Handmade Portraits: The Beerhorst Family

weirdwolf

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I was first intrigued by The Beerhorst Family, a.k.a. studiobeerhorst, when I stumbled upon images of their eye-catching Wonder Wagon. An Amish-buggy-turned-mobile-art-show, the Wagon was originally designed as an installation piece for Michigan’s art fest, Art Prize. This folksy ride now parks itself in the Beerhorsts’ driveway and continues to befuddle and delight their neighbors in downtown Grand Rapids.

Wherever Rick and Brenda Beerhorst go with their six kids, they inspire curiosity. Are they part of a circus? Hippies? A cult? The Beerhorsts make their living creating art and spend all of their time together at the Beerhorst compound. The children, ages 6 to 19, subscribe to “un-schooling,” a structure-less approach to homeschooling that does not focus on formal classes, textbooks or tests. The kids are encouraged to follow whatever interests them: beekeeping, homemade video game cabinets, and hand-drawn comic books currently make up their curriculum. To some, the hands-off approach to education can seem reckless, to others, it’s pure inspiration. The Beerhorst kids all have very different personalities, but what struck me the most was how articulate and independent all of them were — I would even say fearless.

The Beerhorst family and friends.

Brenda and Rick believe that their faith in God is what keeps the family steady. Brenda told me, ”Everybody has to make their own path in this life and I do think about that for our kids. There have been times when I project the future and I think, will my kids be ready? But they’ve grown up with Rick and I as examples. And they’ve seen us struggle and they’ve seen us pray together and they’ve seen things change because of that prayer.” Find out more about the Beerhorsts on Brenda’s blog and their Flickr stream.

UPDATE: Congratulations to Romy Jenkins of Grammiesquiltz winner of The Beerhorst Family Sweepstakes! 

Enter The Beerhorst Family sweepstakes! Comment below to enter to win a Studiobeerhorst Girl With White Roses print. At 12 p.m. ET Wednesday, August 31, 2011 we will pick at random one commenter. (We apologize in advance that this sweepstakes is only open to U.S. folks over 18. Void where prohibited. Download a PDF of the full Rules and Regulations.)

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  • SweetiePieCollars

    SweetiePieCollars says:

    Wow! I am loving their art. Reminds me of Frida. And of the Wissman family- a family of 14-ish, who all sing! http://www.wissmannfamily.com/.

    272 days ago

  • DessertWine

    DessertWine says:

    Important to remember that societal norms are not the only options....

    272 days ago

  • kathyjohnson3

    kathyjohnson3 says:

    Wonderful article! Love the sock monkey! Thanks for sharing!

    272 days ago

  • rebourne

    rebourne says:

    incredibly inspiring.

    272 days ago

  • myvintagecrush

    myvintagecrush says:

    Very talented family!

    272 days ago

  • stockannette

    stockannette says:

    Amazingly fun and wonderful!

    272 days ago

  • CarryTheWord

    CarryTheWord says:

    Wonderful story of faith and family!

    272 days ago

  • SweetMagnoliaLane

    SweetMagnoliaLane says:

    Wow I love Rick's etsy shop!

    272 days ago

  • AurDenDesigns

    AurDenDesigns says:

    How wonderful. This is a gift my children have giving me. So inspiring and how lucky they are to follow their inspiration and curiosity. It is cool to be creatively weird.

    272 days ago

  • baconsquarefarm

    baconsquarefarm says:

    What a wonderful talented family~

    272 days ago

  • AliceCloset

    AliceCloset says:

    Love this story!! A fantastic family and great shop :D

    272 days ago

  • jammerjewelry

    jammerjewelry says:

    Great story, Both Interesting and colorful. Thanks!

    272 days ago

  • jennyleefowler

    jennyleefowler says:

    Such an inspiration! Happy to see all of their work represented here.

    272 days ago

  • subrok

    subrok says:

    Nice Portrait.

    272 days ago

  • Iammie

    Iammie says:

    Cool! Love it!

    272 days ago

  • uglyyellow

    uglyyellow says:

    This is magical! ♥

    272 days ago

  • GoodTimeJunkin

    GoodTimeJunkin says:

    Very inspiring way to encourage creativity with little ones.

    272 days ago

  • DivinelyDesignedBJM

    DivinelyDesignedBJM says:

    Great imaginations! What an inspiration to all of us!

    272 days ago

  • hypericumfragile

    hypericumfragile says:

    Great story!

    272 days ago

  • sparrowgrey

    sparrowgrey says:

    Awesome story, great post!

    272 days ago

  • abitofmonkeybusiness

    abitofmonkeybusiness says:

    Very``inspiring!!

    272 days ago

  • jmartinez78

    jmartinez78 says:

    Wonderful video! How can I join their clan?

