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Hi There!
I’m Heather
Bernklau.

I’m a Visual Designer and Brand Strategist helping founders and creative teams turn big ideas into clear, compelling brands and experiences.

WORK WITH ME
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See my work

PHARMACEUTICAL + HEALTHCARE

I’ve spent over a decade developing visual identity, logos, iconography, and data visualization systems for disease education campaigns in oncology and rare disease with award-winning creative teams. This work has been recognized with 2 Gold Bulldog PR Awards, 2 Creative FLOOR Healthcare Awards, and named a finalist for a Manny Award in 2025.

Because this work involves client-confidential intellectual property, the full case studies are password-protected.

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arts + culture

As Fractional Designer and Art Director, I’ve developed brand systems and identities in arts, education, and tech fields, defining brand voice, personality, and visual direction through collaborative working sessions.

My work has helped inspire meaningful community engagement, increase enrollment, and provide a path forward for independent creators and organizations to represent themselves in the world authentically.

See public case studies

When people come to me, they’re usually feeling…

  • “The current branding is dated, but I don't know where to go from here."

  • “Having multiple offerings in our business, we’re conflicted on how to attract audiences.”

  • “There's a strong mission, but we’re unsure how to translate that vision."

  • “Everything looks fine, but it doesn't reflect our essence or personality."

What i
can help you do

Clarify your brand and audience

Shape a cohesive creative direction

Make confident creative decisions

See case studies

  • “Whether we're tackling a challenging brief or brainstorming new ideas, Heather's enthusiasm and passion for her work make the process both productive and enjoyable.”

    Al Matesic, VP Technology Director

  • "Heather is a remarkable creative and an excellent addition to any agency […]"No" isn't a word in her vocabulary—she takes on every challenge with a smile, and every team is better when she's on.”

    Carly Civello, Group Art Supervisor

  • "I am thankful for Heather's thorough and thoughtful guidance that makes me feel safe to explore & expand my brand and business"

    Afua Danso, GRAMMY Awards® Considered Recording Artist 

ways to work together

I work with a small number of clients at a time in order to provide exceptional dedication and attention to each project.

A focused deep-dive to help you get unstuck, refine your vision, and move forward with clarity. Great for moments of transition, confusion, or new ideas.

CREATIVE CLARITY INTENSIVE

Ongoing support to help you shape direction, make decisions, and keep everything aligned as your work evolves. Best for founders and teams building something meaningful.

FRACTIONAL CREATIVE DIRECTION

Custom engagements for projects serving arts, culture, community spaces, and experience-driven work. Best for organizations and collaborators shaping cultural or artistic initiatives.

CREATIVE CONSULTING
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ready to do work that feels like play?

For partnership inquiries, or to set up a 30-minute Chaos to Clarity session, fill out the form below and we’ll find the path forward, together.