Hailing from Denmark, Printmaker and Artist Heidi Jespersen knows a thing or two about good design. She also knows what it means for a close loved one to receive a cancer diagnosis, having supported her daughter through her cancer treatment. Understanding the changes cancer can cause for both your health and your appearance as a woman, her design "Self Love" engages with the divine feminine and all of the power that lies within it. The gorgeous ladies in the print remind me of the incredible network of friends that rallied around me during my treatment. Unlocking in themselves the strength and harmony that it evokes, we hope all the ladies who wear this scarf are also reminded of the women that can be found within our Bravery Community. 

Em x

Welcome to the Bravery family, Heidi! Can you tell us a little about yourself and how your love for design began? 

Since I was a kid, I've always loved being creative! By chance I started an apprenticeship as a graphic designer and the development since my apprenticeship has been enormous. Making designs for textiles started as a hobby four years ago and has now become part of my livelihood! I love it!

Your gorgeous graphic designs feature all sorts of subject matter - from fabulous florals, to adorable animals, to worldly landscapes - Where do you look for inspiration before starting each design?

 It's very different where I find my inspiration. Nature is a great source of inspiration, travelling, books, pictures. However, there is no doubt that I love colours and am drawn to them and a good colour scheme. I think it's just as important as the motif itself.

We adore the lovely ladies in your piece and its bold celebration of the female form! Can you tell us a bit about how this design came about?

When I saw the call for Bravery Co's design challenge, I had no doubts! I wanted to honour the woman and show that even if you are facing a serious illness where you can lose the most feminine part of your body - your hair and chest - you are still beautiful! We women need to be better at caring for ourselves, self-love! Because that's the only way we can really be something for others! 

The scarf is a tribute to our daughter, who a few years ago took up the fight against cancer herself! She is the coolest woman I know! I am so excited to give her this scarf!

You mentioned that your daughter has had an experience with cancer. Can you tell us about your experience supporting someone through treatment and offer any advice to others who may find themselves in a similar position? (If this questions is too hard please skip over it!)

I think at the end of the day, my best advice is that the most important thing is to be present. The sufferer needs to know you are there! At all times! To listen, to give a hug! Even the simplest things can make a difference! Dinner, shopping, babysitting, walking the dog... I could go on and on! You can do no wrong!

We can’t wait to see our warriors wearing your design. Do you have a message you’d like to send to the ladies who get to wear your special piece?

You should be the first in line to love you! Take care of yourself! You are special!