Artist Spotlight
Nathan Hayes
I met Nathan through mutual friends and I have to say I find his work breathtaking. He has an eye for the little details that many people simply overlook in their everyday lives.
He was nice enough to share some of his favorite photos and take timeout of his busy schedule to answer a few questions about himself and his art.
Nathan Hayes is a SouthernIllinois University of
Edwardsville studio art major, focusing in photography, and a business minor. Whatreally drew him to SIUE was the openness of the campus and how close it is to nature,
"Wilderness is where I feel most myself and SIUE has as much wildlife walking around campus as students," Hayes said.
Hayes's love for photography started as a hobby. Not believing he could make a career out of it, Hayes started towards an engineering degree. Eventually, he left engineering for photography stating that his passion outweighed his desire for a steady paycheck.
With an interest in traveling, Hayes hopes to become a staff photographer or freelance photographer for National Geographic or any similar organization, after graduation. He hopes to be able to share images from across the globe and the stories that accompany them. Hayes also finds inspiration in the work of Sam Abell who has contributed to National Geographic and is one of the more famous photographers in that field.
While he has always been drawn more towa
rds nature, school has broadened his horizon and has exposed him to different styles and subjects including people. Hayes finds enjoyment from the places he gets to go and the people he meets,
"Whether it be some deep dark forest or crowded street, every shoot is an adventure." —Nathan Hayes
Being an art student takes a lot and can be daunting. Often you can find students curled up in the corner of a studio trying to catch a couple hours of sleep or curled up in a chair with a full-course, microwaved meal. It seems 
like almost every student has a coffee cup glued to their hand. The students are often covered in and the air's often full of dust, charcoal, plaster, sawdust and the faint smell of fumes from the many supplies that drain every last cent form students' pockets. Hayes has a bit of advice for all the new students who want to become part of the Art and Design family,
"Be open to other's ideas, don't procrastinate and shortchange yourself, and if you feel like you should change your shipping address to the art building throughout your semesters; you're doing something right."
