Kazu Hiro Creates Hyperrealistic Sculptures of Historical Figures

Los Angeles-based artist Kazu Hiro spent 25 years working as a special make-up effects expert in Hollywood. Now, he’s using this experience to create amazing hyperrealistic sculptures of historical figures, including Jimi Hendrix, Frida Kahlo, and Abraham Lincoln.

After becoming a respected name in the movie business, Hiro has managed to forge a similar reputation in the art world as well. His sculptures, which depict the subjects in a large-scale format, have been exhibited in art galleries and museums all over the world. Some of his works were also acquired by private collectors, adding further recognition to his craft.

Hiro is purposely crafting his sculptures, which are made out of silicone and resin, among other materials, up to eight times bigger than the real-life size. According to him, this allows the viewer to better examine the facial features of the subjects.

“My aim is to sculpt portraits that go beyond capturing a likeness,” Hiro explains on his website. “I create these heads from the inside out, bringing to life the appearance of inner thought and emotion as I layer the silicone. “

Hiro, who won Academy Awards for his work on Darkest Hour and Bombshell, creates most of his works at a custom-built modeling and casting studio in LA. He frequently shares his newest sculptures on social media. You can check out more of them below.