- 作者：Hope Milo，澳大利亚大学传媒专业学生
Exploring themes of water and imagination through abstract art, a new collection of works speaks to the human connection.
A year in the making, Kristin Hatland’s latest exhibition, 潮起潮落, opened in Uxbridge Art and Culture’s Malcolm Smith Gallery on October 11.
The Clevedon-based artist reflects on how her journey and the people she’s encountered have shaped her work.
“I was born and raised in Norway and have since migrated to New Zealand via bonny Scotland and England,” Hatland says, recalling the path that eventually led her to Howick.
After working numerous full-time jobs across a range of sectors, a significant loss shifted her focus toward her true passion.
“The loss of my father made me reconsider what the content of my life should include, which turned out to be more art.”
The inspiration for 潮起潮落 came from discussions with curator and Uxbridge director Paul Brobbel.
“We sat down talking about art in general and then more specifically about photographic art and books of inspiration.”
This had Hatland exploring the significance of water, drawing on readings such as Pliny the Elder’s Natural History: A Selection.
“We as humans are bags of water,” she says, noting the interconnectedness of all living things with water in its various forms.
Her artistic approach also draws from historical influences.
“I investigated a few options before settling on making work with the historic background championed by Anna Atkins and her Cyanotypes.”
The new exhibition’s abstract nature is meant to engage the audience’s imagination.
"潮起潮落 considers a number of themes wrapped up into an overarching theme,” Hatland says, adding the artworks are largely influenced by philosophical ideas on imagination.
Hatland expresses gratitude for the support she’s received, especially from Brobbel.
“I feel very grateful that my work has been considered worthy of a public display,” she says.
Hatland also acknowledges John Kiely, a British photographer, for his “incredibly generous” support, and her partner, Dr Grant, for being a “healthy soundboard” during the creative process.
For Hatland, the goal of the exhibition is to inspire viewers.
“That their own individual imagination has been stimulated in a positive way,” she says, urging people to see creativity not only as a tool for enriching life, but as a crucial step to experiencing life itself.
潮起潮落 is open for public viewing at the Uxbridge’s Malcolm Smith Gallery in Howick until November 16.
More of Hatland’s work can be purchased at the Art Industry in Clevedon, or online from Saatchi Art.
