The talented sculptor and illustrator, Heather Maione, has recently become a resident of Chappaqua. Her journey from college student to professional artist displaying her work in prestigious public spaces across the country shows her deep and persistent passion for art.
Early Interests & Career Beginnings
From a young age, Maione had a strong interest in art. She always aspired to create her own work and have the ability to express her ideas in unique ways. During her college career, she spent a semester abroad in Siena, Italy, where she sculpted a bust of her professor. That bust turned out extremely well and established her love for sculpting. Despite this turning point, Heather didn’t pursue art for many decades.
After college, she began to work in the advertising industry and eventually started creating her own line of greeting cards called “Fitness Fun.” Her path shifted again when she became pregnant with her first child. She then began to illustrate children’s books and found success at several publishing companies. Despite her success, Maione longed to return to the sculpting medium.
Returning to Sculpture
Maione’s first piece that brought her back to sculpture was a bust of her mother. Not only did this rekindle her passion, but it led her to a great opportunity when a friend, the head of the Democratic Party in Long Island, asked her to sculpt Bill Clinton. While Maione never met the former president, his sculpture sits in the presidential library in Arkansas.
After this experience, Heather sculpted the Nobel Prize winner Dr. James Watson who discovered DNA. This piece was presented at his 90th birthday party on Long Island, another major milestone in her career.
Building a Portfolio & Expanding Horizons
Heather’s talent continued to open many doors for her. When she saw an article about Agnes Gund, president of the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) and a noted philanthropist, in the New York Times, Heather reached out to create a sculpture of her and was granted permission.
Heather’s impressionistic style draws her to create artwork that involves both human and animal forms. She aims to capture the essence and spirit of her subjects, rather than just their links to a photograph.
The Artistic Process
Heather’s sculpting process is very meticulous and takes an average of three months to complete. She tries to meet her subject in person so she can take numerous photographs and measurements. If that isn’t possible, she primarily relies on photos and videos, making the process more challenging. After gathering photos, she begins by creating a wire structure that is anchored to a wood block and then begins to add clay until the piece begins to take shape.
Once the clay model is approved by the client, Maione continues to the casting stage using the lost wax process. She prefers to use bronze instead of bonded bronze or plaster as this material can last forever.
Notable Works & Achievements
Heather’s favorite piece was the bust of Dr. James Watson, which she feels captures his essence very well. Her most recent project was a bust of philanthropist and prominent businessman from Long Island, Robert Bahnik. His sculpture will be displayed at the Boys and Girls Club in Oyster Bay.
Heather’s main goal in her artwork is to embody the spirit and personality of her subjects. Her dedication to capturing the true essence of her subjects drives her artistic journey and defines her work. As she settles into her new home in Chappaqua, Heather Maione’s contributions to the world of art will undoubtedly enrich her community.
