Today we’d like to introduce you to Hugh Spector.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Story Boxes are essentially a miniature stage set demonstrating the marriage of theater and architectural model making. My work has evolved from having been influenced by my experience as shop carpenter for the theater department at Southern Illinois University where I graduated with a BA in Ceramics, and years of creating porcelain architectural models. The architectural and theatrical elements of my work have combined to form the natural progression of those sensibilities.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
An interesting question regarding a smooth road; like life itself there are always struggles along the way. In keeping with the driving metaphor, sometimes you are forced to go off road into difficult terrain, sometimes you choose the road less traveled. The greatest difficulties have been economic, in no small measure due to the financial collapse of 2008, discretionary income being much more of a luxury than it once was. The other struggle is the artistic one, when artist block sets in and trying to rekindle the inspiration so vital in creating. When inspired, it is difficult to keep up with flow of ideas and and transposing those ideas into the process of creation, that feeling is incredibly exhilarating but impossible to maintain. Always working to achieve that state of inspiration and maintaining it as long as it lasts, then continue working to regain that nirvana.
SpectorStoryBox – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
SpectorStoryBox has been ongoing since 1989, having morphed out of Porcelain Buildings which began in 1975.
I am most proud of the fact that I create beautiful artwork, have exhibited widely, and have traveled the world.
I am recognized for my attention to detail in my work, kindness in my approach to life, and directness, a trait that is sometimes uncomfortable for some, valued by others.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is another ambiguous concept. I consider being able to, and making work that I consider beautiful, to be a success, but that is merely a fragment of the bigger picture. It is necessary to be a good human being.
I try to be a good parent, husband, friend, compassionate, and kind. My work is an extension of who I am as person.
Contact Info:
- Address: Hugh Spector
4865 N Ravenswood
Chicago, IL 60640 - Website: spectorstorybox.com
- Phone: 773-816-4742
- Email: hugh@spectorstorybox.com
- Facebook: Spectorstorybox
Image Credit:
Photo of the artist by Joe Oliver, all photos of artwork by Eileen Ryan.
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