Today we’d like to introduce you to Brie Hayden.
Brie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I began my professional artistic career when I joined Madame Tussauds in Washington, D.C. as a full-time artist. Working on the incredibly detailed wax figures at the museum enhanced my existing love of details and fostered an innate ability to capture realism. In early 2020 as the pandemic hit, I made the transition into an independent artist.
The high standards and level of accuracy required by Madame Tussauds inspired me to challenge myself to explore hyperrealism concepts in 2D. Drawn to the hyperrealistic style, I discovered the work of renowned artist CJ Hendry. Inspired by her story, I felt that with tenacity, I, too, could excel in this genre. Despite the challenges presented by the pandemic, I embraced my need to create art and committed myself to pursuing a career as an independent artist.
A pivotal event in my early career was when I posted my first hyperrealistic drawing of a liquor bottle on Instagram. Drawn to the challenge of capturing light reflection and mimicking fonts, I had chosen a labeled glass bottle as one of my first subjects. To my surprise, it caught the attention of the brand owners, who not only purchased the piece but also commissioned more artwork from me.
This experience opened doors to other notable commissions, including creating artwork for high-profile people like Dwayne Johnson, Brett Ratner, and the partners of Proper No. 12 Whiskey. It is a remarkable feeling to know that individuals who have the means to acquire any artwork they desire specifically choose my pieces.
Through word of mouth, exhibitions, and social media, I have continued to find collectors who appreciate and value my work. I’ve been able to explore my glass bottle theme further and have settled into a love of capturing antique wine and spirits. My work has been recognized through awards in juried exhibitions and I have continued to take on commissions.
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?
While the journey has been incredibly exciting, it hasn’t come without its challenges. Transitioning from a stable job at Madame Tussauds to the uncertainty of freelance work was a little daunting.
I had to learn all aspects of running a business, from marketing and sales to managing finances, without formal business training. However, my curiosity, determination, and willingness to learn have helped me navigate these challenges and grow both as an artist and as a business owner.
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?
Currently, my primary focus revolves around creating hyperrealistic drawings of antique liquor bottles. Hyperrealism drawings aim to replicate the subject with a level of detail that closely resembles a photograph. I am drawing these bottles at a larger scale, focusing on capturing the stains, tears, and wrinkles of their tattered labels. This specialization allows me to combine my love for detailed realism and my fascination with the stories behind these unique artifacts.
Moreover, my love of learning greatly influences my work. I love delving into the history of the antique bottles I depict and sharing these stories with my audience. It adds a layer of depth and significance to my drawings, connecting viewers not only with the visual aesthetics but also with the rich narratives behind these bottles.
In comparison to other hyperrealism artists, my commitment to working freehand distinguishes my approach. While many artists utilize grids or tracing methods, I thrive on the challenge of creating each piece without these aids. Rather than studying art in college, I graduated from JMU with a B.S. in Biology. I recognize that having my academic background in science instilled in me a meticulous approach and an analytical mindset that translates into my artistic process.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
The pandemic presented its own set of obstacles and it was interesting starting on my own in the throes of it. The lockdowns brought about a shift in the art industry, with gallery exhibitions being postponed or canceled. Like many, I adapted to the situation by focusing on online platforms, leveraging social media, and participating in virtual exhibitions to reach a wider audience.
I think for everyone, the pandemic highlighted the importance of flexibility and resilience in business. I learned to actively seek opportunities rather than wait for them to appear. Networking with fellow artists, sharing experiences, and supporting one another have been beneficial in navigating platforms where everyone is trying new tactics and seeing what sticks.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.briehayden.com
- Instagram: @briehaydenart
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/briehaydenart
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/briehaydenart
