DETAILED NATURE IN MULTIMEDIA ART

The Student Union is a common ground for many things at MHCC, and currently is home to a beautiful art showcase that exhibits some of Heather Haley’s finest pieces.

“The Nature Excerpt” is on display in the Fireplace Gallery, a vivid collection of nature and animal scenes.

While she lives in her home state, Idaho, Haley has had the opportunity to spread her art across different communities and states. She grew up with a strong passion for nature and animals, which translates into her art.

Her inspiration comes from her travels, whether her time in Iceland, in her home state and just being out in nature, even while picking berries, she said.

Haley’s art is distinct because of the keen attention to detail she puts into each of her pieces. She mainly uses three mediums: oil, watercolor and ink. Her favorite is oil, since it has such vivid colors that are true to nature, she said. When traveling she uses ink and watercolor, as it is easier to pack, however.

Her recommendation to other artists is to “practice all the time, even if you don’t feel like it. This is how you will become better and more skilled as an artist,” she said. “Also, understand the medium that you are working in. If you don’t understand how the medium behaves and works, you will not be happy with your work until you can master that aspect.”

Being an art teacher has helped Haley overcome artist’s blocks, and she is “eager to inspire others,” she said.

She also continues to learn: She said that being able to help others be happy with their work, and watch her students tackle artistic methods so different from hers, allows her to see things from a different perspective.

When she is not painting, Haley is tutoring in math and science, or cooking. She is known for making jams and apple butters, which are sold at holiday markets or craft bazaars.

Haley’s exhibit will remain in the Fireplace Gallery through Nov. 29.

The display is free and open to all visitors, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, until 5 p.m. on Fridays.