We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Stuart Heir a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Stuart, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

I started as a Photographer’s Assistant at 18 years old In NYC after trying college for a year. For the next five years I worked in various well known studios and at 23 started my own successful Advertising Photography studio in NYC. I continued this for the next 32 years and was itching for a more creative outlet as the world of Photography turned digital.

I always wanted to paint and draw and made the leap 12 years ago. I began to teach myself to draw and paint in sumi ink, watercolors and acrylics. Taking my knowledge of color and design it began to take shape and I have stayed with it out of the love of the process.

About 3 years ago I discovered Procreate and have incorporated into my practice. After trial and much error I’ve developed a look that incorporates my yoga practice and spirituality.

Stuart, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

As I previously mentioned, my background is in Photography as a studio owner in NYC working in Advertising still-life with a international clientele.

I sell original artwork, prints and home goods products.

My work evokes a spiritual quality that is simple and graphic.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

The journey of an artist is one of time and commitment. One must struggle with the basics and frustrations of trial and error and believe that you have something unique to say. This can mainly be done by what i call the “alone time” , that time that is essential everyday to do the work, refine it ,be critical and have a message. There are days when the art comes easy and fast and long days where it’s just not working and ends up in the trash. These days are the test of your love and commitment.

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

As an Artist, the work brings pleasure and at times makes you feel like there is some divine intervention moving your hand. Eventually your work achieves a certain continuity and has a life of it’s own. This is only achieved by constant practice.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.stuartheir.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stuartheir/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stuart.heir
• Other: https://www.peddlersandrogues.com/ https://www.minted.com/store/stuartheir https://society6.com/stuartheir

Image Credits
all images @Stuart Heir