Heather Neilson
Abstract Artist

Heather is an abstract artist whose work is a reflection of the interplay between the natural world, the passage of time and identity. By drawing upon hues found in tangible and imagined landscapes, she seeks to evoke a sense of equilibrium and harmony while exploring the paradox of tension, chaos, and order. Guided by an experiential approach, Heather’s work is a translation and abstraction of the emotions and sensations she encounters.

Heather aspires to express a tangible connection between human experience, a sense of belonging, and the natural world. Through her art, she extends an invitation to viewers to explore their own connection to the earth and sky—a connection that evokes memories, ancestral history, and a sense of place. She hopes to inspire a heightened awareness of our intertwined existence, fostering a deeper appreciation for the world around us.

Heather resides and creates in the Northwestern hills of Connecticut, where nature continuously fuels her artistic endeavors.

Read more about Heather’s art practice in this Northwest Connecticut Arts Council article

Beyond her personal practice, Heather finds great joy in helping others discover and express their own creative voice. Through art classes and workshops, offered both in person and online, she provides individuals with the tools, guidance, and encouragement essential to uncover their inner artist. Within a warm and inviting creative space, participants can embark on a journey of  self-expression, skill development, personal growth and transformation. These experiences not only offer intrinsic rewards but also create opportunities for meaningful connections with like-minded individuals.

Heather invites you to explore the current opportunities available to join her on this artistic journey, where we can create, learn, and grow together.

Biography 
Heather has pursued the study of art for more than 30 years. She attended classes at the Art Students League of New York and studied with several master artists. Heather was a digital marketer before becoming a full time artist. She received her B.A. in Communications from Rutgers University. She is a certified GOLDEN Arts Educator and Silver Brush Educator. Heather teaches art classes online, in her studio and throughout the region.

Gallery Representation
Alofft Gallery, Litchfield, CT'

Associations
Connecticut Women Artists

Exhibitions

October, 2024 - Connecticut Women Artists, National Juried Show - Slater Museum, Norwich, CT
April, 2024 - Motion In Limine - Whiting Mills, Winsted, CT
January, 2024 - Renewal - Kehler Liddell Gallery, New Haven, CT
September, 2023 - Faculty Show - West Hartford Art League, West Hartford, CT
September 3-29, 2022 - SOLO Show - The Norfolk Library - Norfolk, CT Take a Virtual Tour
May 2022 - 2nd Home Lounge Featured Artist - Winsted, CT
April-May 2022 - Group Show “Down to Earth” - Canton Gallery on the Green - Canton, CT
March 2022 - Group show - Kent Art Association - Kent, CT
May 2021 – Solo show – John Noelke Gallery – Torrington, CT
September 2020 – National Fine Art Show – Lincoln Gallery, Loveland, CO
February 2020 – Juried show – Small Works, Five Points Annex Gallery
December 2019 – Juried show – Small Works, West Hartford Art League, West Hartford, Connecticut
December 2018 – Solo show The Smithy Loft Gallery, New Preston, Connecticut
May 2018 – CT+6 Juried Group Exhibit West Hartford Art League, West Hartford, Connecticut November 2016 Solo show – “Explorations – Works on Paper”, Northwestern Connecticut Community College, Winsted, Connecticut
October 2016 – Solo show – The Underground Gallery, Collinsville, Connecticut November 2015 – Solo show – The Underground Gallery, Collinsville, Connecticut

Residencies

Steve Aimone – Online – October, 2021
Judith Kruger Master Residency – MASS MOCA, North Adams, Massachusetts – October, 2018
Aimone Art Services Residency – Atlantic Center of the Arts, New Smyrna, Florida – February, 2018

Heather Neilson studio
Heather Neilson painting