Robbinsdale Artist Inspired by Thoreau’s “Walden”

Henry David Thoreau published “Walden, or Life in the Woods” in 1854 and it is still inspiring people today. 


“I went to school for interior architecture so I have a big background in art,” said multi talented Robbinsdale resident Heather Renne.

“But my profession is not as an artist. It’s very much a hobby for me,” Renne said.
 Nevertheless, she has proven herself a gifted illustrator, completing a project combining her favorite book with a beloved passion.

“I am a big advocate for the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota. Used to volunteer there a lot. Also a big book lover. This has been my favorite book since I was thirteen. I discovered it. And I was looking for my next art project and I decided to put two and two together to see if I could illustrate an edition. When I found out that Walden was in the public domain, found out anyone could publish any version of it they wanted, I thought that would be a really fun project,” said Renne.


Thoreau would approve.


She began last April and wrapped it up in October.

“And I would say that I worked on it almost every day but just for an hour or two,” said Renne.


The book is available online and at book-signing events.


Heather believes the book’s message is still relevant.

“The fact that it’s on autonomy and self sustenance, I think it really rings true right now. Just people depending on and relying on themselves more that other agencies to support them. And to kind of get out there an experience your freedom,” said Renne.

Renne says she thinks about Thoreau and his quest to live in the woods.

“I think about it every day. I’d like to. I would like to some day,” said Renne.


Heather Renne will be at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota open house from noon-4:00 on February 2 signing and selling copies to raise money for the center. 

Robbinsdale