Inspirations and Mentors

First inspirations were from family.

Her Biological father Gary H.

Gary was a talented and skilled local Orange County artist back in the 60's and 70's. He never realized his full potential which is why Heather feels so compelled to strive for whatever success that can be accomplished, for herself and for him. Here are some of Gary's original works: 

 

Next is her Adopted Dad, Earl Y.

Earl was also very creative and talented art wise. Drawing, design layout, painting but only for fun and relaxation. He saw in Heather, artist talents very early on when he joined her family. That first Christmas as a blended family, Heather remembers that she wanted a pair of roller skates so badly.  The box with her name on it, under that tree was the right size and weight (yes she tested it) for a pair of the roller skates she so desperately wanted. Christmas morning comes, Heather's so excited because she just KNOW it's skates... then when she open it, she was trying not to show disappointment... but in the box is a complete set of acrylic, oil and watercolor paint sets, with brushes, canvases and a certificate for private art lessons.

Okay, that 12 year old girl was disappointed that is wasn't roller skates... but Heather's new dad, Earl KNEW that she NEEDED this type of gift, push and opportunity.  That was the real start of her art journey! Thank you Dad!  Heather really needed that! 

In later years, Dad-Earl helped create display boards and magnetic sheet metal displays for Young Artist Workshops.  He was also the inspiration for the popular "Hobbit" themed sessions with his personal first edition copy J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit" and his ideas of what type of art projects could be incorporated into this themed sessions. His help with set-up, tear down and attendance at the Gallery Nights were so appreciated. 

 

High School & College Years: 

Professor Erin O'Shea - 

 

Actually Erin O'Shea has been inspiring Heather since early childhood, as they are cousins.

Heather was so impressed that Erin's parents (Heather's Aunt/Uncle) let her draw/paint on her bedroom walls.  Erin had total creative freedom when it came to her personal bedroom space.  This was something that Heather really admired and was blown away by.  Yes - paint it over when the child is done expressing themselves!!!  Heather LOVES that concept.

Erin and Heather also had a few college art classes together and Heather while older than Erin, really was inspired, motivated and encouraged by Erin. They also shared many memories, stages of life and transitions while being mothers together, learning how to grow your own identity while being a mother, and the process of becoming  successful female artists.

Heather regards Erin as one of her major influences both personally, family wise and professionally. Thank you for your part in my life. You are a treasure. 

This is Erin O'Sheas website: www.osheaqueervergence.com

 

 

Professor Chris Gwaltney - Professor Chris Gwaltney was one of the first teachers to help Heather understand abstract and contemporary art styles and techniques. The first class she took from him was fairly challenging and she didn't yet understand the concepts and the techniques Prof. Gwaltney was teaching. In the second class, Heather was able to finally break through and find an understanding of abstract, contemporary and free expression art.  His instruction and inspiration were instrumental in Heather's journey with art.  But his influence was also critical in Heather and her partner teaching with the Young Artists Workshops instructing over 300+ students, 4-15years old about art concepts, techniques and hands-on experimentation.   Many years later, Heather is honored to pay respect to one of her original mentors in this area of art and technique. Thank you, Prof. Gwaltney for being that spring board for the future. 

This is Professor Chris's Website: ChrisGwaltney.com

Mom/Teaching Years: 

 

Husband Rudy G - 

Early in their dating years, Rudy was a supporter of Heather's art journey and always encouraged her to follow her dreams.  He actively planned trips to museums, galleries, local art fairs and the like to inspire Heather's creativity.  Many of their vacations included sites, events involving local artists, activities and cultural adventures that are also meant to add to Heather's (and their family's education and exposure to art in many forms).  Over their 30+ years together, Rudy has been very patient and accommodating with regards to art supplies, materials, equipment, tools, scraps of paper, paint, chalk, etc. etc. occupying different parts of the house and garage (now a portion of that garage affectionately called "The Workshop").  Heather's art journey would not have been the same without his constant, loyal and amazing encouragement, support, belief in her abilities, skills and passion.  He is her Knight in Shining Armor.

