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

Hi Chel, what are you inspired by?
I am inspired by creative people and the amazing art that they produce. I love to see tattoo artists like Josh Carpenter of Reaper Madness, photographers like Cody Hammer of Oklahoma and Cheyenne Weston of Arizona, artists like JB Snyder and Shani Rei, and bands like Realm and Miserable Ghost. They are all doing what they love and sharing it with others. That passion keeps me going and photographing.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I got where I am today by getting out there and making it happen, networking, and the support and love that my friends and people in the community have given me. It is hard to get out there and photograph when I still work my 9-5 but photography is what I love to do so I make time for it. I’ve learned that the old adage is true do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life. Also that work life balance is important and it’s okay to take time off.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When my cousin Diane came to visit Arizona a couple years ago I took her on a trip to show her all my favorite places. It was her first time in the desert so I wanted to show her all the wonders Arizona has to offer. I took her downtown to see the murals on Roosevelt row, to the Hopi mesas on the reservation to see the art, architecture and incredible people who are indigenous to the area, the painted desert, Flagstaff, Sedona, and several archeological sites along the way. We only had a short weekend to explore but we made the most of it.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My biggest supporters are the people in the community here. I have met and become friends with so many talented and passionate individuals. Some of my biggest supporters has been Paulina Rios aka DJ Spin Lizzy who is currently working at Cahokia, Autumn Weinmann aka The Lights Witch, and all the photographers who participate in State 48 photography meet ups.

Website: https://www.instagram.com/state.48.photography.gallery/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deadbirdgallery/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chel-hicks-a6260357/

Image Credits
All photos were photographed by Chel Hicks of Dead Bird Gallery.

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.