Not an experience easily described

The works are medium scale, black-and-white paintings, acrylic on canvas. They are predominantly square, decentralised compositions with a concern for figure-ground relationships. Each viewer will experience the works differently. Australian artist and media arts lecturer at CoFA (College of Fine Arts, University of New South Wales), Maureen Burns, comments: “They are to be enjoyed on a visual, emotional and reflective level.”

“There will also be new paintings, drawing on Zen practices and aesthetics,” Hayley says. Zen painting has been a long-term influence on Hayley’s work, as has contemporary Aboriginal art. “I am currently researching Contemporary Abstract painting in a socio-cultural context with particular reference to contemporary Aboriginal painting,” she adds.

The exhibition will include a number of photographs, black-and-white and colour. On display will be a selection of portraits taken in the slums of Phnom Penh. Earlier this year, Hayley volunteered for three months in Cambodia with an Australian-based aid organisation called Destiny Rescue. The group operates rescue, prevention and sponsorship programs with a focus on empowering children to break free of prostitution and poverty.

The experience afforded opportunity for work on a book of portraits. The artist aims, through sale of paintings, photographs and the completed book, to raise funds for Destiny Rescue. Her time in Cambodia was formative, artistically and personally. “It’s not an easy experience to describe,” she reflects. “I was welcomed into people’s homes.”

The book will contain stories, observations and facts. “I want it to hopeful,” Hayley says.

For further information please visit: www.destinyrescue.org/aus/

Hayley Megan French
New works
Abstract paintings and photographs
South Sydney Uniting Church
56a Raglan St, Waterloo
Opening: Saturday, September 5, 6pm.

September 5–October 16
Tuesday to Friday, 4.30–6.30pm, or by appointment (phone Eve Gibson on 0406 680 336).

Photo: Hayley Megan French - Phnom Penh, June 2009

Source: South Sydney Herald September 2009 www.southsydneyherald.com.au