toner Selected collages by Sam Hatzaras, an “outsider” artist that we discovered on Instagram and asked some questions about art and creativity.
Sam, where do you get your inspiration?
I am often inspired by seemingly insignificant things like a scap of paper or an aged book cover. When I am working on new pieces I tend to smoke a lot of cannabis. I find that it helps with the artistic process. Also ambient music is a must.
Which is the relationship and influence between your cultural background (country, studies, etc.) and your artworks?
I’m not sure if my cultural background comes into play. I’m a boring caucasian athiest with little to no training. My art is very random. Thrown together in the moment with no specific vision or direction. I simply enjoy creating physical objects that are aesthetically pleasing. In short, there is no link or common thread to follow. Mistakes piled upon mistakes glued together with good intentions.
What are you much focused in?
I’m currently focused on finishing pieces for zines/books slated to be published this year. I’m also planning a limited edition reproduction set and collaborative zine featuring some of my favourite artists from around the globe (both items will be released on Shareware).
Have you encountered any difficulties when you first started your art/freelance career?
I haven’t really encountered any problems in the art world because I haven’t been a part of it for over a decade. Even now I feel like a bit of an outsider. To be honest, I’m humbled by the response to my recent work. People seem to enjoy my output and that’s comforting. Like right now, you’re interviewing me because I glued some paper together and snapped some pics. That’s pretty wild.
Do you think that a creative job is just creativity or it’s discipline too?
Creativity is discipline. I lose many hours of sleep so I can create something new and unique. Even though I don’t earn a living from my art I am deeply passionate about the process.
Are you currently work on new projects?
I have several projects in the works. The most current project is the Vice series. I took clippings from 10 back issues of vice magazine. I plan on releasing a set of 50 collages. The vice series will be for sold eventually either as a lot or piece by piece.
Over these years, what is the most important thing you have learnt from your profession?
Create for yourself. If you are satisfied with the work you’ve accomplished your objective.
Instagram > @samhatzaras
Tumblr > relics-from-another-realm.tumblr.com
