2025 02 08

Shelby and her snake friend. Chicago, Illinois. October, 2024. © Clayton Hauck

I’ve been living at the studio lately. Not sleeping, but here a lot. I’m writing this from here.

This very much feels like a make or break year for me when it comes to being a photographer. I’ll always be a photographer, of course, but the one who has a fancy studio and does big budget jobs? That might be nearing its end. Or maybe not. I can’t say, as most of the factors are completely out of my control. The good news is that I have no shortage of ideas on how to keep on keeping on and am more motivated than ever to do cool, fun, weird, art.

Life will happen and I will adapt, as humans do.

We don’t really like what you do.
We don’t think anyone ever will.
It’s a problem that you have.
And this problem made you ill.

Listen up and I’ll tell you a story.
About an artist growing old.
Some would try for fame and glory.
Others aren’t so bold.

The artist walks alone.
Someone says behind his back:
He’s got his gall to call himself that!
He doesn’t even know where he’s at!

Daniel Johnston, a forever favorite, was more wise than I will likely ever be.

Why do you only do that only? Why are you so odd?

-Clayton