Blue Man Group helped Provo artist find his groove

Blue Man Group helped Provo artist find his groove

(Havoc Hendricks)


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PROVO — Inspiration and motivation sometimes come from unlikely sources. For local artist Havoc Hendricks, it took a group of world-renowned percussionists to send him on his career path.

Growing up in Idaho Falls, Hendricks found himself drawn to the simplicity and beauty of nature. His grandfather was an avid rock hound and Hendricks loved perusing the vast collections at his house. The elegant lines and curves found in geodes particularly fascinated Hendricks, and he began to notice they were ubiquitous in the natural world.

"I was flabbergasted to see the same lines and curves in geodes, water, cloud patterns, fire and wood grain," Hendricks said. "These patterns became an obsession for me."

After graduating from BYU Idaho, where he played as a drummer in several local bands, Hendricks moved to Virginia to attend graduate school at James Madison University. One year into his studies, his plans took a detour when his drumming abilities came to the attention of The Blue Man Group.

Yes, that Blue Man Group. Hendricks was hired by the New York City troupe and was soon performing as a Blue Man for thousands of fans and earning big paychecks.

Hendricks was given the opportunity to tour the world and continue his development as a performer, but decided the ultra-competitive environment wasn’t a good fit. While he relished each performance, he didn’t think he’d be happy as a Blue Man in the long run.

But the once-in-a-lifetime experience taught him an important lesson: you can follow your artistic passions and be successful.

"I spent many years in jobs doing things I disliked because I thought that was the only way to make a good living," Hendricks said. "But after I became a professional Blue Man on accident, I realized there's a whole world of successful creatives and I've never looked back."

Another great triptych Mt. Painting Collection ⚔⚔⚔

A photo posted by Havoc Hendricks (@havochendricks) on

After moving to Provo, Hendricks set up a studio where he could channel his passion for nature. The art he creates hearkens back to the same things that fascinated him as a child.

"I’m on a journey to make organized chaos in the most beautiful way possible," he explained. "Currently, I'm exploring collections of geodes, mountains, moons, water and stone."

Hendricks’ hard work definitely seems to be paying off. His artwork has attracted clients from around the globe, and while many of his domestic clients are on the east and west coasts, Hendricks has also gotten a warm welcome locally.

"I've been surprised by how well my art has been received in Utah," he said. "I've realized there's a strong market here for those who love and understand the simple appeal of a modern piece done well."

Examples of Hendricks’ geodes and other art collections can be found on his website at www.HavocHendricks.com. He also posts project updates on his Instagram account.

Although he spends much of his time in his studio, Hendricks still finds time to perform as a drummer. The crowds are much smaller than his Blue Man days, but he’s happy with the balance he’s found for his artistic endeavors.


![Grant Olsen](http://img.ksl.com/slc/2560/256091/25609108\.jpg?filter=ksl/65x65)
About the Author: Grant Olsen \-----------------------------

Grant Olsen joined the KSL.com contributor team in 2012. He covers outdoor adventures, travel, product reviews and other interesting things. He is also the author of the book “Rhino Trouble.” You can contact him at grantorrin@gmail.com.

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