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.

Recognitions:
ND Awards 2018 - Honourable Mention
B&W Minimalism Magazine - Issue #12 feature (view online)
ND Awards 2017 - Honourable Mention
Exposure Awards 2015 - ​Finalist

Exhibitions:
"Nothing Witty" (Solo Exhibition) - Mission Arts Centre, 2014
Solo Exhibition presented by Cassera Arts Premiers - Foot Of Main Gallery, 2014
"Time In Frames" (Solo Exhibition) - Mission Arts Centre, June 19 - July 7 2018 (Artist Reception June 23, 1-4pm)

News:
Stanwood Camano News - (Jan 9 2018) Olympic Medalist Brings His Photography To Town (view online)
The Abbotsford News - (Jun 25 2017) Olympian Brent Hayden Featured in a Solo Exhibition of his Photography (view online)
Mission City Record - Jun 9 2017) Brent Hayden's Photography Subject of Solo Art Show (view online)
Vancouver Sun - (Mar 7 2014) Olympic Swimmer Gets Creative With A Camera (view online)

Interviews: