James Hayward, born in 1943 in San Francisco, California, is a prominent contemporary abstract painter currently residing and working in Moorpark, California. His artistic practice is deeply rooted in the rich tradition of abstract painting, drawing inspiration from influential figures such as Malevich and Mondrian, as well as artists like Reinhardt and Ryman.

Hayward's body of work can be broadly categorized into two distinct phases: flat paintings (1975-1984) and thick paintings (1984 to the present). This division reflects significant shifts in his artistic approach, to monochrome paintings, over the years.

During the period of flat paintings (1975-1984), Hayward created artworks that emphasized a two-dimensional plane. This phase saw exploration of color, form, and composition within the constraints of a flat surface. The artist's engagement with this style showcased his mastery of the brush surface.

The subsequent phase, characterized by thick paintings (1984 to the present), suggests a departure from the flatness of the canvas. Hayward's focus on creating a textured and layered surface indicates more emphasizes on marking as the essential aspect the work. During this time, there were two bodies of flat work, both painted horizontally. These were the NOTHING’S PERFECT PAINTINGS and the EBONIES.

Hayward's artistic practice is marked by a commitment to working in series. Some of these series are ongoing, illustrating a sustained exploration of particular themes and concepts. Among his notable series are "The Annunciations," "The Stations of the Cross," the "Red Maps," "Fire Paintings," "Smoke Paintings," "Sacred and Profane," and the "Nothing's Perfect" paintings.

Each series represents a unique exploration and expression of Hayward's artistic vision. The diversity of series indicates Hayward's versatility as an artist, capable of navigating various themes and conceptual frameworks. His body of work invites viewers to engage with the evolving nature of abstract art, paying homage to historical influences while pushing the boundaries of contemporary expression.

Hayward has exhibited widely in numerous solo and group shows, including Under the Big Black Sun: California Art 1974-1981, Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, CA (2011); Recent Paintings (Curated by Mike Kelley), Cue Art Foundation, New York, NY (2005); Awards in the Visual Arts 10, Hirshhorn Museum, Washington D.C. (1991); Images of an Era, Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, CA (1996); James Hayward/Peter Lodato/John McLaughlin, Los Angeles Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, CA (1979); and New Abstract Painting in Los Angeles: Cole/Hayward/Miller/Omar, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Los Angeles, CA  (1976). His work is held in a number of permanent private and public institutional collections including the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, CA; Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Los Angeles, CA; San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, San Francisco, CA; Denver Museum of Modern Art, Denver, CO; Albright-Knox Gallery, Buffalo, NY; Minneapolis Institute of the Arts, Minneapolis, IL; Orange County Museum of Art, Newport Beach, CA and the Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH, among many others.