Artist Interview - Becky Hadfield

Description of Work 

For our exhibition we will most likely use the smaller scale pieces for the exhibition. These pieces are cut into small acetate cones and circles splashed with digital prints of paint. 

How it links to Ethereal 

The concept behind the pieces is to explore a physical journey, a strong link with our own journey of 'Through the Ether'. The delicacy of the pieces and the reflection of light has strong connotations to the ethereal. 
 

The Interview

Faith interviewed artist Becky Hadfield about her work. 

1/. Please outline your inspirations for your current practice in relation to this artwork? 

 

My work is process based and focuses on the dialect that materials have when placed together in a relational environment. Currently I am exploring an alternative painterly language through a physical journey of exploration. I aim to create a visual conversation within the work through the production of sensory and stimulating components in which the subject is not always obvious. The combination of materials and processes adds visual interest and gives the viewer chance to interpret the work.

2/. Would you share any guidance and/or events that you feel have affected your practice and your outlook towards art since you started Uni?' 

 

Always keep your eyes wide open and attend as many lectures/events/exhibitions/seminars/discussions as possible. It may not seem to be relevant at the time but it’s all knowledge that you have gained and in my case its often events or lectures that didn’t seem to be relevant at the time that have actually been the most influential. I visited the ‘Light Show’ at the Hayward Gallery in 2013 and it still remains one of the most significant and inspirational exhibitions I have been to. I was exposed to new materials, extremely creative ways of using space and fantastic artists that I continue to follow. The ‘Light Show’ in particular pushed boundaries and showed what a powerful effect interactive and engaging work can have on a viewer.

 

 

 3/. What feedback have you received from tutors regarding your practice and work and how has that affected your practice as an artist and this particular work? 

 

I have had very positive feedback so far this year. Having just finished a module I will now be working on my feedback and taking successful elements forward to create new and improved pieces. I like to view my work as a continuation of what existed previously. All work can be improved or altered at any stage. Even small alterations like how the work is hung can make a huge difference to how the work is interpreted.

4/. Can you give us any tips for our curatorial project? What was challenging and successful in your own Art & Exhibition module last year?

 

Keep communicating on all levels at all times. It’s very difficult working in a group especially as part of a module that at times can be very demanding. I would also suggest that on the day of installing the show you have a plan of what tasks should be done and by what time. It’s also good practice to have a hanging committee that physically hang the work and allocate jobs to others in the room. My top tip would to not be afraid to change the positioning/lighting/location of work on the day. It will be the first time you see all the work in the same room and this will change how you view each piece individually and you can also respond to the dialogue between pieces. Most importantly, have fun!