Meet Larry Hastings | Scenic artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Larry Hastings and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Larry, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Originally I wanted to be able to make cool props and costumes for friends and family. But after a few friends saw my work at a local convention they urged me to pursue it a bit more serious. 11 years later and here we are.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
90% of my work involves understanding people and what they want. Making things personal for my clients is my primary goal. If my client is happy with what I’ve made them then I’ve done a great job.
The other 10% is making the prop/costume for my client(s). That’s the easy thing.

I’d say I strive for excellence in everything I do. Atleast to some extent, I feel as if I’m set apart due to the higher than normal level of what can be considered “good enough” in my work specifically.

About 11 or so years ago, I worked on the ohio river moving cargo, I would bring a work bag with me filled with random junk and materials to build with throughout my shift, unlike the rest of my coworkers which would have food, or an extra change of clothes. There were several hurdles to over come yes. But as there are when you’re doing something that is worth your time.
I’d say the most important things I’ve learned to this point are surprisingly simple. But crucial!
1 don’t put your cart before your horse. (Aka don’t get ahead of yourself. Plan slowly and deliberately)
2 haste makes waste.
(Making the thing is fun. But not if you rush your materials that need a specific time to set up/cure. Let things do what they need to and don’t double work)
3 it’s not what you can do so much as who you know. (Often most successful opportunities I’ve gotten have come from being in the right place at the right time.)

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Holmers illaid. That book was read to me as a young child and has inspired me to be creative with what I make/do. Holmer was instrumental for that. I now read the same book to my children.

Charles (blaster pro) for introducing me to new techniques and methods on making the best prop/costumes possible. Although I have come a ways from where I was 10 years ago. I couldn’t have done it without him teaching me the tricks of the trade.

Larry Hastings Jr.
My father. For raising me with the knowledge that if I want to do something I can. I just need a bit of elbow grease and determination to get it. For helping me become a man and always being there when I need him.

Darryl Kemper
My business partner, my friend. For building and empire with me in a short period of time that we’ve known one another.

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