Hello Friends!

In this conversation, I speak with one of my favorite hairdressers, Mustafa Yanaz. We discuss the evolution of his hairdressing career and the influence of photography on his work. He reflects on his cultural background, family heritage, and the impact of punk culture on his creative expression. I really enjoyed this one and I hope you do too!

Takeaways

• Mustafa feels he can always improve his work.
• The definition of greatness in hairdressing is subjective.
• Photography became a way for Mustafa to capture his work.
• He learned to see hair from a photographer’s perspective.
• Cultural background plays a significant role in creativity.
• Family influence shaped Mustafa’s approach to hairdressing.
• Punk culture has a lasting impact on hairdressing styles.
• Mustafa’s mother influenced his technical skills in hairdressing.
• Personal identity is crucial in the creative process.
• The journey of learning involves both following and breaking rules.
• Turkish culture is deeply intertwined with hospitality and community.
• Growing up in a mixed cultural environment shapes personal identity.
• Documenting stories through photography can bridge cultural gaps.
• Cultural celebration should be distinguished from appropriation.
• Breaking traditional rules can lead to greater success in creative fields.
• Social media can create unhealthy comparisons among individuals.
• Experiences in different countries can reshape professional perspectives.
• The creative process often involves experimentation and exploration.
• Learning from historical references can inspire modern creativity.
• Parenting in the digital age requires balancing exposure to technology.
• Mustafa started his photography journey by offering haircuts in exchange for photos.
• Self-documentation is crucial for growth in any creative field.
• Balancing family responsibilities with creative projects requires careful planning.
• The idea for ‘Give Me A Moment’ came from a friend’s encouragement.
• Finding the right agency representation can significantly impact a creative’s career.
• Building a relationship with your agent is key to success.
• Collaboration with other creatives can push you to new heights.
• Sharing knowledge and techniques can elevate the entire industry.
• Investing in quality equipment can enhance your creative output.
• Creating a supportive community among artists fosters growth and innovation.