An Interview with Artist Molly Haertle
Meet Molly Haertle, Registered Nurse by day, artist by night. Inspired by the beauty of everyday life, Molly captures the simple moments in distinctive impressionistic oil paintings. She’s currently focusing on a series of charcoal sketches of women caught in solitude, but you’re sure to recognize (and love!) her color-filled landscapes and portraits.
We sat down with our Midwesterner-turned-Austinite to discuss her start in painting, her inspiration and what’s on her horizon.
TSG: First things first, tell us about how you got started painting… MH: I started painting at a very young age. But not many people knew because it was a very personal practice. I actually didn’t show my paintings to anyone until relatively recently! I got back into painting on days off from the hospital. It was a way to deal with the stress of nursing (if you know, you know!).
TSG: We love your focus on figures, especially female figures. Why is this your favorite subject? MH: I love painting the human figure because they’re so much more complex than any other subject. As for painting female figures, honestly, it’s strange that I focus on it because I consider myself such a tomboy! But I’m so inspired by how resilient women are and want to capture that. I’m especially inspired by my mother, who raised 8 kids while battling Lymes disease. I don’t know how she did it.
From left to right: “Olive,” “Felicity”
TSG: While your main medium is impressionistic oil paintings, are you experimenting with any new mediums or styles right now? MH: Yes, I have been doing drawings with charcoal which has been so much fun!
TSG: They’re gorgeous! What inspired you to bring it back to the basics with your series of charcoal sketches? MH: When I started a new nursing job, I felt blocked and had no idea what I should paint. At that time, I wasn’t really motivated, either. So, I went back to my sketchbook and I realized charcoal sketches would be an awesome series - so raw and unfinished. It’s more intimate, which is what I want to reveal through my art.
TSG: Tell us a little bit about Molly Haertle Commissions. How do you collaborate with collectors? MH: I keep it simple! It’s a collaborative process where we discuss sizing, inspiration, color palette, etc. Usually, a client will come to me with photos they want me to paint and we narrow down the color palette.
TSG: What else is coming down the pipeline for Molly Haertle Fine Art? MH: During March, I’ll be doing a residency at Nina Beranto’s jewelry shop. Come shop originals and prints! I’m also excited to start live painting weddings in addition to wedding commissions.
From left to right: “Sandy,” “Adriatic Sea”
TSG: We know this is probably an impossible question, but do you have a favorite piece of work? MH: “Summer” from my ATXGal Series.
TSG: What inspires you as an artist? MH: I’m inspired by the personal challenges of life that we, as humans, go through. I want to capture the simple moments or places that bring joy to people.
TSG: Where can we view your work in person - there’s nothing like seeing your fabulous paintings IRL! MH: I’m part of ATXGals, so you can find my works of art at their shows, which are like parties!
TSG: And, finally, we have to ask... as a newer Austinite, what does a perfect day in our city look like? MH: A slow morning of checking out a new coffee shop, running around Lady Bird Lake, followed by an evening meeting up with friends or painting!
View more of Molly’s beautiful work, purchase a painting or print or commission something original.