Dali. Picabia. Haddad. DHS Sophomore Joe Haddad is the Next Artistic Genius
NEIRAD enilno edition
Joe Haddad is one of Darien High School's most talented artists. One could even call him a “hipster.” This sophomore describes his genre of work as surrealism, which is a type of art that juxtaposes different ideas. “I admire the work of Vladimir Kush,” Joe said. Like his idol Kush, Joe has a distinct style.
Much of the inspiration comes from real life. “I like to do figure drawing, and profiles. But really anything that I can observe in real life, as opposed to looking at a photo.”
Joe’s interests in art range to a wide variety of media. Not only does Joe do traditional drawings, he is also a master of graffiti and graphic design. He is responsible for the cover of the “Inherit the Wind” poster and the logo for the men’s swim team. He is able to work on a computer to make alternate posters of famous movies, such as “Finding Nemo.”
“It was great to work on the poster for “Inherit the Wind.” Collaborating with Paris (La Rock) was awesome - she brought a bunch of new ideas to the design, which made it very successful.” The poster received critical acclaim from students. “That poster was really fresh,” senior Chris Morales said.
His wide variety of Theater 308 contributions also extends to set work. Joe paints all the backdrops. Senior Patricia Cadareanu is forever grateful for his work. “He joined 308 as a techie this year and he's been a great asset to us. Two days before the opening night, I was informed that three huge back pieces that required fairly intricate artwork in regards to the rest of the set hadn't been painted at all. I immediately called Joe and two of his friends and he led the project and was able to get everything finished in time while maintaining his cool completely,” Patricia said.
Joe plans on pursuing an artistic career. “My main focus is graphic design and illustration. I went to National Portfolio Day this year, which is an opportunity to meet with college reviewers for liberal art schools,” he said.
One may wonder how Joe can create such intricate artwork on a computer. He uses a program called Adobe Illustrator. But although he is accomplished with graphic design, his preferred method is still traditional pencil and paper.
Joe first gained interest in the world of art when he was in the 6th grade. “Once I started, I couldn’t stop. It became a passion and I’ve been doing it ever since.”
So far in high school, Joe has already taken drawing, drawing and painting, and art foundation. Joe plans on taking graphic design with Dorine Bosler in the spring.
Joe’s interests are not limited to art. “Music is a big part of my life. I play piano and guitar and I listen to it as much as I can.” Like many other artists, he can find inspiration in music. “Listening to music can create a mood for myself can create a mood or idea that drives me to a piece of art.”
Joe’s Favorite Musical Artists
- Radiohead
- The White Stripes
- The Smashing Pumpkins
- Arcade Fire
- The Doors
When Joe is not creating amazing artwork, he takes to the pool or to philosophy. He is on the swim team and in the Free Thinker’s Club. Outside of school, Joe likes hanging out with his friends. “Joe is actually a really wonderful friend, he and I spend a lot of time watching ‘Star Wars’, playing video games, and talking about everything from ‘Star Wars’ to personal problems and such, ” senior Liv Taylor said.
Joe Haddad has a bright future in the world of art but like all great artists, he has suggestions for aspiring arists. Joe says that he was not born with natural talent. “I was not always so accomplished, and when I started out, I was no worse or better than anyone else. With enough practice, I think it’s a skill anyone can learn,” Joe said.
Check out Joe’s original artwork that brightens his room.
