Heather Martindale: Texture, Light & Movement
Artist Heather Martindale paints lush folds of fabric that delicately dance, move, and wrap around the figure. After making the decision to pursue art full-time in 2021, Heather focuses on creating a body of work centered on texture, light, and movement.
How did your creative journey begin?
I have always been a creative soul, but I would say my practice really blossomed as I got a BFA in Painting. After that I took a long break from painting to work for a software company and build a family in Idaho. In 2021 I decided to restart my creative journey and become a full time professional artist and I am so excited for what's to come!
Where do you find inspiration for your work?
I find inspiration in texture, light, and movement. It usually manifests into imagery of fabric and subtle elements of the human figure amongst the lush folds in the material. The most exciting thing that inspires me to paint that image is how the light plays on the surface of the material, creating reflective light and exaggerated colors that wouldn't normally be present.
How has your work shifted and evolved over time?
When I first began exploring imagery of drapery and the figure, it was very static and statue-esc. It has evolved into more imagery full of movement and dramatic lighting and color choices.
What does a typical day in the studio look like for you, and how has your art practice grown or changed?
A full studio day for me is broken up into 20-30 minute increments all day. I will make a couple marks on the canvas and then tend to my two kids and dogs, then go back for another short time. At first it was very hard to get into the groove of starting and stopping. But I try to embrace it more and more, and I come back with fresh eyes each time.
Which experiences have impacted your work as an artist?
It is hard to identify one experience in particular, as a big part of my work is a response to how I observe the world around me. I pay attention to the smallest of details when observing my surroundings and personal interactions. Each of them informing the emotional representation in my next piece.
How has Instagram impacted your art career?
Instagram is like a whole new world for me as I did not grow up with it or have it as a resource during my undergraduate work. Now as a professional trying to get my work in front of as many people as possible, it is a great tool to broaden my reach and build connections with other creatives.
What are your future goals and aspirations?
Some of my goals and aspirations include using my creative background and training to give back to the community. I would love to develop a mentorship program for at risk teens that can use a creative outlet to help process through their own life's obstacles. I would also like to some day publish an artist resource book.
Website: hmartindale.com
Instagram: @hmartindale_art