Heather Duris, a dedicated artist, has proudly called Lawrence, KS home for nearly two decades. Originally hailing from Independence, MO, Heather's artistic journey began during her time in the Army Reserves as a Multimedia Illustrator from 1996-1999. After earning her BA in Administration of Justice from UMKC in 1999, she spent four years on active duty as a Chemical Officer in the US Army before settling in Lawrence in 2003. There, she pursued her passion for art at KU, graduating in 2007 with a BFA in Painting and a Minor in Art History. Alongside her husband, Zdenko, Heather is a mother to two daughters and operates a home studio where she creates stunning jewelry, paintings, and prints.
Since 2014, Heather has been crafting personalized jewelry, which she sells through various channels including Etsy, the Phoenix Gallery in downtown Lawrence, and Cat and Nine Bells in Beloit, Wisconsin. Specializing in sterling silver pieces such as rings, pendants, and hand-stamped charms, her Etsy shops, Hip Mom Jewelry and Sporty Girl Jewelry, showcase her unique creations. While jewelry-making fulfills her desire to work with her hands, painting holds a special place in Heather's heart as her preferred medium. Her work often revolves around abstract Kansas-inspired landscapes that evoke a sense of nostalgia for the serene beauty of the prairie. Drawing inspiration from the natural colors of the landscape, Heather meticulously crafts compositions that incorporate line, contrast, and harmony, ultimately creating pieces that resonate with a deep connection to the land and its history.
Heather's abstract landscapes are a testament to her love for the ancient prairie and her dedication to promoting stewardship of the land. Through her art, she aims to evoke memories of the vast Kansas landscape, inviting viewers to appreciate its beauty and contemplate their relationship with the environment. As Aldo Leopold once said, "When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect." Heather's work embodies this sentiment, encouraging a sense of belonging and reverence for the land. Her prints are perfect for home and office decor, offering a touch of natural beauty and tranquility to any space. Take a piece of the Kansas prairie home with you today by purchasing one of Heather's exquisite prints.