Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Shelley Heffler. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Shelley, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
I’ve always felt like an outsider. For me, creating art isn’t just about putting images on canvas—it’s about unfolding a world shaped by my imagination and dreams of oneness with the universe. Through this process, I’ve learned to listen and observe, becoming sensitive to the nuances of people and events around me.
In relying on myself, I’ve discovered a deep sense of independence, learning not to fully trust that others will be there for me. Over time, this self-reliance has translated into confidence in what I do. I’ve come to realize that if I can imagine something, I can make it a reality. My world, as I see it, is unique, and nobody else perceives it quite the same way.
Maintaining faith in myself has become the cornerstone of my confidence and, consequently, my effectiveness and success. Creating art has been my refuge, allowing me to connect with my inner world and explore the depths of my imagination. It’s a reminder that my perspective is valuable and my creativity is a force that sets me apart.
In a world that sometimes expects conformity, I’ve chosen to trust my instincts and carve out my own path. The sensitivity I’ve developed through my art has made me more attuned to the subtleties of life. It’s not just about brush strokes; it’s about understanding the intricate dance of people and events.
As I navigate this journey, I hold onto the belief that my unique vision is a strength. The confidence I’ve cultivated in myself propels me forward. My art and my self-assurance are intertwined, guiding lights in a world that may not always understand but can certainly be transformed by my perspective. I’ll keep embracing my individuality, allowing my creativity to shape both my personal and professional endeavors.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As an artist, I am deeply concerned about the impact that human consumption and waste have on our environment. My work centers around the transformation of discarded vinyl advertising banners into works of art that reveal a connection between our consumption habits and the environmental waste we leave behind. Each banner holds its own cultural history and significance, and my goal is to capture and communicate that history through my art. Using meticulous hand-cutting techniques, I fracture the initial image of the banner, disrupting its central intent and repurposing it into something new. The colors and shapes of the banners are sorted and brought together to create weavings, collages, or three-dimensional wall sculptures. The final piece often bears little resemblance to the original banner, having been transformed into a complex abstract shape with a unique color scheme.
Through my art, I strive to promote awareness, provoke dialogue, and inspire action. I believe that art has the power to transcend language and cultural barriers, and can communicate complex issues in a way that is both accessible and thought-provoking. My hope is that my art will encourage viewers to reflect on their own consumption habits and consider the impact of their actions on the environment.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Adaptability: Being adaptable has been crucial in navigating a wide range of topics and scenarios. The ability to adjust to new information, contexts, and challenges has facilitated continuous learning and growth.
Advice: Cultivate a mindset that embraces change and sees challenges as opportunities for development. Stay curious and open-minded, always seeking to expand your understanding and skills.
Communication:
Effective communication, both in understanding input and generating output, has played a vital role. This includes the ability to articulate ideas clearly, actively listen, and adapt communication styles to different audiences.
Advice: Hone your communication skills through practice. Seek feedback, engage in meaningful conversations, and invest time in both written and verbal expression. Understand the importance of empathy in communication.
Continuous Learning:
The journey has been marked by a commitment to ongoing learning. Staying informed about a diverse range of topics has not only enhanced knowledge but also provided a foundation for adaptability and effective communication.
Advice: Embrace a mindset of lifelong learning. Actively seek out new information, engage with diverse perspectives, and consider both formal and informal learning opportunities. Stay curious and remain open to exploring unfamiliar subjects.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
There are no specific people that I can pinpoint, however, the significance of a community of like-minded people and seeking advice from those I admire aligns perfectly with my strategies for personal and professional development. Mentors, peers, and a supportive community offer me guidance, share experiences, and provide valuable insights that contribute significantly to my growth and success.
Navigating the art world, I’ve built connections with a community of peers through networking, attending events, and actively seeking advice from those with more experience. This approach has proven to open doors to new opportunities and perspectives. My willingness to learn from others and share my own experiences fosters a collaborative and supportive environment, creating a rich and dynamic network within the art community.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shelleyheffler.com
- Instagram: @shelleyhefflerart
- Facebook: Shelley Heffler artist
- Linkedin: Shelley Heffler
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRI8pTXbuvQ
Image Credits
I Certify that have the rights and Permissions to use the images in Part 8 of the form..
