Artist Statement
Hazel’s paintings depict Derbyshire’s varied landscape, with many completed on-location using acrylics or oils. She captures quiet unassuming landscapes that explore the subtle moods of the seasons, exploring forgotten corners and unusual views away from the beaten path.
She studied Fine Art at Aberystwyth University and spent three years touring the winter landscape with easel and paints, often in very poor weather. "I insisted in working plein-air so many of my paintings at that time featured a receding lane, as I had retreated to my car from the cold Welsh weather! Term time spanned three winters so my palette became very accustomed to the subtle hues of leafless trees and ice cold skies. Just wonderful!"
Though offered a place to continue her studies at Masters level, she decided instead to focus her efforts in the real world by opening her own studio, in Eyam Hall Craft Centre. Never intended to be a long term occupation, it opened up a world of opportunities and experience dealing directly with the public. "Forget the traditional educational institution if you really want to learn to be an artist," she says, pointing at the view out of the window "you learn far, far more out there in the real world, running a business! Now that's a qualification!"
In 2020 Hazel designed and published a book “Castleton in Quarantine” featuring drawings from the first two months of lockdown. The time was an ideal opportunity to explore tone, texture and contrast using just a graphite pencil and paper.
Now working from her studio in Clay Cross, she recently opened The "King’s Head Studio" which specialises in painting and printmaking workshops for small groups. Visitors can learn the art of intaglio or relief printmaking; take lessons in painting with oils, acrylics or watercolours; or explore the wonderful world of graphite to develop drawing skills. "I spent many years learning through patient observation, trial and error, and studying the work of others. Now I've gained half a lifetime of knowledge, I'm just passionate about passing it on to others."
She currently runs and teaches for Field Breaks Art, a leading provider of art and craft workshops based at The Art Room in Barlow, near Dronfield, Derbyshire. Visiting artists deliver courses in painting, botanical illustration printmaking, jewellery and textiles. Hazel also hosts an on-line art club during the winter months.
Hazel is available to host workshops, talks and demonstrations to groups and clubs in a variety of subjects and mediums.
