How much can you learn about an artist from their work? In Celeste Heery's case, you can learn a great deal.

Heery was born in Huntsville, AL, and was raised in Virginia. Her love of art began in her freshman year at college, moved by Salvador Dali's “Sleep”. The surreal and stunning depiction of the subject made a strong impact on her. She began going to art museums and galleries, and took classes in art appreciation and history as part of her curriculum.

The artist studied Philosophy at George Mason University in Virginia. This course of study helped her discover and express the deep intrigues of the human soul. Her philosophy-oriented background complements the spontaneity, depth, and the intuitiveness integral to Heery's style.

Heery painted for the first time many years after college, and began with a confluence of wax and paint. It was a fun adventure for her, and she often painted in a frenzy after work. She used the same brush for multitudes of colors, getting a blended look that added depth to the piece and was a nice compliment to the texture of the wax.

Heery took a hiatus for several years after her initial foray into art. She has battled with depression for quite some time, and the fight continues. “Art is like therapy for me. I cannot paint when I am depressed. In order to create, I have to tap into the spirit and joy of life. That is why every painting I have created reflects happiness and gratitude.” Heery's abstract pieces are full of color and movement, conveying a sense of exuberance. She has a compulsion to create.

Heery uses a combination of tools and splashes as she quickly selects colors and attacks the canvas. “I go with the flow. The colors speak to me. I usually figure out which color to use next when I walk up to the table.” She insists that she rarely has preconceived ideas about the art. “I focus on the process, on letting go. Then, when I have “finished”, I make changes until I am pleased with the final product.”

Fans and collectors of Heery's work describe her art as bursting alive with color. She often hears that each piece offers new things to discover with every viewing.

Heery continues to explore ways to increase her knowledge and expand her horizons. She takes workshops and has taken classes in abstract painting and drawing.

Art will continue to be her saving grace.