Sharon Walters: Seeing Ourselves | Hackelbury Fine Art
Exhale, 2024 © Sharon Walters (Courtesy of HackelBury Fine Art, London)
Written by Lauren Levesque
The Hackelbury Fine Art Gallery is thrilled to unveil Sharon Walters' first solo London exhibition, ‘Seeing Ourselves.’ Walters' show is a profound and creative journey, immersed in many emotions. ‘Seeing Ourselves’ is a collection of artwork from a more extensive ongoing series that the artist has meticulously crafted, “My work aims to explore and indulge in the multiplicity of Blackness and the embrace of our non-monolithic experiences.” (Sharon Walters). This unique perspective is beautifully reflected in her delicate and thoughtfully curated art, which has the power not just to transform viewers' perspectives but also to give voice to the silent stories of women, leaving a lasting impression on all who experience it. The exhibition will be from 10th May to 6th July 2024.
‘Exhale’ by Sharon Walters is captivating and calming. Upon viewing, the eyes wander across the image, settling upon detailed purple flowers that are weaved through vines and leaves on a woman's body. The white lines that almost give the impression of carving cascade down the creation and interlock within the flowers and body below. The facial expression on the woman's face is a mixture of peace and sadness as it feels like forced silence has been pushed upon her. Everything about the work is organized and pristine, which permits vulnerability.
Georgian triptych, 2024 © Sharon Walters (Courtesy of HackelBury Fine Art, London)
‘Georgian triptych’ is fun, loud, and oozes quirkiness. Walters's multilayering collage and cutouts come in at full force. The vibrant colors in the artwork emit a positive and energetic vibe, almost audible to the viewer. The portraits' mixed and patterned clothing glows, creating a sun-kissed ambiance. The sense of exploring different identities is apparent, and it is a piece that puts a smile on your face.
Through the eyes of a child, 2023 © Sharon Walters (Courtesy of HackelBury Fine Art, London)
‘Through the eyes of a child’ captures the emotion that the title brings exceptionally well. The piece invokes an older presence as the viewer can see the image of a mature figure in the background behind the cut-out of a child. The creation feels very restrictive and bound as two dual perspectives are at play. The piece conveys a sense of being constrained but offers hindsight and wisdom.
Unveiling History, 2024 © Sharon Walters (Courtesy of HackelBury Fine Art, London)
‘Unveiling History’ is one of the most contrasting pieces. This piece emanates a distinct energy compared to the previous ones." It feels historic just to look at and observe. It feels like it was crafted in a different time, making it remarkable. Its dimensions add texture and the idea that the viewer can be transported to a different portal.
