MY HEART FOR ART: HAYLEY MITCHELL

One of the first 'people' to greet you when entering our beach home is this pretty lady. Doesn't she just take your breath away? I first learned of the talented Hayley Mitchell when our interior designer, Paloma Contreras, purchased one of Hayley's ladies at a design show and shared it on Instagram. It was love at first sight. I knew one of her 'sisters' would be perfect for our coastal home's entry. As luck would have it, Hayley soon announced an upcoming sale of new work, and she was nice enough to preview the pieces. My finger was ready to pull the trigger the moment the sale went live, and she became ours. And while I love all of Hayley's work, it's no secret that I have a slight obsession with her faces.

Details:
Design by Paloma Contreras, Art by Hayley Mitchell,
Chest from Wisteria (similar here), Table Lamp from Circa, Sconce from Circa,
Books: In the Spirit of the Hamptons, Allegra Hicks Eye for Design, Miles Redd The Big Book of Chic 

When I told Hayley I was starting this blog and asked if she'd allow me to interview her, she was extremely grateful and gracious, despite her busy family and schedule and the fact that she had just been featured in the One King's Lane catalog and had a collection of her prints added to their site. Keep reading below to learn a little more about Hayley's life and talent and to see more of her beautiful work. Thank you, Hayley, for being the first artist featured in "My Heart for Art."

Jennifer: When did you first discover your talent? 
Hayley: My grandmother actually noticed at age two or three that I was advanced in my artistic ability. She is also an artist, so she really nurtured my gift. Every visit with her was filled with trips to museums, galleries, and painting. She gave me free rein in her studio, allowing me to destroy $200 dollar brushes, make messes, and explore. As I grew, she constantly challenged me to move outside of my comfort zone.

Jennifer: Can you tell us about your art education and how you’ve developed this incredible talent? 
Hayley: As mentioned, my grandmother played a role in my education. At age 9, she and my grandfather planned a trip to Paris, France. I believe that was an especially formative experience. I always knew I wanted to be an artist. I studied graphic design at Abilene Christian University. I took a break to act as a chaperone for my sister as she modeled in Europe. We lived in Paris by the Centre Pompidou, which was amazing. I got to follow my sister on castings/modeling jobs and sit on set or outside on a street in Paris and sketch. I'm forever thankful I got to experience Paris at 20 without an iPhone. 

Jennifer: Who/what is your inspiration?
Hayley: Everything!!! Nature, fashion, architecture, interior design, travel, historical figures, people (especially strong women), and so much more. Inspiration comes from nearly every facet of life. 

Jennifer: Who are your favorites artists? 
Hayley: Helen Frankenthaler, Joan Mitchell, Picasso, Matisse, Olga Rozanova, Pollock, Lee Krasner, Willem de Kooning, Otto Neumann, Morris Louis, and so many more. I could go on forever. I love art history. Current artists I love are Lindsey Porter, Brian Coleman, Susie Bettenhausen, and Michael Kirkman. 

Jennifer: What’s your secret to balancing a career and four kids? 
Hayley: My kids come first, and I always want to be available to them. The creative process and my work are important to me, but I don't have to worry about a painting resenting me in 10 years. It is also important for them to see me work. I've learned when to say no and ask for help. Sometimes that has meant saying no to "big" opportunities because the timing just is not right for my family. Letting go of mom guilt and perfectionism has been essential. I'm not going to be room mom, but I will donate a painting for PTA's silent auction. Hello Fresh, Blue Apron, and grocery delivery services, my nanny, and countless other aids are also key. These tools allow me to be purposeful and productive with my time. There is not a perfect formula for making career life and motherhood harmoniously coexist....it is all trial and error. When things feel off balance, I readjust to meet the need (whether that be kids or career). Sometimes I am proud of completing a painting and other times I'm equally as proud of successfully running errands with four kids. 

Jennifer: What is your favorite subject to paint? Your favorite medium?
Hayley: The subjects that I find most interesting are faces, figures, and florals. Abstract works on occasion as they are typically inspired by strong emotions. I most frequently use oil pastels, watercolors, oil and acrylic paints. 

 
Jennifer: Any advice for choosing/collecting and styling art in the home? 
Hayley: BUY WHAT YOU LOVE!  Instagram is an amazing way to discover emerging artists. I love collecting art and supporting fellow artists. Art is always being moved around in my house... I'm constantly curating and editing. Collected gallery walls are always a favorite. There are often stacks of framed artwork leaning against walls, waiting to be hung up. 

Hayley's Stairway Gallery featuring art created by her children

Jennifer: Outside of art and your kids, what is/are your passion(s)?
Hayley: I am an avid reader (or audiobook listener). I love to be outside, travel, and watch movies! Doing for others and giving back to my community and organizations that help provide aid to those in need. I'm also very passionate about supporting fellow women creatives. 

Jennifer: What has been your greatest honor/achievement as an artist?
Hayley: This might sound cliché, but honestly I feel so honored each time someone purchases a painting. Hearing how they connect to a piece or how much joy it brings them really means the world to me. 

Jennifer: Are you exploring any new directions soon? Or will you continue to give us more of what we love? Or both?
Hayley: I'm always exploring new directions, but I will always stay close to the same subject matter. 

Jennifer: Are you taking commissions? 
Hayley: Yes! There is a waitlist, but I'm finally getting back up to speed!

If you'd like to contact Hayley about her work, click here. To view more of Hayley's available work, visit her here, at her Etsy shop, or at One King's Lane.