JOHN HOYLAND
‘When one is young and has experienced a good deal of rejection, you want to show everyone how tough you are. Later you want to show how clever you are. Later still, you want to see how far you can push yourself. And finally, you don’t give a f**k about anything, you just want to howl at the moon.’
John Hoyland, 2006 (sketchbook entry dated 2.04.06)
John Hoyland (1934–2011)
Early Life and Background
John Hoyland (1934–2011) was one of Britain’s leading abstract painters, renowned for his bold use of colour and dynamic compositions. Born in Sheffield, Hoyland studied at the Sheffield School of Art before moving on to the Royal Academy Schools in London. His early work leaned towards figurative painting, but exposure to the works of American Abstract Expressionists, such as Mark Rothko and Barnett Newman, led him to abandon representation in favour of pure abstraction.
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John Hoyland and Damien Hirst’s Relationship
Damien Hirst has often cited John Hoyland as a major influence on his work, admiring his fearless use of colour and emotive abstraction. Hirst was instrumental in reviving interest in Hoyland’s legacy, curating the 2015 exhibition ‘Power Stations’ at his Newport Street Gallery, which introduced Hoyland’s work to a new generation of art enthusiasts. Despite their different approaches—Hirst’s conceptual rigor versus Hoyland’s visceral expressionism—their mutual respect was evident. Hirst once described Hoyland’s paintings as “brave, uncompromising, and beautiful,” emphasising their emotional impact and raw energy.
Inspirations and Motivations
Hoyland was heavily influenced by the energy and scale of American abstract painters, yet he maintained a distinctly European sensibility. His work embraced an emotional intensity, using colour and form as a means of expression rather than mere decoration. He rejected the notion that abstract art should be non-referential, believing instead that it could evoke deep human experiences and emotions. Throughout his career, he experimented with different techniques, from thin washes to thick impasto, always seeking new ways to energise the canvas.
Most Famous Exhibitions
Hoyland exhibited extensively throughout his career, with key shows including:
1967: Whitechapel Gallery, London – This solo show cemented his reputation as a major force in British abstraction.
1979: Serpentine Gallery, London – A retrospective highlighting his evolution from the 1960s to the late 1970s.
1999: Tate St Ives – Showcasing his later works, which became more gestural and textural.
2015: ‘Power Stations’ at Newport Street Gallery – Curated by Damien Hirst, this posthumous exhibition brought Hoyland’s work to a new generation of art lovers.
Recent Market Value
Hoyland’s market has grown significantly in recent years, partly due to renewed interest from collectors and institutions. Recent auction results have seen his major paintings sell for upwards of £200,000–£500,000, with rare pieces fetching even higher. His connection to Hirst and his lasting influence on contemporary abstraction have contributed to this rising demand.
Legacy and Importance
Hoyland remains a towering figure in British abstraction, celebrated for his fearless approach to painting and his ability to convey deep emotion through colour. His works continue to inspire contemporary artists and collectors alike, ensuring that his legacy endures beyond his lifetime.
