Frequently Asked Questions
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! I work closely with a shipping company to construct custom containers for the artwork, to ensure the artwork is delivered safely and the most ideal shipping quote is agreed upon. A shipped artwork testimonial:
“Heather, we opened 'The Apartment’, and it's GORGEOUS, totally intact and beautiful, thank you!" - A long time devoted Client
"How did you become inspired with your art-making technique?
I fell in love with the traditional printmaking process at Queen’s University. The technical problem-solving involved with creating my prints satisfied my engineering mind, yet I was open to experimenting with colours and layers. After university, I did not have access to the equipment to make my prints, so I developed new ways to create. Late one evening in my studio, I noticed a photo of a city streetscape laying on the floor. It had fallen next to a piece of weathered plywood. I noticed immediately the texture of the plywood echoed the texture of the buildings and something shifted within me. I picked up the wood and began to pry it apart. Using a handsaw, scissors, nails, and glue, I pieced together the composition and realized the textures of the wood by painting the surfaces. My love for printmaking had been replaced with something much more organic and satisfying. Currently, I am exploring how we feel inside of these spaces and how we relate to our surroundings continues to inform my work and how we relate to each other. To learn more about my creative process and journey as an Artist, I invite you to watch my interview video, Creator.
How long does one take? Do you work on one at a time or do you work on several pieces simultaneously?
I create one piece at a time, therefore my energy is focused on the intention within the work. The conceptualizing and research take about a week, and then the building begins. The constructing takes the longest and when assembled, the layers of paint are applied. A small-sized piece will be created within approximately 2 weeks and more complex and detailed composition, such as the commission of Tachara, completion is approximately 2 1/2 months.
Are you able to create an artwork of anywhere? If I have a photograph of a childhood home that no longer exists or an architectural scene of beloved memory from a trip, are you able to work from photographs?
Yes, absolutely! The internet is very helpful as well, if I am unable to visit the actual place, I can use Google Earth. Personal stories and memories about the place also help me imbue the love into the piece. Visit the commission process page to learn more about the steps.
Your pieces are made of wood, how heavy are they? How easy is it to hang the artwork?
Surprisingly they are not as heavy as you might imagine. The heaviest artwork, “As Above So, Below” is approximately 80 lbs. I use 2 heavy-duty D-rings at each corner on the frame of the artwork to ensure the art hangs flush against the wall. Using the appropriate anchors into the wall for the heavier pieces, and professional picture hangers for the smaller works, installation is relatively easy!
How do you recommend caring/cleaning the artwork?
Ideally, the artwork is recommended to be displayed within a space where the room temperature does not fluctuate too much as extreme heat or dampness may cause distress to the integrity of the wood. A well-sunlit room and/or with residential light fixtures is perfectly suited. Occasionally, a light dusting of the surfaces of the artwork with a lint-free cloth, or canned air will also maintain the glow of the artwork.
The occasional bird but no people. Do you ever wonder about the people who occupy your buildings and walk in your streets?
There may be no apparent figures in my work, however, there is an unconditional human presence. With each factory, place of worship, or a humble cottage, I am moved by all who have sheltered within these spaces. I do not just hear their stories, I feel them. I am also very intentional when creating the work, instilling a certain emotion within the piece; hope, optimism, sadness, or joy. I think that is why most people of different ages and backgrounds resonate with the work; there is human emotion within it—-shadow and light.
Where can I view your work in person?
There are several public spaces that have my work on display. For instance, Kitchener City Hall, in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, exhibits a collection of fourteen artworks honouring the industrial heritage of the Waterloo Region.
I welcome people into my studio/showroom to experience the artworks in real life. Seeing the work in person and learning more about the process, offers new perspectives and connections with the work. Please reach out and set up an appointment to visit the showroom!