Hey all,
As many of you have noticed, LHS has been on a short hiatus post-Halloween 2024. I wanted to reflect on the year. 2024 was a massive year for the Empire. I can proudly say that I made and sold more masks in 2024 than any other year in the company's history, which in turn means that more of you have unique hand-crafted works of art in your homes.
It cannot be expressed in words how much I appreciate everyone's support. What's interesting about the art industry is that with each year and each accomplishment, the art you own now could continue to grow in value and collectability. This is perfectly demonstrated with today’s news of the closure of the legendary Zagone Studios. With over 50 years of making classic latex monster masks that many of us grew up with; suddenly today we appreciate them a little more. My highest respects to the Zagone team for their astounding impact.
But enough about the industry. I have spent the last portion of 2024 learning what it is to be creative again. I've allowed myself the time to explore my thoughts and ideas a little more than I typically can under the pressure of managing all that I do. As much as I hate to take breaks, living and experiencing is something that I have grown to believe is more and more crucial to thriving as an artist. It is the human condition itself that separates good art from bad. For this reason, I am yet to feel threatened by the rise of AI art; It just feels so empty.
That's a tangent for another day. For now, I'd like to tell you all that I am increasingly optimistic about the return of LHS in 2025. I think you will all be very happy.
See you soon.
- Austin Lindemann
1/3/25