Hi! I’m Nala Heer - the owner, artist, instructor, and heart behind Zara Studio & Co.

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I’m a local artist from Kewaunee, WI, where I was born and raised. I have two children, Sven and Salem, and I’m married to my best friend, Brady. We are animal lovers and love supporting art in all forms, music, and color. We enjoy spending time outside, exploring local trails and parks, and spending time at our local beaches.

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My journey as an artist started at a young age, painting alongside my mother. I learned most of what I know from watching her paint sunflowers and the small beautiful moments in life. She taught me how to paint with watercolors and acrylic. From the start, art wasn’t about perfection, it was about creating something meaningful alongside someone you love.

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For a long time, though, I put my art on the back burner to focus on work and the practical parts of life. But after becoming a mom, I found my way back to painting during a season of searching, trying to balance being present for my family while holding on to the parts of myself that bring me joy. Becoming a parent also opened my eyes to how important it is to foster creativity at a young age, and how few opportunities there are for kids to explore art in a relaxed, encouraging environment.

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What started as a few pet portraits during the holidays turned into something much bigger: a dream of sharing art with my community in a way that feels fun and welcoming for people of all ages.

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Zara Studio & Co. is how I bring that dream to life. Whether it’s a paint & sip event, a private paint party, or face painting, my goal is to help the creative spirit inside each person blossom. I want you, your kids, or anyone in your life to feel confident picking up a brush, exploring color, and creating something joyful.

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Art is for everyone - messy, colorful, imperfect, and full of life. And it’s my passion to make it easy and fun for anyone to experience that joy, whether at home, in person, or alongside family and friends.

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Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping me grow this dream into something that spreads creativity and happiness. I can’t wait to create something beautiful with you!