Hateley’s artistic vision goes beyond conventional representations of the human figure. He sought to create sculptures that reflect the intricate wonders of nature on the very surface of these figures. To achieve this, he began incorporating colors and textures inspired by nature, from the shapes of leaves to fingerprints and even delicate cherry blossoms, evolving his work over time.
Before establishing his independent studio practice, Hateley worked in a commercial workshop that produced sculptures for television, theater, and film – a fast-paced environment. However, over time, he felt a strong inclination to slow down and emphasize experimentation, drawing inspiration from his regular walks in nature. Although his focus has been on the human figure for over a decade, Hateley initially resisted this style. He began with wildlife subjects, gradually transitioning into organic forms with intricate details sculpted onto the surfaces of his artworks. Notably, between 2010 and 2011, he completed a remarkable 365-day project consisting of tiny bas-reliefs, which were eventually incorporated into a singular monolithic piece.
Hateley initially worked with bronze using the cold-cast method, also known as bronze resin. This process involves mixing bronze powder with resin to create a paint-like substance, which is then applied to the inside of a mold crafted from the original clay sculpture. This naturally led him to foundry casting, or lost-wax casting, a method where an original sculpture can be reproduced in metal. The initial design and sculpting phase can take up to four months from start to finish, followed by casting and hand-finishing, which typically requires an additional three months to complete.
Currently, Hateley is immersed in a series inspired by a photo shoot with a West End dancer. This reference helps him achieve the anatomical precision required for extended torsos and limbs in his sculptures. He describes one of these pieces as a figure reaching upward, symbolizing hope for better times. He envisions her as a plant growing from a seed, eventually blooming with oblong, cell-like shapes gradually merging into circular reds and oranges. He is also presently crafting a sculpture of a ballet pose in clay, capturing a person in a serene, restful state as if floating in a calm sea, becoming one with the waves.
Jonathan Hateley’s artwork will be featured at the Affordable Art Fair in Hong Kong with Linda Blackstone Gallery and will be part of the “Art & Soul” exhibition at The Artful Gallery in Surrey and the “Summer Exhibition 2023” at Talos Art Gallery in Wiltshire from June 1 to 30. He will also showcase his work at the Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival from July 3 to 10. For more information and updates on his creative process, you can visit his website and follow him on Instagram.
