Meet Heather Livingston of Mesa

Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Livingston.

Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
Painting has been a passion of mine since I was a child. As an adult, I have discovered painting as a way I can express my feelings with colors and techniques I never imagined could be so therapeutic! I’ve been painting full-time since 2017 and have covered every wall in my home. Acrylic is my medium; abstract is my style. My paintings are based on bright, bold colors in various styles and textures. I enjoy experimenting with new techniques and creating my versions. For me, painting helps engage my thoughts and moods without verbal articulation. It’s an alternative mode of receptive and expressive communication. The visual and symbolic expression gives me a voice to communicate my experiences, empowers me to be confident, and helps improve my self-esteem. 2018, I started teaching acrylic paint pouring classes and hosting Paint & Sip Parties at my home studio and venues. I love to teach and enjoy watching others be creative. It’s gratifying watching others learn from me and create beautiful paintings! I have also done various commission paintings for individuals seeking art for a specific space or project. The beauty of abstract art brings out the creativity in everyone and inspires a person to look beyond lines, shapes, and symmetry!

It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I mastered various paint-pouring techniques over the years with much trial and error. As my ideas came to me, I would paint until I filled every wall in my house with my paintings. I started seeking commission work to continue to paint and didn’t need to hang them on my walls. The commission jobs are few and far between, and my desire to continue painting continues. I started storing paintings in closets and drawers. It’s been discouraging trying to sell my paintings. At times, it is depressing. Then, I decided to start teaching my techniques to others and host paint-n-sip parties. I transformed my formal dining room into an art studio. I can accommodate 10 painters at my table. I have enjoyed teaching very much. I usually have 1-4 classes scheduled a week. The cost of supplies has increased so much that I had to increase the prices a couple of years ago, but it still barely covers those expenses. I still try to sell my paintings, but that has been a big challenge.

Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an abstract artist using acrylic paints on canvas, metal, and glass. I also teach paint-pouring classes and host paint-and-sip parties. I specialize in paint-pouring techniques. I am known for my bright and colorful paintings, and students say they enjoy my classes and how I allow them to do their own and be creative. I am proud of my accomplishments along the way. One thing that sets me apart from others is my teaching style and flexibility to offer classes seven days a week and schedule them when convenient for myself and my students.

What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
Always discuss and be clear about how much I would charge for a commission painting. I have kicked myself a few times and still have a tough time putting a price on my time. It’s easy to figure out the cost of supplies, but it’s very hard to put a price on my time.

Pricing:

• In studio classes $32
• Parties at other venues $42
• Paintings typically sell at $.75-$1.00 per sq inch

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sites.google.com/view/paint-pouring-classes/home
• Instagram: @livingston.abstract.creations
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/by.HeatherLivingston/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@livingston.abstract.creations
• Other: https://sites.google.com/buyabstract.me/abstract-paintings-livingston/home