Collection of used artist paintbrushes in jars on an artist's workspace.
A woman with blonde hair smiling while sitting in a red chair, holding a paintbrush, with colorful abstract paintings in the background.
A ceramic cup filled with various paintbrushes of different sizes and shapes, some with dried paint on the handles and bristles, set against a turquoise textured background.
Collection of paintbrushes with colorful bristles lined up on a rustic wooden surface.
Close-up of two paintbrushes with colorful acrylic paint on a palette and surface.
A painter's palette covered in colorful oil paints with several paintbrushes resting on it.
A collection of paintbrushes in containers on a work table.
A messy artist's palette with various oil paints and used paintbrushes
A collection of used artist paintbrushes with colorful bristles and gold ferrules, set against a vibrant, blurred background with bokeh and sparkles.
A messy artist's palette with various paints and several paintbrushes lying on top.
A woman with glasses and blonde hair, wearing a dark top, surrounded by various paintbrushes in an art studio.

Abstract Art Coaching & Mentoring

Personalized support to grow your art practice

Whether you're just starting out or ready to deepen your practice, private mentoring provides focused, customized support to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Why Work Privately?

Because your journey is unique. Private sessions allow us to focus on exactly what you need—whether it’s building technique, developing a stronger body of work, or putting your art into the world.

How Artists Work with Me

  • Art Practice Development
    Support and guidance to start or continue to build a body of work.

  • Artwork Review
    Thoughtful, constructive feedback with specific suggestions for strengthening your work or addressing creative challenges.

  • Technique Demos & Guidance
    Step-by-step support for learning new processes or refining existing ones.

  • Tool & Material Recommendations
    Advice on paint, brushes, mark-making tools, substrates, and more.

  • Professional Development Guidance
    Support with show submissions, pricing, portfolio building, and getting your work seen and sold.

Session Details

Rate: $100/hour

  • In-person sessions

    • my studio at Whiting Mills, Winsted, CT

    • your location - if more than 30 mins travel time, an additional fee applies depending on distance

  • Live via Zoom

Let’s Connect

Send me an email to tell me where you are stuck or needing help and we can schedule can schedule a 10–15 minute phone consultation (free) to talk about your goals and how we might work together.


“You won’t find many teachers who are as generous with their knowledge, and as supportive of any skill level in art as Heather Neilson. Her engagement with and dedication to her students will stay with you with long after you walk out of either her workshops or her longer classes .” - Tricia

“Heather is an amazing instructor. She makes you feel calm and positive about your efforts. She is very helpful and full of ideas. I will definitely take more classes with her!” – Ginny





Smiling woman with blonde hair wearing a colorful patterned sweater standing in front of abstract artwork

Hi, I’m Heather Neilson

Welcome! I'm so glad you're here.
This creative journey is about discovering that making art doesn’t have to feel like a struggle—it can be energizing, playful, and deeply rewarding.

My approach is designed to make the creative process feel natural and exciting. We'll embrace challenges that encourage growth without feeling overwhelming, helping you tap into your own authentic voice and vision. I’m here to support you, offer fresh perspectives, and help you see your potential in new and inspiring ways. Together, we’ll explore what drives your creativity and how to nurture it with confidence and joy.

Learn more about me here.