purely a human endeavor

Next in our line-up of Drive-by Interviews is artist Heather Heckel.

Do you encounter misconceptions about being an artist?

The most frustrating one is that artists enjoy creating artwork for hire for little or no money. I believe that art is a marketable skill, just like any other trade. Also, the "starving artist" is an annoying one because it perpetuates the idea that an artist cannot be successful through his or her talents. There is also a misconception around teaching, "if you can't do, teach". I beg to differ, it should be "if you CAN, teach"! I think the more qualified and experienced the teacher, the better for everyone involved.

Do you have a day job? I am a Commercial Arts teacher and Internship coordinator at the High School of Art and Design in Manhattan. It is a Career and Technical Education school, which focuses just on the visual arts! I teach Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, as well as manage over 40 students at paying internship sites all around New York City. My day job means so much to me. Giving back to students, especially through the arts, gives me purpose and it is extremely rewarding to know that I can make a difference. This also allows me to have the summers off, when I can pursue my own art career full time.

What led you to art? My mom is an artist, so growing up she always had a ton of supplies around, and always encouraged creativity.

What do you think is the function of art in society? Do art or artists have a responsibility to do anything in particular? I think art makes people think, and can give aesthetic meaning to society. Also, it is purely a human endeavor, which appeals to our cognitive thoughts.

Who taught you the most about art? My professors at the Ringling College of Art and Design, where I earned my BFA. I also participated in the Illustration Academy, where I learned a lot.

Who do you strive to be for those around you? Inspiring, dependable, a teacher and an artist.

What simple pleasure brings you the most joy? Walking to and from work, and vegan cooking (and eating!)

What does creating art provide for you? Creating art is like meditation for me, it also gives me purpose. My favorite part of art is capturing a likeness, whether it is a portrait, a landscape or an interior scene.

Heather Heckel is one of 26 artists in our current exhibition: MyScape