A Bittersweet Parting - Farewell to Heidi Bielenberg
It has been such a pleasure getting to put my creative forces to work at River Arts these past 4+ years. I've grown so much, from starting out as an administrative assistant to being entrusted with the challenge of opening a new clay studio. Nothing feels better than loading (and unloading!) the kiln and seeing the drastic variety of skill levels and artistic imagination, all going in together. A true melting pot (except we hope the glazes don't actually melt too much and drip on the shelves....potters will understand!). Thank you to all the people who I've worked with throughout the years, from kids who have grown with the River Arts clay programs, to caring and invested board members who've been there to lend an ear. I hope you will stay in touch and follow my pottery journey!
-Heidi Bielenberg
Goodbyes and Warm Wishes
“I just want to add that Heidi has been a gem at River Arts, took on many projects, great decision maker and added tremendously to the core of River Arts growth.”
“During Heidi’s time with River Arts, she brought us all a sense grace, a boundless well of creativity and a strong vision of what River Arts could and should be. She will be remembered by so many as the face of River Arts - during the good times and the challenges of the Pandemic. We are all better for her presence with River Arts. I wish her a wealth of good wishes as she explores and develops her gifts.”
“Best of luck on your next adventure, Heidi. I’m excited to see where you go from here.”
“It is sad to say good-bye to Heidi who has tirelessly shepherded River Arts through thick and thin. Without her expertise River Arts would not have the clay studio, the fabulous website, the blog, the events coordination and so many other things over the years. When someone is so talented it is hard to lose them but life changes and we wish Heidi lots of success in her new endeavors. It is time she takes flight to a new world. Best of Luck. ”
“Heidi has been the face of art in Morrisville for years, and it will not be the same without her. ”
“Heidi, thank you so much for all that you have done for River Arts. While I am new on the board and Covid made it rare for us to interact in person, I do know that you bring a great energy, enthusiasm, and passion for the arts and it has been so lovely to interact with you during my year and a half here. I appreciate your help on the Grants Committee and for supporting me so well as I tried to navigate the application process. I know that the board has always deeply respected your work and your dedication to this organization and any other organization will be lucky to have you! I wish you luck in following your dreams and embarking on the next chapter of your life! All the best.”
“Heidi has been a great source of encouragement and inspiration in the clay studio. Her genuine warmth, dedication and humor will be missed.”
“River Arts without Heidi does not seem possible. The smile, the energy, the dedication. But I do understand the need to move on. And I wish you the greatest success in whatever your next endeavor will be. ”
“To me, Heidi represents everything we are fostering at River Arts. An amazing artist in her own right who has devoted years of creative energy and love to our organization. We will miss you so, Heidi, congratulations on your artistic leap!”
“Your spirited and creative personality has made a difference at River Arts over these past four years. I’ll miss working with you, especially sharing gift shop duties recently. I applaud your brave decision to move on. You have an even brighter future ahead of you. ”
“Heidi has been my dearest friend since that fateful day in 2018, when I walked into River Arts for the first time to chat with her about joining the clay studio. Heidi has bounds of energy, is intensely creative, and has a genuine love for making connections with people. It has been a joy to watch Heidi’s ambition in pottery grow and I know that taking a step towards full-time artistry has been a longtime dream. I wish you the best of luck, even if it is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to you. Have fun traveling, making pots, and finding new adventures.”