Culture | Apr. 2024
A PAINTERLY APPROACH
By Morgan Hogerty
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA PONCE
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST
Erin Henkel wearing Proenza Schouler, Neiman Marcus Northbrook
Surviving an aggressive stage 3 breast cancer diagnosis almost 10 years ago, ERIN HENKEL understands the importance of being grateful. A Cincinnati native, Henkel found her way back to the Midwest after living in Charleston and New York City. She, her husband, and two daughters now call Lake Bluff home. Henkel stays busy chasing after her active family, working as an event coordinator for the Lake Forest Book Store, and as a painter specializing in custom pieces. Capturing important moments and places for her clients means the world to her. To learn more about Henkel’s art, follow her on Instagram @erinhenkelpaintings and online at erinhenkel.com. Her works can be seen in person at Vintage Refined, a super cool furniture gallery in the West Loop, and will soon be gracing the walls at Lake Bluff ’s Prairie. Henkel set aside the family planner, books, and paint brushes to share how she stays current in a colorful world.
ON HER NIGHTSTAND
“Working at the Lake Forest Book Store has given me access to endless ARCs (advanced reader copies), which, as a book nerd, is super exciting. I also have access to a steady stream of insightful critiques from the passionate readers who work there. I usually read four or five books a month so there is a heavy and constant rotation on my nightstand. Some recent favorites have been The Little Liar, The Art Thief: A True Story of Love, Crime, and a Dangerous Obsession, and The River We Remember.”
IN HER EARBUDS
“I love Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus. Julia interviews women who are older and wiser than her and while I’m neither, I like to think we’d be fast friends. It’s a great listen while I’m walking the dog.”
ON HER MOBILE
“I start every morning with Wordle. I report my score to a small group of friends, which keeps us all very competitive. I’ve heard Matt Damon and the guys from SmartLess do the same thing … so, we’re in good company. I also love to search Instagram for interior design and travel ideas. I love everything mid-century (@dc_hillier is a fun follow if you like looking at mid-century architecture like I do). I suppose I also search recipes since my family insists on eating every day.”
