional artist] can cost a lot of money. Also, throughout my career, I've learned to ask for what you want, and not to share everything with everyone. 

Hasef, Protective, 14 x 11 in, 2023, A series of various edition silkscreen pressed prints. This is 1 of 18 series of interstellar protective black hairstyles worn typically by people of Black/African descent.

What’s next for you? Are there any upcoming projects or exhibitions you’re particularly excited about?

Summer Break finally! I just wrapped my courses for the year, so I'll be relaxing and making new artwork for the next couple of months. 

I have an upcoming exhibit at WACO THEATER titled “groWTH” Opening is June 28th. It will be an installation of mixed media artworks.

I'm also waiting to hear back from art opportunities I applied to late last year and early this year.

Was there a specific instance or time you realized you needed something like Artwork Archive to inventory your artwork and manage your art career? 

I was tired of making labels for my art pieces and trying to figure out the correct sizing.

A friend told me about Artwork Archive and it forever changed my life.

I'm able to create labels for my artwork fast and swiftly. I can generate everything in emails for group exhibits and art-related opportunities. 

How do you use Artwork Archive on a daily basis? 

Inventory Reports help me keep track of the artwork I have in storage or out on loan. I can also send professional PDF lists to my clients so they can see the works I have available.

[Artwork Archive] just really helps me stay organized. 

Hasef, Her Hypherlic, 30 x 40 in, 2024

What advice would you give an artist who’s just starting out in their professional career?

Make as much art as possible—doesn't matter if it's good or bad. Just make as much as you can and write about all of them.

Apply to everything so people know that you exist. You never know who is sitting on a panel who can give you an opportunity that can change your art career forever.

Hasef, Black Man Be Purified, 11 x 17 in, 2021

Hasef uses Artwork Archive to keep track of his inventory, send his available artwork to potential clients, generate artwork labels, and a lot more.

You can make an online portfolio, catalog your artwork, and generate reports like inventory reports, tear sheets, and invoices in seconds with Artwork Archive. Take a look at Artwork Archive's free trial and start growing your art business.