By the Hook with Heather Horrocks

Welcome back to Episode 9 of 25 Years, 25 Artists, where creativity meets courage and the unexpected becomes unforgettable. In today’s episode, Tabitha Rickard meets her first guest in recording this podcast series - Heather Horrocks. Heather was a late bloomer in the art world whose journey proves it’s never too late to start something extraordinary.Heather’s story is one of reinvention. Though she always had a knack for drawing, it wasn’t until the upheaval of Covid that she truly leaned into her artistic voice. With traditional paths no longer viable, Heather turned to the unconventional - crocheting with VHS tape. Yes, you heard that right. And it’s as wild and wonderful as it sounds.After returning to Ballarat, Heather found a lifeline in the Ballarat Arts Foundation. The BAF fellowship didn’t just support her - it transformed her identity from someone who dabbled in art to someone who lives it. Her solo exhibition at the Ballarat Art Gallery in 2023 was a testament to that evolution, showcasing her unique medium and fearless creativity.But Heather’s journey also highlights the challenges of being an artist in Australia, where the community is tight-knit but the financial support can be scarce. That’s why she’s passionate about BAF’s role in nurturing emerging talent and why she urges others to support it—because even small grants can spark big breakthroughs.In this episode, Heather shares her inspirations, her favourite Ballarat arts memory, and how mentoring has shaped her practice. Whether you’re an artist, an art lover, or just someone curious about breaking the mould, Heather’s story will leave you inspired.And you can follow Heather on Instragram at Isoyoh13

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