 

    

Tara C - Tara and Heather met when their families bought condos in the same brand new neighborhood. They quickly found kindred spirits in how they approached life, motherhood and art. Tara was an accredited teacher who encouraged Heather to apply to become a contracted teacher to share Heather's wealth of knowledge and passion for art. They began to teach together at their local elementary school, which lead into them starting and co-owning Young Artists Workshops, that lead unique and comprehensive art camps for children 4-15 years old. They were a good pair, each having different sets of skills and strengths with regards to art, creativity, teaching styles and really reaching the kids. Tara has remained a close friend, confidant, inspiration and source of support for Heather over the last 20 years! Thanks to Tara, Heather was motivated and had the teaching experiences that she had! What amazing memories

Denise Hughes - Denise was a teacher to both of Heather's children when they were in elementary school. Heather was also Denise's Room Parent/Representative, volunteered in Denise's classroom and was able to use Denise's contacts/leads to get Heather's son into a charter middle school.  They have stayed in contact for over 16 years.   Heather considers Denise a huge inspiration with regards to teaching (Heather used many of Denise's techniques in her Young Artist Workshops), child development education, parent resources and a positive force in Heather's family.  This has, over the years, also grown into a support for Heather's art and creativity.  Thank you, Denise for being the inspiration that you've been. 

Heather's Kids - 

 

New Business Venture in 2023: 

Sara Nelson - Heather and Sara met when Sara and family moved in the neighborhood.  Over the years they developed a friendship based on family, shared project and art interests.  They began to collaborate on mutual projects and give each other support in their individual projects.  Before Heather inherited her father, Earl's tools, Heather was always borrowing tools, supplies and materials from Sara and her garage full of "wonders."  Heather really appreciates Sara's perspective on things as they come from somewhat opposite political and religious backgrounds.  It's nice to be able to compare, debate, question and learn from each other in a respectful and honoring way.  Thank you, Sara for being a constant support, inspiration and collaborator over the years! You are amazing!

Tania Y

Tania's business information is: www.facebook.com/twistedheart.puppetworks

Rene T - At first a fellow vendor at "Pop-Up" events, then as an organizer of macabre themed vendor events - The Macabre Mysterium, then a business start-up mentor - now an on-going inspiration and source of support, knowledge, business hints and fellow "weirdo" that enjoys the dark side of art and creativity. Thank you, Rene for leading the way for all of us alternative artists.

Rene's business information is:    @themacabremysterium

Nikki Jones - Heather met Nikki when Heather's daughter was involved in roller derby for 6 years.  Traveling for tournaments and annual competitions. Nikki was a "bad-ass" (wink, wink) team coach and mentor to the derby community.  Nikki also had a beautiful and intelligent son that reminded Heather of her son years before. Over the years through social media contacts (being states away), Heather and Nikki have found common ground with regards to family, parenting, derby, creativity and starting new businesses and female empowerment.  Thank you, Nikki for also being so raw, honest and encouraging.  For not being afraid to be authentic. You truly are an inspiration. 

Nikki's business information is: @Shadow_lightparadox

Last but NOT least:

Heather's Mom Barbara Y. -

She been there literally from her birth.

Barbara has been Heather's first and main inspiration, introducing her to art, creativity and imagination early on in life.  Continuing over all the years of changing, growing, maturing, stages of life, motherhood, marriage life, etc. to not only introduced Heather to art, culture, experiences but also to model by example.

Barbara has been active for years in attending and supporting local artists, musicians, dancers, singers, performers.  She has also been instrumental in encouraging her grandchildren to immerse themselves into any and all areas of the arts.  Including taking them to live events, attending their school concerts/plays, etc. and gifting Heather's daughter an electric violin and gifting Heather's son her vintage 40+ year acoustic guitar to encourage their various interests. 

Barbara is also an author herself - with contributions to a  published Memoir Books with her senior group.  

Thank you for being the original rock and for continuing over all these years!