Samuel Hagai is a prominent graffiti artist, hyper-realist, and surrealist painter born in 1982 in Israel but currently resides in the US. Samuel has been passionate about painting from a young age and began teaching himself how to use oil paints on canvas at 12. Over time, his passion grew, prompting Samuel to pursue painting as a profession. His portfolio is the best proof of his success. He displays all murals and art projects he has done and is positive that his work speaks for itself. Some of his work can be found in galleries and on walls in iconic cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Paris, London, and several towns in Israel.
Samuel had a rocky journey at the beginning of his career. "It was so challenging becoming a world-known artist without any degree or funds. I had to work hard and use every dollar I had so that I could buy material to create more and more murals. I did countless art projects without any profit," Samuel says. To him, it was hard living through the uncertainty, but fortunately, things took a different turn when he started sharing his art with his close associates and local communities in Israel, receiving lots of encouragement and support in return. It also helped him gain recognition from art collectors, galleries, and followers from Israel and eventually many parts of the world. “I’m excited that I never gave up but saw the challenges as learning opportunities that have shaped me into the instrumental artist I am today,” Samuel adds.
Samuel's career breakthrough came in 2017 when the American department store chain, Macy's, invited him to create a Christmas mural artwork. In 2019, he painted four murals on the US Air Force base in New Jersey. Later the same year, he established an independent exhibition in the West Village, New York, where he displayed his artwork in public spaces, galleries, exhibitions, museums, military bases, corporate offices, and higher education institutions in Israel and the US.
The talented artist advises upcoming artists to feel every project and focus on the smallest details. In his opinion, this is how artwork can turn from just a pretty picture into a breathtaking, unforgettable piece. "The mistake I made is to try to work fast and not focus on small details. As I grew, I learned that the only way to create an unforgettable piece is by paying attention even to the smallest detail and taking the time with every project," he explains.
Samuel adds, "Also, never give up! Believe in yourself, work hard, and eventually, success will arrive. I never stopped working despite many obstacles! Even when I had bad days when I could barely afford paint for my work. I did countless projects with no profit just so I'll be able to continue doing what I love.”
The artist has an overwhelming passion for captivating others as a self-taught, diverse international artist who puts his heart and soul into every art piece. He aims to continue creating more murals and art projects and become a household name showing his artwork all over the world. Samuel's biggest purpose is to use this unique talent, share it with the world, and help people turn their dreams into art pieces they will never forget.
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