Why Heather's Such a Trooper

The morning of August 3^rd, our long-time art instructor Heather Walano texted the staff asking if anyone could cover her class that afternoon. She had just adopted a new puppy, who I can testify is absolutely adorable, but he isn't quite aware of his own strength yet, so he accidentally sent Heather to the hospital that morning in need of stitches in her right hand.

None of our other artists were available to cover her, so I told Heather I'd go in for her if no one else could do it. That's when she really impressed me, texting back: "I can do lefty if it's not a huge group." Folks, I don't know if you've ever tried to paint with your non-dominant hand, but it's certainly not an easy feat for most! Against all odds, she managed to guide the class of mostly young boys in painting the Fornite llama that young Dante requested for his birthday party. All of the llamas came out great, including Heather's lefty llama. That's why Heather's such a trooper!

Learn a little more about Heather Walano in her own words:

I was fortunate to grow up in the Hudson Valley among family and friends who were not only extraordinary artists, but happily let me tag along. I like to think my landscapes have a little something from each of them reflected in the shadows, colors and compositions. After college in Boston and summers lifeguarding at Cape Cod, I moved to New Jersey and had a long career in Interior Design, of course painting on the side as much as possible. Many of my Seascapes have a lifeguards perspective of standing knee-deep, looking at the details of the waves and currents and the Cityscapes show my love of architecture and draftsmanship. With my four sons out of college and the support of my husband, I'm now lucky to be painting and presenting every day of the year.

My work is on display at Simply Art and Framing in Cranford NJ, which also carries my Children's Book, "Let's Go Cranford" with watercolor illustrations.

Upcoming shows include:

The Canterbury Art Show a Tapestry of the Arts Aug 30-Sept 2

Taste & See Art Auction to benefit Raphael's Life House Oct 19

Harvey Cedars Art Festival July 21^st

Take a look at some of Heather's paintings below. You can also follow Heather on Instagram @hwalano