Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Heather Harrington. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Heather, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

As far back as I can remember, I was always creating. My earliest memories are filled with painting ceramics with my grandmother and crafting with my childhood best friend—we’d sell our handmade creations around the neighborhood. A pivotal moment came in middle school, thanks to my art teacher, Mrs. Harp. She saw potential in me and encouraged me to pursue art, igniting a belief in myself that I carry to this day.

Despite my love for art, I initially enrolled in business studies at the University of Toledo, concerned about the practicality of making a living as an artist. But something was missing, and I quickly realized I needed creativity in my life. That year, I switched my major to fine art at UT, and enrolled in their fine art classes which were held at the Toledo Art Museum. After a year, I narrowed my focus to design and transferred to Bowling Green University, I studied graphic design and fine art and received my BFA degree.

That foundation led to a rewarding career in graphic design and marketing. I worked for several companies before launching my own agency, where I served as Creative Director, leading a team of designers and collaborating with national brands. But during the pandemic, like many others, I felt a pull for change. I yearned to reconnect with my artistic roots, to create with my hands and share that joy with others.

That was the beginning of Life and Whim, my studio where I paint expressive, vibrant works and curate workshops to bring people together through creativity. It’s been a full-circle moment for me—returning to what I’ve always loved, inspiring others to find their own happiness through art.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a visual artist, designer, and creative entrepreneur based in Traverse City, Michigan. My journey into art and design began early, fueled by a lifelong passion for creating. After earning my BFA degree with a specialty in graphic design, I spent over 20 years as a Creative Director and co-owner of a design and marketing agency I founded. During that time, I collaborated with national professional services firms and non-profits, leading projects that blended strategic thinking with creative expression. From conceptualizing and designing annual reports to creating new branding, websites and marketing collateral we helped businesses and non-profits project their vision to their audiences.

In 2020, inspired by the desire for a deeper connection to my artistic roots, I transitioned to focusing on fine art. This shift led to the creation of Life and Whim, a studio where I create colorful impressionistic painting and goods, curate creative workshops, and design community-centered projects. My work includes expressive acrylic paintings ranging from landscapes and florals to abstracts and pet portraits. I’m deeply inspired by northern Michigan’s beauty—its colors, textures, and natural patterns often find their way into my art. My goal is to create pieces that not only add beauty to a space but also evoke joy, connection, and a sense of happiness.

What sets my work apart is its blend of expressive storytelling and intentional design. My paintings and designs are bold, colorful, and layered with meaning. I incorporate intricate patterns and textures to infuse depth and personality into each piece. Whether it’s a commissioned landscape painting that captures cherished memories or a workshop that helps someone discover their own creativity, my mission is to inspire happiness through art.

I love hosting art workshops that make creativity accessible and approachable. Each month, I offer a thoughtfully designed class—like painting barn quilts or floral wreaths on canvas—allowing participants to create beautiful, meaningful pieces they’re proud of. In 2025, I’m excited to expand my offerings to include online classes, making these creative experiences accessible to more people, no matter where they are. Additionally, I’ll be introducing a collection of art-inspired notecards, perfect for those looking to share a piece of joy and color through beautifully designed stationery.

I’m most proud of the meaningful connections my art and workshops create, as well as the impact of community projects like the Traverse City Fairy Trails and the Traverse City Street Pianos. These initiatives bring whimsy and happiness into people’s everyday lives while fostering a sense of wonder and imagination.

Above all, I want people to know that my work is about more than just creating art—it’s about fostering joy, connection, and inspiration. Through my paintings, workshops, and shared creative experiences, my mission is to bring a little whim and a lot of happiness into the world with color and creativity.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

One book that has profoundly influenced me as an artist is The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. I first read it about five years ago, and it completely transformed my creative process. One of the practices that stood out to me was writing morning pages—a daily ritual of stream-of-consciousness writing that allowed me to connect with myself in a whole new way. It became a game changer, not just for my creativity but for my overall mindset. I often recommend morning pages to both creatives and non-creatives as a powerful outlet for self-reflection and mental clarity.

Another concept from the book that I’ve embraced is the artist’s date, where you dedicate time to explore or try something new purely for inspiration. This practice has been a wonderful way to bring fresh ideas and energy into my work. Whether it’s visiting a gallery, exploring a new hiking trail, or experimenting with a different medium, these dates remind me that creativity thrives when we’re open to new experiences.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve taken from The Artist’s Way is the importance of being unafraid to try new things—and even to fail. Creativity, after all, is a journey of exploration, and those moments of experimentation often lead to the most meaningful breakthroughs.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

At the heart of my creative journey is the goal of spreading happiness through creativity. I truly believe that creativity is a universal gift—something that everyone possesses, even if they don’t see it in themselves. Too often, people dismiss their creative potential, thinking they aren’t “artistic enough.” But I love helping others discover that creativity comes in so many forms and that anyone can tap into an art form, let go of daily stresses, and create something fun, meaningful, and even beautiful.

For me, color plays a vital role in this mission. Vibrant colors have an incredible ability to uplift our mood, spark joy, and bring energy into a space or a moment. Through my paintings and workshops, I aim to share the transformative power of color and show how it can be a source of happiness and connection.

Whether I’m guiding someone through a workshop or creating a piece of art for someone’s home, my hope is to inspire people to embrace creativity in their own lives, to feel the joy of making something with their hands, and to see the beauty in the process as much as the finished piece. Creativity isn’t just about the end result—it’s about finding moments of happiness, freedom, and connection along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lifeandwhim.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeandwhim/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LifeAndWhim/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-harrington-1b371a5/
• Other: [email protected]

Image Credits

No credits.