Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Hansen.
Kelly, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My name is Kelly, and I have always loved to print since I was a little girl. My mom, Liz, always knew where I had been by the trail of doodled pages that I left behind – usually with my name on them. But never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be sharing my handwriting with others in such a meaningful way.
In 2001, the concept originated as a wedding gift for my best friend, Christi. In trying to think of something unique to do for her, God inspired me to create the word “Love” out of 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
which is often read at weddings, along with her and her husband’s first names and wedding date. I began to create other words such as Hope, Faith, Peace and Joy – each with 2-4 hand-printed Bible verses that send a message pertaining to the word that they are in. Art with a message.
After doing the first 200 or so pieces by hand and sharing them with friends, Mom and I quickly realized the impact my artwork was having on others. There was no doubt that God had a much bigger plan in mind, and, in August 2002, Inspirational Arts was officially born. My mom always liked to say that it was “born out of Love”.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There is always a learning curve when starting anything new, but the one thing I was most confident in was that our ministry/ business was a gift from God. As soon as we officially started our business, my mom and I hit the road and began doing various events all over Houston and surrounding areas and eventually across Texas. We soon created a website, so that we had a place for customers to find our products and to share them with others. For the first 10 years, we did over 75 events a year and began to expand our wholesale business as well, but, in 2012, our lives were forever changed.
After learning that her brother was killed in a motorcycle accident, my mom started having some noticeable health issues. After many tests and imaging of all kinds, she was diagnosed with Lyme Disease, and it wreaked havoc on her nervous system. It gradually affected all of her motor skills which made it extremely difficult for her to communicate. While Mom remained my top priority, God continued to provide for our business in countless ways. I am so grateful that I was able to care for my mom full time over the course of nine years until we lost her in January 2021.
Needless to say, it has been a very difficult road, and life looks very different these days without Mom here. She was such a huge part of what we do, and none of it would have been possible without her love and support. But God is faithful, and He continues to walk with me during this new season and gives me the strength to continue what He started. A picture of Mom and me is front and center at every event I do. She is always with me.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My art is my handwriting. I create original designs – words and images – out of handprinted Bible verses. Each piece contains 2-4 verses that send a message pertaining to the word or image they are in. Art with a message. I love to print, and I love God’s Word. To be able to combine the two in such unique way is the best gift of all.
One aspect of my business that I absolutely love are custom orders. These original pieces make wonderful gifts to celebrate new babies, baptisms, confirmations, birthdays, weddings and more. Each piece is done by hand to order, and customers are able to select their own Bible verses, personal content and ink color. They are lasting keepsakes .
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Most people may not know that I play the piano and actually attended the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts here in Houston, TX.
Pricing:
- Our products include stickers, magnets, cards, prints, tote bags and our specialty line of pillowcases called Resting on His Word
- Our prices range from $4 – $50
- Custom pieces start at $50+
Contact Info:
- Website: http://inspirationalarts.net
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/inspirationalartsbykellyhansen
- Facebook: http://facebook.com/inspirationalartsbykellyhansen2
