Hayley Axelrad

Hayley Axelrad is a contemporary oil painter whose work transports viewers into hedonistic, often absurd worlds that challenge the myths surrounding success, luxury, and desire. Axelrad holds a Bachelor’s degree in Art History from McGill University and has a background in fashion styling. She studied classical realism at the Academy of Realist Art in Toronto, where she developed a strong technical foundation before evolving her distinct, irreverent style.

Her paintings are a playful yet poignant exploration of the tension between outward perfection and inner discontent. Humor is a defining characteristic of her work, which remains decidedly unpretentious and light-hearted. Axelrad’s characters, frequently holding a drink in one hand and a cigarette in the other, inhabit spaces where excess and vulnerability collide. Her thick, textured oil paintings are distinguished by bold colors and a matte, almost chalk-like finish.

Axelrad’s work has been exhibited in Toronto, New York, Miami, and Los Angeles, and has been featured in Elle Decor and The Globe and Mail.

Hayley Axelrad / Boat RideHayley Axelrad / Boat Ride
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Hayley Axelrad / CultHayley Axelrad / Cult
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Hayley Axelrad / NightHayley Axelrad / Night
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Hayley Axelrad / CarHayley Axelrad / Car
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Hayley Axelrad / DipHayley Axelrad / Dip
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Hayley Axelrad / Good CopHayley Axelrad / Good Cop
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Hayley Axelrad / Speedo
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Hayley Axelrad / First Cig
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Hayley Axelrad / First CarHayley Axelrad / First Car
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Hayley Axelrad / FranceHayley Axelrad / France
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Hayley Axelrad / Bike Ride
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Hayley Axelrad / WhackamoleHayley Axelrad / Whackamole
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Hayley Axelrad / Blue BellsHayley Axelrad / Blue Bells
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Hayley Axelrad / AnthuriumsHayley Axelrad / Anthuriums
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Hayley Axelrad / VultureHayley Axelrad / Vulture
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Hayley Axelrad / HulaHayley Axelrad / Hula
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Hayley Axelrad / 7Hayley Axelrad / 7
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Hayley Axelrad / PoliceHayley Axelrad / Police
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Hayley Axelrad / LautrecHayley Axelrad / Lautrec
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Hayley Axelrad / CakeHayley Axelrad / Cake
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Hayley Axelrad / Green CupHayley Axelrad / Green Cup
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Hayley Axelrad / Night OutHayley Axelrad / Night Out
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Hayley Axelrad / BalletHayley Axelrad / Ballet
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Hayley Axelrad / MuseumHayley Axelrad / Museum
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