Hayley Mcerlean

Most of my life I have been a city dweller but since moving to a rural setting I notice more and more the seasons, the changeable weather and the constant shifting light and they all have become a fascination for me. The world all around me has such an emotional impact and the moods of nature can become my own.

My artworks are all inspired by the natural world. The vast areas of rural landscape and coastline here in Ireland are a pleasure to study. Spotting the beauty in the details all around, day to day, has become a valuable past-time – catching a glimpse of the horizon, a beautiful tree, interesting shapes in the hedgerow, weather occurrences, etc., have all become my subject matter.

I am most comfortable using oil paint on canvas but since my studio is my kitchen table, I am mixing this with acrylic paint, household, spray paint, photoshop and different print techniques. I work on several pieces concurrently; this helps build layers of colour and texture. The act of painting can be as important as the subject.

My work starts from studies; drawings, colour and photography. From here I use my computer as a tool to manipulate, redrawing and playing with the composition and colours. This preparation work takes on a life of its ...

BA Hons Visual Arts at DeMontfort University, Leicester.
Higher National Diploma Art and Design at Barnet College, London.

Roe Valley Arts Centre, Limavady, Northern Ireland – 2023
The Velvet Easel, Portobello, Edinburgh - 2017
The Bridewell, Magherafelt, Northern Ireland - 2017
The Conservatory Gallery, Antrim, Northern Ireland - 2016
Raceview Mill, Broughshane, Northern Ireland - 2016
John Street Gallery, Ballymena, Northern Ireland - 2014
Horner Gallery, Castledawson, Northern Ireland - 2013