Meet Heather Harrington | Artist and Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Heather Harrington and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Heather, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
“Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” – Pablo Picasso

This quote beautifully captures the transformative power of creativity. For me, art is not just a form of expression but a way to connect with others, rejuvenate the spirit, and find joy in the simple, everyday moments. At Life and Whim, I strive to share this sense of happiness and appreciation for art with others through my creative workshops, community events, and artwork.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is a reflection of how I experience and interpret the world around me. I work with mixed media and acrylic paint, creating pieces that are both abstract and expressive. My vibrant palette captures the joy I find in the small details of life and nature. Living in Traverse City provides endless inspiration—whether it’s the awe-inspiring colors of Lake Michigan, the wildflowers, or the stunning landscapes of northern Michigan, each element fuels my creativity.

One of the aspects I’m most proud of is the culture of creativity I’ve been able to cultivate through my art workshops and community initiatives. I love seeing the happiness that comes from people learning how to paint and creating something beautiful. A standout project is the Traverse City Fairy Trails at the Botanic Gardens of Historic Barns Park, which I started over seven years ago. The Fairy Trails is a magical, all-natural space where children and families can explore enchanting fairy houses and build one of their own.

Additionally, I take great pride in working with families and individuals to create special pieces for their homes or spaces. Whether it’s capturing a beloved pet, a favorite family beach, or filling a blank space with the perfect painting, I love helping people envision and create artwork that holds personal meaning. It’s incredibly fulfilling to bring a client’s vision to life and create a piece that resonates with their unique story and space.

Getting to where I am today has been a journey filled with both joy and challenges, but it has been deeply rewarding. Overcoming these obstacles has taught me resilience, the importance of community support, and the value of staying true to myself and my creativity. For me, Life and Whim is more than just an art brand; it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the joy of experiencing life’s simple wonders.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting the Traverse City area, I’d make sure they experience all the beauty and charm that this region has to offer. We’d start with a meal at Farm Club, a lovely restaurant and farm where you can enjoy fresh, seasonal food with a stunning view of the countryside. One day would be dedicated to exploring the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes and visiting Glen Haven and Good Harbor beaches. A bonfire at Good Harbor while watching the sunset is an absolute must—it’s a magical experience! And if the skies are clear, we’d stay to marvel at the dark night skies and brilliant stars. If they’re lucky, they might even catch the northern lights dancing across the horizon.

We’d also hop on our bikes and ride the TART Trail to Suttons Bay, stopping at Shady Lane Vineyard for a glass of wine. I’d also love to take them to visit the Botanic Gardens at Historic Barns Park, where they could see the beautiful gardens and explore the magical Fairy Trails. For a little shopping and good eats, we’d stroll down Front Street in downtown Traverse City to hit up some of my favorite shops and restaurants, like Flying Noodle or Red Ginger.

Finally, we’d take a hike at Treat Farm in Leelanau County for breathtaking views of the sand dunes and Lake Michigan—one of the best spots to soak in the beauty of northern Michigan. Every moment in Traverse City feels like a little adventure, and I love showing friends the beauty of this region and the unique places that make this area so special.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
When I reflect on my journey, there are several people who have played pivotal roles in encouraging and supporting me. First and foremost, my dad, who was an entrepreneur, instilled in me the belief that I could create my own path. From a young age, he encouraged my creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, whether it was selling handmade goods on the sidewalk or pursuing bigger dreams.

The next person I owe immense gratitude to is my husband, Jay. Over 20 years ago, he was the one who first nudged me to start my own design and marketing business. At the time, I found the idea of running a business intimidating, but Jay believed in me when I didn’t yet believe in myself. His continued support also gave me the confidence to branch out into my art business, which has since become such an important part of who I am.

Most recently, the support of a group of local artists has been invaluable. They’ve become close friends and a wonderful sounding board, offering feedback, encouragement, and camaraderie. Being surrounded by people who understand the ups and downs of creative work has meant so much to me and helped me grow both personally and professionally. I’m incredibly grateful for their influence on my journey.

Website: https://www.lifeandwhim.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeandwhim/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-harrington-1b371a5/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LifeAndWhim/