Heather Haynes describes herself as a contemporary folk impressionist. Her unique style draws inspiration from nature and everyday objects. The paintings have a loose, stylized feel, infused with the intriguing sense of a timeless peace.

In life as in her art, Haynes is at heart a happy fatalist. “What happens is meant to happen,” she says. “Painting is about taking chances and trusting your instincts; you shouldn’t think too much.”

Technique
Haynes’ paintings are process driven, and her imagery depends heavily on her technique. She uses acrylics and various glazes, often integrating stenciled forms and subtle text. She builds up the paintings in layers that refer to her themes of dualities – juxtaposing inside and out.

Her use of lace adds an interior element, reminiscent of old curtains and wallpaper. The subtle writing adds another interior dimension. The entire composition is finished with a thick, clear glaze sealing all the elements together.

Biography
Heather Haynes lives in a refurbished old schoolhouse in the picturesque Thousand Islands district of Ontario, Canada. Along with her husband and their two sons she enjoys all the pleasures of country living. As a child, a visual disorder impaired her reading, and her schoolwork suffered. Surprisingly, Haynes excelled in art class, and the subject became her heartfelt focus. Her parents were supportive of her love of art, and after high school she enrolled in the visual arts program at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. Haynes was determined to be a visual artist. She began selling funky hats and little paintings at a local market. The paintings became increasingly popular and her husband’s decision to purchase and renovate the old schoolhouse included the building of a fully equipped studio.

Her first shows were bi-annual exhibitions held at her studio. These were met with great enthusiasm by local collectors, and the young artist soon developed an ardent following. Before long, she was showing in galleries in nearby Kingston and in Toronto. In addition to her paintings, Haynes has illustrated two acclaimed children’s books with art lover and author Joanne Langlois.

The last few years have seen the artist’s work gain international attention. Her paintings are in many private and corporate collections and she is featured in select galleries in Canada, Britain and the United States.