Samuel Hagai's journey from a self-taught painter to a professional muralist is an inspiring story of hard work, determination, and risk-taking. Born in Israel to a family of modest means, Hagai had few resources to aid him in honing his painting skills. But for Hagai, this was not a roadblock but rather an opportunity to challenge himself and push his limits.
He worked relentlessly, taking odd jobs to pay for art supplies while developing his skills and providing for his family. As time passed, Hagai's skills grew exponentially, and his paintings began to receive attention in the local art circles. The local community was fascinated by his works, and the international community soon began to take notice of this young artist's talent.
The life of Hagai changed drastically in 2015 when Hagai took a leap of faith and moved from his comfortable home in Israel to the United States. Hagai chose New York City as his destination, drawn by the big goals and opportunities that America offered. However, it wasn't an easy start—Hagai didn't know many people in the city and struggled to learn the language. But he was determined to turn his hobby into a full-time career, and eventually, after a year of failure and struggles, businesses started becoming interested in his work, and jobs began to come in.
With hard work, dedication, and an optimistic mindset, Hagai was able to secure large-scale mural work with clients such as Macy's and the US Air Force, as well as show his paintings at various exhibits around town. But despite his success, Hagai began to feel tired of life in New York and knew he needed a change. In 2019, he took another leap of faith and moved to Los Angeles, where he is now fully engaged as a muralist and oil painter.
This risk paid off, as Hagai found the new environment stimulating and refreshing. Los Angeles provided him with a new kind of creative energy and the opportunity to collaborate with other artists and take part in the thriving local art scene. This vibrant city offers a wealth of opportunities for the artist, with art museums like MOCA, the Getty, the Broad, and LACMA, as well as beautiful downtown patios and the famous Venice Boardwalk.
Hagai immediately embraced the unique culture of Los Angeles, immersing himself in the city's art and cultural life. He enjoys taking his friends to stroll the canals or bike the strand, and he appreciates LA's diverse art scene. Every minute spent exploring the city reveals something new, giving him inspiration and ideas for his next project. His murals can be seen all around Los Angeles, showcasing his unique talent to transform a wall into a vibrant canvas.
Samuel Hagai has now become one of the most highly regarded and sought-after muralists in Los Angeles and all around the world. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of believing in oneself. He took a risk by leaving the familiar for the unknown and, through hard work and dedication, turned his hobby into a successful career. Hagai's journey from unknown to in demand is an inspiration for anyone who has ever dreamed of turning their passion into a profession.
