#33: The One I Didn’t See — and Someone Else Did
Art, Art Discussion, Art Show, Authenticity, Paint, Portraits, Wall Michael Hebda Art, Art Discussion, Art Show, Authenticity, Paint, Portraits, Wall Michael Hebda

#33: The One I Didn’t See — and Someone Else Did

One of my paintings, All That Glitters is Gold, is currently hanging at Holmfirth Artweek — a piece I haven’t even seen in person at the show. But this week, someone messaged me to say they had… and that it meant something to them. That small moment reminded me why I do this.

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#32: For the Wall or For Myself? Making Art with Eyes on It
Art, Art Discussion, Authenticity, Paint, Portraits, Wall, Show, Art Show Michael Hebda Art, Art Discussion, Authenticity, Paint, Portraits, Wall, Show, Art Show Michael Hebda

#32: For the Wall or For Myself? Making Art with Eyes on It

As Holmfirth Artweek approaches, I’ve been thinking about the shift from making work just for myself to preparing it for public display. This post explores that balancing act — the tension between private instinct and public sharing — and why I think both sides matter.

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#31: The Waiting Room: After the Hand-In, Before the Show
Art, Art Discussion, Authenticity, Paint, Portraits Michael Hebda Art, Art Discussion, Authenticity, Paint, Portraits Michael Hebda

#31: The Waiting Room: After the Hand-In, Before the Show

The paintings are in, waiting patiently to be hung for Holmfirth Artweek. With the making behind me, I’m reflecting on this in-between moment — that breath between completion and being seen — and the quiet anticipation of sharing work that feels like a real turning point.

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#21: The Countdown Canvas: Creating for Holmfirth Artweek Under Pressure
Art, Art Discussion, Authenticity, Paint, Portraits Michael Hebda Art, Art Discussion, Authenticity, Paint, Portraits Michael Hebda

#21: The Countdown Canvas: Creating for Holmfirth Artweek Under Pressure

As Holmfirth Artweek approaches, my studio has become a swirl of colour, energy, and urgency. There's something about a deadline that sharpens the brush and fuels bold decisions. This post captures that electric rush — the chaos, the clarity, and the joy of creating when time is tight.

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#20: Not Always About Art: The Unlikely Inspirations Behind My Work
Art, Art Discussion, Authenticity, Paint, Portraits, Music Michael Hebda Art, Art Discussion, Authenticity, Paint, Portraits, Music Michael Hebda

#20: Not Always About Art: The Unlikely Inspirations Behind My Work

Inspiration doesn’t always come from a gallery. Lately, mine’s come from comedy podcasts, nostalgic indie tracks, and an unforgettable Flat Moon gig involving a theremin and a gold telephone. Here's how these unexpected influences are sneaking into my paintings.

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