You know when someone has that undeniable talent? That ability to create something extremely innovative that really inspires you? Well, meet Hayden Menzies, a creative soul that has many gifts. Not only is he the drummer for Juno and Polaris Prize nominated, Toronto Punk Rock band, Metz, he is an amazing artist and illustrator.  I recently sat down with him to talk about his life and his extra crispy artwork that will make you happy you have eyes!

Tell me a little about your life growing up?

I was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba. My parents met in University and played in bands together until my Dad unexpectedly got into Medical school in his 30’s. With no way to pay for it and four kids, he joined the army and they paid for Med school and because of this we moved around quite a bit. Every 2-3 years we would be somewhere different. We lived in Germany, and all over Canada–Fredericton, Ottawa, Kingston. Luckily, I have three brothers I’m still very close with because we moved around so often. You don’t get a chance to have long term friends when every couple of years you have to pick up and move. Eventually, I went to University in Ottawa for Environmental Studies and Bio Chemistry but ended up at Concordia University in Montreal to complete my arts degree.

Who are your influences?

When it comes to ink on paper, old rubber hose animation stuff and Steamboat Micky. Filmwise, Czech filmmaker/animator, surrealist, Jan Svankmajer. Current stuff would include, Gerhard Richter, older Alberto Giacometti stuff or Egon Schiele. I like trying to combine the really tight finite things with cartoons, with the sort of disposable or messy, less precious approach with dry brush strokes. I like those things playing with each other.

What inspires you?

I’m constantly inspired by seeing other people create stuff. Whether its artwork, or music or owning a flower shop.  I get inspired by the people who have the gusto to go out and work toward something and put themselves out there and be somewhat vulnerable. I think it’s very noble and admirable for people to take risks and put creative things out on the line. 

What is next for you?

Future plans are to just continue to record and tour and do as much art as I can. You gotta work to be happy!