Stephen Hayes

Illustration by Sed Miles

Stephen Hayes is a Durham mixed media sculptor and creator of notably exhibited Cash Crop. Hayes, whose work is rooted in social and economic themes of race dynamics, showcases history using tools large & small including ceramics, tapestry, and found items.

Why are you a creator rather than an artist, and is there an overlap?

I don't know how the role of a creator differs from that of an artist. I just prefer to be called a creator. I don't want to be put in a box or category because I don't do just one thing.

After the success of Cash Crop, what's next?

Cash Crop came out in 2010 and was my first exhibition. This work still travels to this day. After that exhibition began my career as a creator, I started teaching at the college level. I feel it is important to grow as a creator and to learn/develop new skills and techniques. I am currently finishing up a bronze monument that will be unveiled in November 2021.

What’s the status of your Black Wall Street Gardens project? Will we see it soon?

The Black Wall Street Gardens project is still going; Covid-19 pandemic has gotten in the way and slowed things down.

Are there other art forms you would like to try?

Learning 3D printing is something that I would like to grasp at the moment.

What is success?

Success means several things. Success is being 100% financially free of debt. Success means supporting my family, as well as creating a legacy for my children. Success means creating, exhibiting, and selling art around the world. Success also means influencing and inspiring the next generation!

How can we buy your art?

Check my website, email me, or message me on social media.