For artist Derek Hess, life is nothing but a series of lines; connected by color and explained by perspective that offer both the questions and the answers. Invariably, all artists seek the truth; however, Hess has based his creative energy in peeling back the layers to expose the core of society, which oftentimes reveals a vision of gritty imagery and an oblique point of view.
It's called real life.

While studying drawing and printmaking at the Cleveland Institute of Art Hess began booking shows at Cleveland's then underground venue The Euclid Tavern. While he never graduated from art school, working in the environment of indie rock prompted Hess to design rock posters for each show. Ultimately, it was the perfect excuse for an artist to find his voice and to explore his craft.

Eventually, people began taking notice of Hess' poster work - what followed was a frenzy of concert poster requests and global attention during a renaissance in the popularity of rock show announcements.

Hess created hundreds of posters for varied bands, but the triumphant and surprising moment for Hess came when the Louvre, requested his art to be added to their permanent poster collection. His first portfolio is also part of a permanent collection at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.

derekhess.com // biography and general information // October 2005
godspeed you black emperor! // inspiration and lyrics
ox-op.com/hess // pictures, reference material // October 2005
Juhana Honkanen and Joonas Salo // for the music. thank you guys // October 2005