Artist's Statement

I believe abstract art comes from the spirit. I begin a new painting with brush strokes of color that call to me. Then I follow the direction that the painting dictates. I never approach the canvas with preconceived ideas. My mind goes silent and I let the painting take over. The most important thing for me is to focus on the process and not the result. Most of all, I try to just let go. My best work comes from a place of quiet and inner peace.

I paint fast and spontaneously. It helps me cover more ground and allow the spirit to flow through me. The painting takes on a life of its own. It gives me confidence, to trust where I am going and not worry about the destination. When I am painting, the cares of the world are left behind. I am free to let my thoughts be quiet and allow my focus to be on each next step as it arrives. When I focus on the enjoyment of painting,and not on the approval of others, I produce better work. If I define success by how many paintings I sell, I will never be satisfied.

I have works in private collections in Texas, Florida, Michigan, Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. My work has been featured at Silent Poetry in Burnsville, NC, The Appalachian Artisan Society Gallery in Old Fort, NC, Mountain Java in Candler and Asheville, NC, Adorn Salon & Boutique inAsheville, NC, The Garage in Asheville, NC, Green Hands Healing Center, Asheville, NC, Razcal's Restaurant in Asheville, and Neo Burrito on Patton Avenue in Asheville, NC.

I have been named Global Art Collectors Artist of the Week as well as nominated for Facebook's World Art Critics Artist of the Month.

You can read an article about my work in the August 2008 issue of Out in Asheville.

Learn more about Heery's work at www.celestejheery.com.

4/16-4/27 | BA Show · Drawing  · 2nd Floor Gallery, Owen Hall | Theresa Burden Reception: April 16, 6:00 p.m.

4/16-4/27 | BA Show · Painting · 2nd Floor Gallery, Owen Hall | Amy Griffith Reception: April 16, 6:00 p.m.