Meet Heather Eck | Intuitive Artist, Synesthete and Color Reader

We had the good fortune of connecting with Heather Eck and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Heather, why did you pursue a creative career?
I feel like my creative career was inevitable—its been a big part of my life from when I was just a kid. I didn’t just choose art; it chose me when I was very little and curious about everything. I have something called synesthesia, which means my senses get crossed and I have a unique ability to see and sense color when I hear music, taste food and beverages, and read. I have a deep connection to color and energy, and my ability to see and feel beyond the surface made creativity my most natural language. I’ve always been drawn to creative expression, exploring creative outlets like chorus, drama, guitar, and art.
As a child, I translated music into sketches, noticed color in film and TV in a way others didn’t, and sensed unseen energy around people. My fascination with color wasn’t just about aesthetics but about meaning, healing, and connection. Over time, that evolved into my work with Spirit Portraits, chakras, and intuitive art—giving others a way to see themselves in a new light.
Ultimately, my creative career bridges the seen and unseen, the tangible and the energetic. I pursued it because it’s how I experience the world, and now I help others experience it, too.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is all about seeing beyond the surface—translating energy, emotion, and spirit into color and form. I create Spirit Portraits, which are intuitive, hand-painted pieces that capture a person’s unique energy, aura, and essence. Through my synesthesia, I perceive colors, shapes, and movements that reflect a person’s inner world, and I use that ability to bring healing, clarity, and self-discovery to my clients. What sets my work apart is the deeply personal and energetic connection I have with each piece I create. These are not just paintings; they’re visual representations of someone’s spirit, their journey, and the unseen layers of their being. I also integrate my knowledge of chakras and color healing, helping people realign their energy and step into their highest potential.

This has not been an easy path! While I’ve always been drawn to art and color, it took me a long time to fully understand and embrace my gifts. Growing up, I thought everyone saw colors in music or felt energy in shades and shapes—it wasn’t until adulthood that I realized my experience was unique. Discovering my synesthesia was a game-changer. It permitted me to step fully into my calling as an artist, healer, and intuitive.
Like many creatives, I faced challenges—self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the struggle of turning my passion into a sustainable business. I am day by day, working on dismantling these obstacles by staying true to my purpose and surrounding myself with mentors, artists, and spiritual teachers who encourage me to keep going. One of the most significant turning points was realizing that my art wasn’t just about making something beautiful—it was about helping people heal, see themselves more clearly, and embrace their own inner magic. That’s when everything shifted.

I believe that color is a language of the soul—it has the power to heal, transform, and reveal truths we might not even be aware of. My work is an invitation to explore that language, to see yourself in a new way, and to reconnect with the energy that makes you you. Whether through my Spirit Portraits, chakra work, or hand-painted art pieces, everything I create is infused with intention, intuition, and a mystical touch.
At the end of the day, I want people to know that they are vibrant, radiant beings with limitless potential. If my art can help someone recognize that in themselves, then I know I’m doing what I was meant to do.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Holly Springs
Breakfast at New York Bagel – Starting the trip with the best bagels and coffee in town. The perfect fuel for the day ahead! DIY Jewelry at Adventures in Bloom – A super fun hands-on experience where you can stamp your own custom jewelry piece—great for a keepsake from the trip!
Lunch at My Way Tavern – A laid-back local favorite with great burgers, salads, and craft beers.
Afternoon at Local Time Brewery – One of the original craft breweries in the area. A great place to unwind with a local brew in a calm and quiet environment
Dinner at Cristos Bistro – Cozy and delicious, with the best Italian food in town. We’ll savor the pasta and maybe split a dessert!

Day 2: Fuquay-Varina
Breakfast at Stick Boy Bread Co. – Grab a warm cinnamon roll or a fresh scone with coffee to start the day.
Explore Downtown Fuquay & Art Murals – Walking through local shops, checking out the murals, and soaking in the charm of the historic downtown area.
Lunch at The Mason Jar Tavern – A Southern-inspired spot with delicious comfort food and a great atmosphere.
Evening at Bombshell Beer Company – This women-owned brewery is a fun spot to hang out, especially if there’s live music or a food truck!

Day 3: Apex
Brunch at La Farm – A cozy spot with great french food and pastries.
Visit Downtown Apex – Explore the cute boutiques and antique shops and maybe pick up a few unique finds.
Lunch at Salem Street Pub – A classic Apex favorite with excellent burgers and a fun vibe.
Final Dinner at Daniels – A lovely dinner spot with fresh, Italian-inspired dishes to wrap up a fantastic trip!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I love this question because it’s a reminder that we’re never truly on this journey alone. First and foremost, my shoutout goes to my family, who’ve been my unwavering support system from the beginning. Their encouragement allowed me to explore my creativity fearlessly and pursue my passion for art and healing. Their recent support enabled me to travel to France for a two week artist residence at Chateau d’Orquevaux.

I also want to recognize my community—those who have trusted me to create their Spirit Portraits and engage with my art. Each person who has embraced this journey with me has fueled my passion and pushed me to grow.
A special shoutout to my friend Rose Wippich for collaborating on the ’12 Days of Holiday Healing Giveaway’ and bringing her own unique energy into our work together. And, of course, to the friends and teachers who have guided me—whether through formal training or those chance encounters that left a lasting impact.

I am deeply grateful for every bit of love, mentorship, and encouragement has contributed to where I am today.

Website: https://www.heathereck.com

Instagram: @heathereckartist

Image Credits
Heather Eck, Photographer