Sophie Hayes

Using large format analogue photography, moving image and installation, Sophie Hayes explores how the physical qualities of specific locations can act as vehicles for psychological experiences.

Her works often exist within the factual guise of the document, but through her choice of place, use of sound and editing, her photographs and films can evoke a sense of catastrophic drama.

Exploring sites ranging from a mundane rural fly tip to vast stone quarries on the Isle of Portland, from museum storage facilities across Europe to the derelict and vandalised skeletons of abandoned naval accommodation blocks, Hayes’ interest lies in how the representation of these depopulated sites can induce internal states in the viewer.

Hayes has exhibited internationally showing work in solo and group exhibitions in public venues in the UK, Czechia, France, Iceland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and USA. Hayes has also undertaken major residencies in Europe including at the Centre of Contemporary Arts, Prague, Czechia; Staranzano, Italy; and Edsvik Konsthall, Sweden.

Hayes is a Programme Leader BA Fine Arts at the University of the West of England, Bristol.