As a socially engaged artist, Hayley West focuses on themes of death and memorialisation. Her work spans performance, sculpture, video, and installation to explore the realities of grief, the inevitability of death, and the acceptance of mortality. Drawing from personal experiences and artistic practice, she delves into the impact of death on individuals and those left behind.

Working in the public realm, Hayley is committed to empowering communities through sharing practical knowledge and fostering generosity. With over 20 years of experience in research, exhibitions, and residencies both nationally and internationally, her practice continues to evolve and engage audiences globally.

Hayley has hosted DEAD AIR a weekly, live radio show on 94.9MAINfm since Nov 2021 and is Vice-President of the committee; co-hosted Death Cafés 2013-23; is a committee member of the Natural Death Advocacy Network; and was previously on the Historical Castlemaine Cemetery Trust 2018-22. She is an active supporter of the Australian Home Funeral Alliance and the Queer as Death Collective. Hayley also works at La Trobe University Library, Bendigo.

The Departure was once a studio & advocacy space located at The Mill. It currently exists in a transient form without a fixed location. Please contact Hayley regarding art-related commissions such as bespoke ceramic ashes urns. She can also recommend reputable funeral industry businesses and individuals working in end-of-life care, other contemporary artists working in the realm of death, and advise on running a Death Café in your community.

COMING SOON! 

Looking for a meaningful, personalised farewell that reflects your creativity, free spirit, and values?

I’ll be offering bespoke funeral services for environmentally and budget conscious people, designed to honour individuality.

Details to follow...