We recently connected with Heather Hernon and have shared our conversation below.
Heather , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
After almost flunking my freshman year in college that was focused on courses related to the physical therapy field, I had one art class that I absolutely loved. When I transferred to PSU in NH, I knew I wanted to be in a creative field. I applied for MFA in Graphic Design. From there I graduated and found a job in Burlington VT at JDK working on accounts such at Burton Snowboards, New Era, Seventh Generation etc. I worked there for 2 years but always wanted to live in NYC and took the leap. I was originally hired to do croquis (fashion illustrations) for Tommy Hilfiger’s sister and eventually was hired by her to work in fashion. I continued for 22 years at brands such as Gap/Old Navy, Uniqlo, Rachel Comey, and Osh Kosh B’gosh…While working in the creative field professionally, I always was drawing/painting on the side.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I answered some of this in previous question but I would say I am most proud that I have adapted to different creative fields from graphic design, then fashion and now currently I am working as an art teacher at Phillips Exeter Academy while working on freelance remote design work. I love that I can balance the creative fields in order to live and also hold a studio space for my own art practice.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
I guess my main thing I have realized more recently is what my own practice of drawing and painting has helped in keeping me sane. I love to draw and when I am stressed or overwhelmed, it’s the one thing that keeps me calm and regulates me.
Have you ever had to pivot?
I would say the pandemic changed up everything for me. I was living and working full time in NYC but then decided to move temporarily to NH during the pandemic. I have two children and when the pandemic kept going, we decided to enroll them in school in NH as it was easier. I thought I would move back to NYC but I have been making some pivots such as teaching art and I really enjoy it! I also got a shared studio space where as before I was doing my personal work actually just drawing in bed which is my insta handle!
Contact Info:
- Website: heatherhernon.com
- Instagram: drawinginbed