Rhys Hayden

I am Rhys Hayden, a freelance artist and digital illustrator based in London, with strong creative roots in Switzerland and frequent stays in Basel.

I studied Art and Design & Game Design at Uxbridge in London from 2008 – 2012. After graduating, I spent several years on study trips and in voluntary and charity work. Since 2015 I work independently as an freelance artist.

My work involves illustrations and game art, combining imagination, observation and a deep appreciation for the small details that bring subjects to life. I love character-focused design, particularly when nuanced expression and imperfect details make the character’s story feel real.

From the time I was a kid, I knew I wanted to be an artist – drawing and painting has always been the way I make sense of the world. Growing up in London shaped my eye for everyday moments and visual rhythm, while my love of nature – especially the sea – continues to influence my mood, lighting, and atmosphere. Switzerland adds a different kind of inspiration.

Born in 1990, I draw much of my inspiration from between the 1980s and 2000s, creating retro-leaning artwork in a semi-realistic style.

Alongside personal work, I create clear, engaging visuals for different contexts, including corporate and book illustration, as well as 2D concept art for games – covering character design, diegetic props & items, and UI art (HUD & menus).

I understand artistic practice as carrying a social responsibility as well as an aesthetic one. Accordingly, I pay close attention to questions of inclusion, equality, and representation in the contexts my work enters. My aim is to contribute to cultural spaces that foster acceptance—particularly with regard to LGBTQ+ communities— by helping to shape narratives that are attentive, respectful, and ethically considered.

Outside the studio, I enjoy vegetarian food 🥗, the teal colour of the English sea 🌊🩵, and cheese 🧀.