ADAM HAYNES INTERVIEW

How did the collaboration between you and Nike get started?  
I have Chris Hotz at Nemo design to thank for that.  I sent him a portfolio when I first set out doing solo work and I think he contacted me a few weeks later to contribute some art to the 6.0 campaign.  I remember him saying something like "the theme is two headed mutants.  Just go nuts".  I had fun.  My mutant laboratory experiment went into a promotional booklet with a bunch of other artwork, and I guess it went over pretty well.  I was asked to do a few more spot illustrations and some story-boards, and before I knew it, I was drawing ads.

The Pier Pressure artwork this year is quite different from last year's.  How did you and Nike come up with the event creative this time around?
I think we both wanted something a little different than last year. More waves and surfing, more energy and action.

You have a unique style of bringing together both rural and urban aspects in your artwork.  How did that develop?
I grew up in a pretty rural environment and I still find much of my inspiration off the beaten path.  Many aspects of rural and urban landscape are similar, and I've found that the constant renewal and decay of the landscape is a constant no matter the location.   The subjects that interest me most usually share the same attributes.  Worn out, beat up, well used, infused with the character that has shaped them over the years.
 
Did your interest in art start at an early age?  How did it progress as you developed your own style and niche over the years?
I guess I started early.  I grew up in a pretty rural part of Oregon, and I spent a lot of time drawing and reading.  We never had a TV until I was in high school.  I've always liked drawing and painting and it's a real privilege to be able to support myself in this way.  

You mentioned in a previous interview your interest in artists Evan Hecox, Katsuhiro Otomo, and Frank Miller.  How have those artists and their styles of work influenced the way you create and direct your art?
Without a doubt, the importance of developing a distinct style and consistency in my work.  The work of all three artists is instantly recognizable in their line quality, color selection, and composition.  Following their work has pushed me to develop my own style, and to constantly strive for new breakthroughs and greater mastery of my medium.      

Lastly, is there anything in the pipeline with Nike or your personal work we should be looking forward to?  
The paint is still drying, but there is lots of new work dropping soon.  I've been painting almost exclusively, very little computer aided drawings.  So if you like the hand-done stuff, check it out.