We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Heather A. Wolynic a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Heather A., thanks for joining us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

As an artist, I often catch myself thinking about whether I’m really happier in this creative world or if I sometimes wish for a regular job. There have definitely been moments when I’ve considered what it would be like to have a typical 9-to-5, especially during those times when I needed a reliable income and couldn’t quite land a full-time creative gig.

I’ve done my fair share of “regular jobs” in the medical field and retail, but honestly, they left me feeling pretty unfulfilled. Eventually, I made the jump to art education, and that really helped ease my restlessness about not being a full-time painter. Teaching fine art and graphic design reignited that creative spark in me that I thought was fading. There’s something so rewarding about helping kids find their own creativity; it’s like a reminder that when words aren’t enough, art can say it all.

Even though I also work as an art therapist, I still feel a bit of a void when I’m teaching graphic design—it’s that longing for the feel of a paintbrush in my hand. The only time I truly feel fulfilled is when I’m painting. Right now, I’m a resident artist at The Hub on Canal, which is an awesome art gallery in the beautiful seaside town of New Smyrna Beach, FL.

Being around other creatives is such a joy; we just get each other! In that kind of environment, I feel right at home, and it really reinforces my belief that my true happiness lies in being an artist.

Heather A., before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Heather A. Wolynic. I spent my early years enjoying the beautiful Great South Bay, and when I turned 10, my family moved to Commack, NY. Growing up there was a wonderful experience! In 1995, I took a big leap and moved to the charming coastal town of Ponce Inlet, Florida, and it’s been an adventure ever since! As a mother to three amazing sons, my love for art inspired me to follow my dreams and earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the esteemed Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD).

I create mixed media acrylic paintings that blend realism and fantasy in an engaging way. My work features rich, vibrant colors that evoke a sense of freedom and joy—reflecting my personality! Each piece is a little slice of happiness from me.

With over 20 years of experience teaching art, I’ve had the pleasure of working with students of all ages in both primary and secondary schools. I enjoy sharing my skills in drawing, painting, mixed media, graphic design, yearbook creation, and broadcasting. Currently, I’ am one of the resident artist’s at the Hub on Canal in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where I also teach art classes for both adults and children. I’m open to commissions as well, so let’s create something special together.

Additionally, I’ve had the opportunity to apply my artistic skills in graphic design, social media, marketing, and scenic set design for places like Disney World and other exciting attractions in Orlando.

My art work is a celebration of my passion and creativity,

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most fulfilling part of being an artist is the joy I can bring to others through my work. There’s something magical about creating a piece that allows viewers to escape into a different world—one free from stress and worries. I strive to immerse them in a vibrant experience that transports them to another time and place. When clients or viewers share that my artwork evokes those emotions and fills them with happiness, it truly makes my heart soar. That connection is incredibly rewarding and inspires me to keep creating!

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

My artistic journey has been deeply shaped by resilience, particularly during a challenging five-year span filled with health scares and personal turmoil. During that time, I stepped away from painting, feeling as though I had lost touch with my creative spirit. But one day, I realized how much I missed it and decided it was time to reconnect with my passion. I picked up my paintbrush, remembering that art has always served as a therapeutic refuge for me.

The piece I completed is called “Resilience,” and it embodies my experiences, featuring elements that represent the different stages of my life and the hurdles I’ve overcome. Creating this artwork was a profound catharsis, allowing me to express my journey through color and form.

Despite my initial doubts about its impact, “Resilience” has already made its mark, being showcased in two exhibitions: the National Exhibition in Punta Gorda, Florida, for 2024, and Art Spotlight in Ormond Beach, Florida. This experience has reinforced my belief that creativity can thrive even in the toughest times. If you find yourself facing challenges, I wholeheartedly encourage you to pick up your paintbrush or explore your own creative outlet. You may be surprised at the healing and inspiration it can bring!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherw.design/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heather.wolynic/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherwolynic/
• Other: [email protected]