ARTIST STATEMENT
As an artist navigating the multifaceted roles of wife, mother, and daughter, I am deeply inspired by the complexities of the feminine experience within American society. Through my paintings, I seek to explore themes of identity, sexuality, love, loss, vulnerability, and grief. My goal is to create works that challenge traditional notions of beauty and femininity, inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of womanhood in a deeper, more nuanced way.
I employ a variety of techniques, including collages and mixed media elements, often referencing historical advertisements to highlight the evolving cultural landscape. My paintings are characterized by bold colors, expressive brushstrokes, and excessive layering, creating a sensual and visceral experience. I aim to capture the multifaceted nature of womanhood, often juxtaposing elements of beauty with a sense of oversaturation and stimulation, reflecting the societal pressures placed upon women.
Ultimately, I hope my work will resonate with viewers, encouraging them to consider the complexities of the feminine experience and to appreciate the diverse and dynamic nature of womanhood.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Hillarey Breedlove is a female painter who creates large-scale, bold, expressive, multifaceted paintings that explore themes of identity, sexuality, and consumerism. The female experience and the oversaturation of unrealistic feminine ideals within American culture inspire her.
Hillarey Breedlove is from Knoxville, Tennessee, where she attended the University of Tennessee and earned her BFA in painting and drawing with a Minor in Art History in 2003. After graduating, she married her High School sweetheart and became an Army spouse, granting her the opportunity to live and travel across the globe. She currently resides in Suffolk, Virginia, where she is the Executive Director of Suffolk Art League, a non-profit arts organization. She continues to create and exhibit in local galleries in both group and solo exhibitions throughout the Hampton Roads, Virginia area.
© Hillarey Breedlove