Angela Hayson

8. Angela Hayson, Tribe Series No. 1, 2023, monoprint and woodblock print on Japanese kozo on cardboard structure, 150 x 135 x 85 cm. Photography by Jim Flook. NFS.

My work, Tribe Series No.1 (2023), depicts relationships with one another in the face of human frailty. It explores gender roles in the context of the family unit, or equally, the ‘tribe’ we build around us in this age of increasing disconnectedness. The positive and negative spaces, inversions and cut-outs in the work are intended to symbolise degrees of self-disclosure and nuanced ways in which the authentic self and public persona differ when connecting and relating to others. Fragility is referenced in both the subject of the individual and the choice of materials; cardboard substrate and thin, delicate Japanese kozo paper. Variation of tone, texture and mark making in the multiple layering of varying printing techniques references identity camouflage to fit into society.

Angela Hayson’s multidisciplinary art practice is informed by her interest in human connection and interaction within a group, and the awareness of one’s individuality and separateness from others.

Her work is focused on the notion of dual identities and the extent to which individuals preserve their core identity to remain authentic to self and at the same time make subtle shifts in how they present in social situations to gain acceptance.

Hayson lives and works in Sydney, has exhibited nationally and internationally with work held in private and public collections. She completed a Bachelor of Fine Art (Honors) from the National Art School, Sydney (2005) and a Master of Art from the University of NSW Art and Design (2010).