10/17/2023
Hi! I’m Heidi — an upcycle artist with a passion for sustainability and textile art.
Born and raised on the sunny east coast of Australia but currently based in Vancouver, B.C. My background is Chinese and a European mix. Growing up, my Chinese heritage was neglected and, as a result, that part of my identity felt very foreign. Especially my Chinese name, Nimvar, given to me by my grandfather. I felt that in the journey of accepting all of myself, also meant developing a stronger connection to my Chinese identity. Hence, it was only fitting to name my passion and first business as Nimvar - as a way to reconnect and familiarize myself with the name.
I moved to Vancouver two years ago and began upcycling blankets into jackets and coats. To help fund the expenses of living in the most expensive city in Canada, I started selling these handmade pieces at markets. One upcycled item led to another and I soon found my niche - Upcycled overalls. I just love the childlike curiosity and playfulness about them.
After a year of markets and underpricing my items, I was becoming my own one woman sweatshop. It pulled the joy away from my sewing so I decided to slow down. I started an upcycling service, where I create Nimvar pieces out of items you already own. It allows me to keep creating and for you to recycle your unwanted or preloved things. I also run sewing workshops where you can learn to upcycle your own clothes and the skills to make a sustainable difference in the world.
My greatest adventure above all my travels has been one of connection - with nature, my friends and the community. Nimvar, no matter where it goes, has given me the most wonderful opportunity to explore this.
Thank you everyone for your new and continued support. I can’t wait to see where the adventure takes us.
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