About the Artist

Erik-Hombre found emotional peace, escape, and solace through creating art. A state of being that would, later in life, mature into a calming state of zen - silencing his inner struggles by balancing his equally logical left and creative right-sided brain. His curiosity is relentless in seeking to see the forest for the trees and the single tree in the forest. Understanding the big picture and the detail is how HombretheArtist sees the world.

The struggles of creativity were apparent for HombretheArtist as he sat in his studio outside New York City, surrounded by unfinished sumi-e sketches and half-empty mugs of lukewarm tea. The demands of balancing expression with mindfulness weighed heavily on him, leaving his mind cluttered and his days chaotic. Even small rituals, like his morning tea, felt uninspired. His old mug, chipped and ordinary, reflected the disconnect he felt from his art and practice.

One day, while creating a new sumi-e painting, he realized his art could extend beyond canvas and paper. He envisioned his black-and-white designs on everyday items, starting with a mug that could bring Zen to daily life. The new mug, featuring one of his elegant sumi-e pine tree designs, transformed his morning routine. It fit comfortably in his hand, its insulated design kept his tea warm, and its artwork reminded him of the emotional peace he sought to capture in his work.

HombretheArtist found a renewed sense of mindfulness and creativity with every cup of serenity. The mug became more than just a vessel—it was a daily touchpoint for his Zen practice and a source of inspiration for new pieces. As he sipped from the mug that embodied his artistry, he felt a deeper connection to his craft and his rituals, turning struggles into moments of serenity and creativity. His journey inspired others, proving that even a simple mug could bridge the gap between art, meditation, and everyday life.