Hattie Malcomson

Hattie Malcomson is a contemporary artist living and working in the United Kingdom. Delving into themes of sexuality, liberation and womanhood, Malcomson presents flamboyant female figures that defy the traditional 'male gaze' associated with the art historical genre. Her vibrant, impastoed compositions challenge societal perceptions, leaving viewers with a provocative reflection on our collective self-image.

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Malcomson's paintings consist of female figures stemming from mythological, archetypal and allegorical ideals. Employing a humorous subversion of these stereotypical stories of women, Malcomson unearths the falsehoods of these universal beliefs stating, "I am interested in making connections between past and present as the myths are brought into a new context and the divinity or evil that they have projected onto women in this Madonna-whore dichotomy are unpacked". Coalescing sensual depictions with grotesque iconography, Malcomson's paintings simultaneously attract and repulse her audience. Enacting a performance in which her body is her inspiration, Malcomson wears these figures as a 'mask', provocatively and justifiably communicating the impact and relevancy these seemingly archaic and absurd stories have on our views of women in this contemporary age. "This is to say that although ridiculous and absurd, these stories are still present, despite our arrogance to think they are tiresome and banal ideas of the past."

Malcomson has exhibited her work in Los Angeles as well as various parts of  the United Kingdom. She is currently studying for her MA in painting at the Royal College of Arts, she also received the Cass Art in Phoenix Studio Award in 2020.