Hazelle Palmer: Lived Experience

2gallery is excited to present a solo show of new mixed-media paintings by Hazelle Palmer. This extraordinary collection of paper collage and acrylic works, entitled Lived Experience, captures the flurry of emotions and experiences which occurred during the pandemic. From mundane tasks to times missed with lovers, family, and friends, the collection reflects Hazelle’s own sense of isolation and discomfort over the past two years. She has created a body of work that captures moments of longing – and more importantly belonging.

“I’ve always been fascinated by mixed media and specifically ways to blend patterned papers into my work. This collection features a series of unique collages that incorporate Japanese papers and other imprints that add texture and depth to the acrylic paintings.”

Hazelle Palmer is a Toronto-based artist whose work embodies the diversity of her lived experiences. She is drawn to a dynamic palette of rich, rustic tones that evoke the colours and memories of her childhood experiences in the 1970s, and celebrate the tropical hues often associated with her Caribbean heritage. Fascinated by the ways in which she can add depth to her work, Hazelle explores how colour is used to define identity and how the use of texture and patterns bring those identities to life. Her work is always evolving – from abstract to collage to figurative depictions. However, central in each is an element of imperfection – often visible in how she blends colour, layers paper in collages, or the sometimes-awkward positions of the figures in her work which suggests the challenges we all face in fitting in. 

Lived Experience runs May 6-June 6. There will be an opening reception on Friday May 6 from 5 to 7 PM. A conversation with the artist will be held Saturday May 7 from 1-2 PM.