Imagine affecting the lives of many through the healing practise of art.  Many of us hear or see atrocities happening and feel that we may not be able to make an impact, but this is not the case with this week's guest who has dedicated the last 11 years of her life to a cause much bigger than herself in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Heather has been an artist for nearly 3 decades, having started her career in 1995 in Canada.  

 In 2005, she entered the gallery circuit and began to show work in galleries and exhibits throughout North America.   A fierce vexation in gender inequality took Haynes to one of the world’s most despairing places, The Democratic Republic of Congo, in 2011.  There, she witnessed the impact of unspeakable cruelty and systemic injustices at every turn.    A chance meeting with a Congolese gentleman who was caring for orphan children altered the trajectory of Haynes’ artwork, and life.  It was those children who became the inspiration for her work for the next 11 years. Through a series of touring exhibitions, her work has raised awareness and funds in the fight to eradicate poverty through education and healthcare, in communities in and around Goma, DRC.
In 2018, as a natural extension of her fundraising efforts and humanitarian themed artwork, Haynes formed a non-profit organization to add legitimacy to her endeavour. The Art of Courage is a platform for storytelling through art to create awareness, educate, advocate, and raise funds to change lives.  In 2020, Haynes was honoured to have her Wall of Courage anchor the Human Element of Emergency on Planet Earth, a poignant exhibition at the UTA Artist Space in Los Angeles, curated by The United Talent Agency’s Director of Fine Art, Arthur Lewis. 

In this episode we hear about Heather's journey, as well as how art can heal.

Visit www.heatherhaynes.com to purchase her work, watch her documentary 
"The Common Thread", and learn more about The Art of Courage.

You can also find Heather on instagram @heather_haynes_artist

I hope you found inspiration in this episode to encourage you on your healing journey.. If you're a healer, or have an inspiring story to share, please connect with us through instagram @thisishowwehealpodcast or @healwithstephhamilton.

Thank you for listening, following, and sharing.

I love you, and have a glorious day!

Steph x