Heather Haynes as a child, a visual disorder impaired her reading, and her schoolwork suffered. Surprisingly, Haynes excelled in art class, and the subject became her heartfelt focus. Eventually she enrolled in the visual arts program at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. She began to display her work in a local market. From there, her paintings became increasingly popular and can now be found in many private and corporate collections, as well as select galleries across Canada, Britain and the United States.
Haynes' paintings are process driven, and her imagery depends heavily on her technique. She uses acrylics and various glazes, often integrating stenciled forms and subtle text. She builds up the paintings in layers that refer to her themes of dualities - juxtaposing inside and out.
Her use of lace adds an interior element, reminiscent of old curtains and wallpaper. The subtle writing adds another interior dimension. The entire composition is finished with a thick, clear glaze sealing all the elements together.
Heather Haynes describes herself as a contemporary folk impressionist. Her unique style draws inspiration from nature and everyday objects. The paintings have a loose, stylized feel, infused with the intriguing sense of a timeless peace. In life, as in her art, Haynes is at heart a happy fatalist. "What happens is meant to happen," she says. "Painting is about taking chances and trusting your instincts; you shouldn't think too much."
