Artist Statement

There is a moment just before the official blows the whistle, while the crowd is going crazy, I stare down my lane towards the wall at the other end. The noise becomes drowned out by the sound of my own breath and heartbeat. For a moment, my world is still, and this is where I feel the most alive. My goal is to capture this moment in my photography. When you look at my images, I hope you can take a moment to listen to your own heart beating."
-Brent Hayden 2018

Originally from Mission BC, Brent spent 17 years living in Vancouver before he and his wife settled in New Westminster in the summer of 2017. Born in 1983, Brent showed little promise in athletics. Often easily distracted and unable to stay focused, Brent was just doing the things he fell in love with: swimming and photography. During his 10 year international career, which includes 3 Olympic Games, an Olympic Bronze Medal (2012) and a World Championship Gold Medal (2007), Brent quietly pursued his photography passion in his spare time. After retiring from swimming, Brent is continues to be drawn towards the water through his lens.