Gillian Hyland

Forget Me Not, 2017 by Gillian Hyland
Lambda fine art print

Size, editions and prices vary
45 x 60 inches
Edition of 6
£5,500

Courtesy the artist and After Nyne Gallery

London-based Irish photographer Gillian Hyland is known for her compelling, meticulously styled, timeless works. Detailed, rich in colour and theatrical, her images are composed in such a way as to suggest a larger narrative within a single moment.
 Having worked across film, television, fashion and advertising, Hyland’s amassed a collection of valuable skills that she employs in her photographic work. She designs interesting sets, sources exciting props and costumes, scouts unusual locations, makes thoughtful choices concerning colour and lighting, and casts compelling subjects. Working closely with her subjects, she allows them space to lose themselves in thought, whilst she watches for subtle changes in their expression to capture on film.
 A trip to India - with its vibrancy and rich traditions - inspired the styling and setting of Forget Me Not. In particular, Hyland was drawn to the way flowers are used in celebrations and to express emotion: a perfect prop for her since she seeks to create psychologically evocative images.
 With his top knot and plaited beard, exquisitely embroidered, perfectly cut jacket, direct gaze and the colourful petals around his eye - drawing the viewer into his soul - Hyland’s work is captivating.
 
For more information: afternynegallery.com / gillianhyland.com

Hedge, issue 54, pp46-51, June 2019