Versatile is the word that most aptly describes the artist and sculptor, Heiner Hertling, for creating art in variety of media has become one of his trademarks. Whether they are carefully rendered watercolors, outdoor "Plein-air" paintings, loose impressionistic oils or small and life-sized sculptures, all are products of this multi-talented artist. Heiner, a member of the prestigious Society of Animal Artists, exhibits his work regularly in the Society's shows as well as many others, locally and across the county. He was also featured in an article in the January 2008 issue of American Artist Magazine. Heiner received formal art training in Hamburg, Germany. He immigrated to the United States in 1965, where he worked as a commercial artist until his recent retirement, which now gives him more time to paint. He recently built a new home and studio in Milford, Michigan, where he hopes to establish an art school where he can teach and share his passion for creating art with others. He is also the host of the PBS television series "Your Brush With Nature". This is a half-hour program in which he completes a painting in each show in plein air (out of doors) in various locations and in all weather. The show aired nationally last year in as many as 90 different markets. The second season began in Nov. 07. Heiner has also published a book by the same name, "Your Brush With Nature," that takes the reader through the painting process in an informative and entertaining manner for creating. To name a just a few of his awards and competitions: The 1983 Florida Duck Stamp1984 Michigan Duck and Trout Stamp1992 Michigan Waterfowl Stamp1983 and 1987 Michigan Ducks Unlimited Artist of the Year