Today we’d like to introduce you to Hayley Moree.
Hi Hayley, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I have always loved studying and creating art. After feeling a little low in the routine of my full-time job, I challenged myself to shake up my creative side by working on one new art project a month. My first piece was a small abstract painting that I framed in my home and kept quiet that it was mine.
A few weeks later, a friend saw the piece and offered to buy it off of me…I refused (I wanted to keep art close and fun, and did not think I was good enough to share yet).
After they persisted, I made my art piece for the month a larger abstract painting with the intent of sharing it with them. My friend, Ben, loved it and purchased it for his home. He shared it with co-workers and friends on Instagram. Before I knew it I had a few messages asking for commissions. I was extremely hesitant and nervous to start sharing my work, but thankful when I finally did.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not exactly, I went into the art business fairly blind and faced several challenges along the way (as any new business does). I came to realize the art is the easy part, it’s everything else that is hard! I cried the first time a piece was crushed and ripped in the mail, and spent many frustrating days attempting to build frames and stretch canvas. I went through countless nights of trial and error trying to make a project work or paint a commission that was just right for a space.
Although, I can confidently say I am now much savvier with a saw and the U.S. postal service – but not without a fair amount of mistakes along the way. Despite the challenges, when a client loves their piece and decides to live with it every day, it is a great honor and gives me the confidence to keep creating.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a Nashville-based artist working primarily with acrylic and oil sticks to create layered and texture-filled pieces. Using vibrant color combinations influenced by nature and torn pages from my favorite travel and food magazines, I pull inspiration from the feeling of experience.
I work mainly in large-scale format with gestural marks, broad brush strokes, and expressive movement. My main goal is to leave viewers feeling warm and enlivened by the art.
You can view pieces at Axiom Gallery and Alabaster Collective. Or just reach out and schedule a time to stop by my studio space in East Nashville!
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Yes! Once returning to Nashville my friend who insisted on purchasing my first painting found a great spot to open a gallery/studio space. We have been hosting other artists (music and visual arts) since March. It has been a really sweet full-circle moment. Check us out on Instagram @axiomgallery.
Contact Info:
- Website: hayleymoree.com
- Instagram: @hayley.moree
Image Credits
Hayley Moree
Emma Delevante
