Dan Lythcott-Haims Notices the Human-Made World
Dan Lythcott-Haims notices the ignored and broken bits of the human-made world, like corners that aren’t joined precisely and patterns, both intentional and emergent, that mark and define objects.
He uses photography and found art sculpture to elevate these moments, and here's what he had to say about that when we sat down to chat:
1. Why do you make your work?
At some point I realized that not everybody sees the world the way I do. I'm not speaking philosophically, I'm being literal. When I walk down the street, I notice thing that other people's eyes don't see. When I discovered that I could create images of these things to share, I didn't really have a choice but to do so.
2. How did you choose or land on the mediums you use now?
My two mediums are photography and found art sculpture. In both cases, I don't have to start with a blank canvas or paper or a shapeless hunk of material - I've never been comfortable with that. I begin with what exists, and then I figure out a way to depict or present that reality.
3. What are you presently inspired by?
I continue to be inspired by the effects of time and nature on the things made by humans. Nature creates colors and textures that far surpass anything we as designers can dream up.
4. Other than your art practice, what other work do you do?
I have spent most of my career as a User Experience Designer. That means it's my job to make things easy to use.
5. What are your current artistic influences?
Some of my favorite artists right now are Sahba Shere, Ken Sloan, Aaron De La Cruz, and Arman.
6. What’s your least favorite color?
Royal blue.
7. Do you have any upcoming events?
Right now a solo show at International Art Museum of America (IAMA) coinciding with the opening of their new exhibition hall. Collected opened last Tuesday and runs through October 31st. The official opening reception is Friday, September 14th from 5PM- 8PM.
Many of Dan's latest works are available on Artfinder where you'll also find artworks by many more stARTup artists.
Sign up for the newsletter and follow us on Instagram for more behind-the-scenes moments and details about our fairs, artists, and special exhibitions.
Q&A by Content Curator Mica England