From Canvas to Carpet: Heather Mclean's Art Comes to Life with Mafi Rugs

At the intersection of artistry and craftsmanship, Heather Mclean’s modern abstract paintings have found a stunning new form—luxurious hand-knotted area rugs, thanks to an exclusive collaboration with Mafi Rugs. This partnership, facilitated by Seldens Designer Home Furnishings, transforms Heather’s vibrant visual perspectives into dramatic, custom pieces for home décor, offering a unique way to bring art from the walls to the floor.

Heather Mclean, a Northwest-based artist known for her abstract interpretations of the world around her, draws inspiration from both nature and the textures of everyday life. Her journey as an artist began early, viewing the world “through a different lens” and channeling her feelings onto canvas as a therapeutic form of self-expression. Heather’s studies at the University of Washington and later in Rome, Italy, enriched her artistic foundation, blending a love for art history with bold contemporary expression.

When Mafi Rugs approached Heather to collaborate, the idea of translating her art into area rugs intrigued her. Reflecting on the process, Heather shared, “At first, I wasn’t sure what that would be like, but once I started going through the process, I fell in love with the idea. Just picking up the colors, feeling the texture of the rugs, and knowing what they’re going to be made into—it was a really special experience.”

The journey was deeply hands-on. Heather worked closely with the Mafi Rugs team to match the colors of her artwork to vibrant yarn poms, ensuring her vision translated beautifully into textile form. The rugs were then hand-knotted by skilled artisans in India, preserving the intricate details of Heather’s art while imbuing each piece with the luxurious craftsmanship Mafi is known for.

For Heather, seeing her paintings woven into rugs has been a transformative experience. “It’s hard to describe,” she said. “I’ve done art since I was little, and to see it come to life in a different way is really special. I’m so grateful and excited for this next chapter.”

This collaboration embodies Mafi Rugs’ mission of “presenting fashion-forward designs from the ground up,” showcasing Heather’s bold, modern style in a new dimension. In partnership with Seldens, this project also highlights the Puget Sound’s largest selection of area rugs, offering homeowners unparalleled opportunities to blend personal style with artistic heritage.

Create Your Own Masterpiece
Inspired by Heather’s story? You too can collaborate with Mafi Rugs to create one-of-a-kind area rugs tailored to your unique style and vision. From selecting colors and textures to defining the perfect dimensions, the possibilities are endless. Visit Seldens to explore how you can transform your favorite artwork or design concept into a beautiful, custom rug for your home.

Learn more about Heather Mclean's artwork and shop her one-of-a-kind area rugs here.