Hue Hale | Visual Artist

Haunting explorations of the human body characterize the visual aesthetic of Hue Hale, a vibrant visual artist currently based in Berlin. Originally from the Northside of Dublin, Hue credits Berlin with the expanding vibrancy of his work in terms of color, lighting, the types of projects he undertakes, and the people he photographs. 

| STYLE AND PURPOSE

Hale’s work is preoccupied with introspection and a deep mindfulness of the human body. One example of this is displayed in his photo series, ‘Touch with your Eyes 目で触る’, a collaboration with fellow Irish artist Rebecca Flynn, which is explained as follows: “A body belongs to the person who resides within it. However, when the body is placed in the public arena, its ownership can become destabilized. The gaze of most, if not all viewers, consciously or not, fetishizes and objectifies.”

The therapeutic aspect of Hue’s work is a potent driver for him, as it brings upon a compulsion to create something meaningful out of the harsh themes that surround his pieces. Whilst partaking in his creations, he gains insight into himself and the specific issues each project is about. For instance, in his piece, “He Wasn’t There”, Hue explores issues of identity while in a codependent relationship. The accompanying description for this art piece reads, “I was born in Ireland on the cusp of homosexuality being decriminalized, although attitudes where changing and becoming more positive towards the LGBTQ community, I was raised with conflicting ideals. These ideals have had a direct impact on my identity growing up. I was never taught about how same-sex relationships should function, or how two men could love each other romantically”. 

| ADVICE

While his work functions as an emotional release, this doesn’t speak to a lack of discipline. When asked for advice, Hue offers, “Keep making art. Just keep creating, there doesn’t have to be an end goal and it doesn’t always have to be about some significant issue. As long as you’re making art, you’re on the right track.”

Seeing people react to his work in real time at his first solo show is counted among Hue’s most rewarding experiences. His aesthetic eye, work ethic, and aptitude for reflection ensure he will experience many more shows, and garner much more material. You can see his work on Instagram @huehale, or on his website: https://huehale.online/.

Written By

Tristan Dominguez

Tristan is an innately curious autodidact with a focus on the humanities. Over two decades he’s written for a variety of passion projects, work characterized by diligent research and conscientious use of language. You can read some of his essays here: https://soundmind.substack.com/

Edited by | Katherine Berg | @kurleykath

Katherine is an artist, vegan activist, and the founder and curator of Creating Freely Magazine. She’s passionate about living on her own terms and maximizing her potential!