Meet the Artist: Student Designer Inspired by Fabrics

The Needham Merchants Association's "A Chair To Remember" project brings together local artists, businesses and organizations in an effort to draw more people downtown and encourage them to shop local.

Placed throughout downtown Needham, each Adirondack chair has its own theme and was painted by a local artist. The chairs will be auctioned off at an event in September, with proceeds to benefit town beautification projects and local students.

Needham Patch will be profiling some of the artists behind these creations throughout the summer. Today, we chat with Mae Hardebeck, who designed the chair that was on display this summer at Home Trends.

Want to own this chair? Bid on it at the auction set Sept. 29.

For a full list of chairs, artists and locations, click here.

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Title: "Nikki Beach"
Artist: Mae Hardebeck
Sponsored by: Home Trends
Find it at: Home Trends, 1085 Great Plain Ave.

Why did you decide to participate in this project? I thought it was a neat idea to showcase local artists' work while benefiting the town. I like the idea of helping to bring a community together through art.

What was your inspiration for the piece? The intricate fabrics in Home Trends gave me the idea for a cool, Nantucket kind of vibe for my design. I think it is a chair that people can relax in.

What is your background as an artist? I really got started in Needham High School, where I have participated in the art program for two years now.

What is your medium of choice? I really like designs and detailing with just a Sharpie pen, but I also love to explore with all different types of mediums. The messier, the better!

What are your future art goals? I would like to continue art throughout my whole life, even if I don't become an artist as my occupation. I think the creativity that I have developed over the many years of experimenting with art has influenced me in all aspects of my life. I hope to continue to enjoy and appreciate all types of art!

Where can someone see more of your work? As a junior in Needham High School, I will be enrolled in AP Art and therefore chugging out a lot of artwork over the course of the next year. Please visit the high school art wing!

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Click here to read more profiles of "A Chair To Remember" artists.