Bio

Heather Sproat was raised in Medicine Hat, Alberta where she obtained her diploma in Graphic Design from Medicine Hat College, followed by a BFA from the University of Lethbridge.

In 2004, she moved to Moncton, where her and her partner operated a successful photography studio for many years. In 2010, Heather developed her love of ceramics while taking Production Pottery courses at NBCCD as well as continuous glaze chemistry courses with Matt Kats. Her work is deeply informed by her graphic design and photography background leading to ongoing experimentation with screen printing and decal development for ceramics.

Residency Project

The proposal is a multi-layer reduction block print. Students would map out each layer of their design and then carve it into insulation foam using pencils so no sharp tools would be needed. After the first colour is printed they then continue carving the block and printing the next layer until the finished image is revealed. This is a fantastic project for getting students to break down images into single colour components that help them with composition as well as colour theory.

Step 1 - Image development

Step 2 - Breaking up the image by colour and creating a colour map

Step 3 - Carving and/or printing the first colour

Step 4 - Carving and printing the second colour

Step 5 - Carving and printing final colour and revealing the completed image


Teaching Experience

2005-2007   I taught Photoshop digital photo retouching community courses through NBCC

2010-2019   I taught various hand building ceramics courses to adults and children through Artisan Village and my home studio.

2022-Current   I teach Art classes at Riverbend Community School grades 3-7