    272 days ago

  • hollyberry67

    hollyberry67 says:

    This family is so talented! I love the way they live.

    272 days ago

  • LittleMissCards

    LittleMissCards says:

    It won't play for me *pout*

    272 days ago

  • jibbyandjuna

    jibbyandjuna says:

    Go Beerhorsts!

    272 days ago

  • OuterKnits

    OuterKnits says:

    Interesting.

    272 days ago

  • MootiDesigns

    MootiDesigns says:

    Great photography and story.

    272 days ago

  • JasmineLund

    JasmineLund says:

    Inspiring! Thank God for parents who see their duty as parents clearly - who don't give their kids up to the government, who are brave enough to bring their children up as they ought, no matter what the immediate consequences are.

    272 days ago

  • earthakitsch

    earthakitsch says:

    Absolutely wonderful.

    272 days ago

  • HelloMountains

    HelloMountains says:

    I wish i could live like this with my love and our childs!

    272 days ago

  • ScrappyTudeStudios

    ScrappyTudeStudios says:

    Seriously?

    272 days ago

  • glasfaden

    glasfaden says:

    Inspiring! Love the paintings. Thanks for sharing!

    272 days ago

  • lovemilag

    lovemilag says:

    I feel for these children, and I hope that they are truly prepared to make their own way in this world.

    272 days ago

  • blueskyclouds

    blueskyclouds says:

    I love studiobeerhorst..I have bought several of their prints....their work is so full of heart and soul. True talents!!! I'm so glad to see the story behind their family and work.

    272 days ago

  • lovemilag

    lovemilag says:

    I feel for these children, and I hope that they can live independently in this world. They seem so unprepared.

    272 days ago

  • mamif

    mamif says:

    that's so great

    272 days ago

  • HibouCards

    HibouCards says:

    pretty cool, thanks for sharing :)

    272 days ago

  • scoutandrescue

    scoutandrescue says:

    Amazing & beautiful portrait. Still, the kids will surely grow up to revolt, become accountants. Grass is often greener on the otherside even from an artisitc home.

    272 days ago

  • theroyal

    theroyal says:

    what they have accomplished is my vision of utopia

    272 days ago

  • joycecountrywool

    joycecountrywool says:

    If they grow up to 'revolt'; then so be it. Questioning and always looking for an alternative route is part of creating. We have nine children and have always encouraged them to go their own way. If they choose accountancy or plumbing, and as long as they continue to learn, we'll be happy!

    272 days ago

  • jamiespinello

    jamiespinello says:

    Interesting....

    272 days ago

  • jamiespinello

    jamiespinello says:

    6 kids but a gazillion people in the photo...also,the woman to the right of the sunflower looks sad

    272 days ago

  • jamiespinello

    jamiespinello says:

    Kind of reminds me of portlandia...

    272 days ago

  • PeachyKeenCreations

    PeachyKeenCreations says:

    No one ever made history by playing by the rules. I don't think there would be any revolution. The parents seem willing to let their children follow their hearts. How can you revolt against that? Ars longa vita brevis! :) This family gets this saying. Love it!

    272 days ago

  • studiobeerhorst

    studiobeerhorst says:

    All those people are friends that worked with us on our Art Prize project last year. Any you are very observant jamiespinello, our dear friend on the bench struggles with sad spells from time to time.

    272 days ago

  • extase

    extase says:

    amazing! i didn't realize you guys were connected in such a way. i've been a fan of all of your works for a while. congrats! interesting vid.

    272 days ago

  • Ryanplz

    Ryanplz says:

    yes! i've been impatiently waiting for this moment. i know the beerhorst family folks and they are inspiring and wonderful people! i'm glad they're able to share their story here. well deserving for how much heart and soul they put into what they make. happy for you guys!

    272 days ago

  • BowerbirdBazaar

    BowerbirdBazaar says:

    jamiespinello, I took part in the Plan B project (that's me in the front with the long tan dress on the bicycle), and that photo was taken last year. i don't think she's sad there. we didn't really know when the pictures were being taken. she's just looking 'non-chalant'!! none of us are really smiling. she is very nice and was a wonderful help to the project. **So excited this Handmade Portrait is here! Like my friend Ryan (Ryanplz, above), we are both lucky to know the Beerhorsts and be inspired by them. They bring a lot of life to Grand Rapids.**

    272 days ago

  • TheScarfTree

    TheScarfTree says:

    Really interesting and such a huge family! Will read more! Thanks for the article!

    272 days ago

  • lilfishstudios

    lilfishstudios says:

    I've been an admirer of this unique and talented family for a few years now and find them extremely inspiring. Wonderful to see them share their story here.

    272 days ago

  • JulieMeyer

    JulieMeyer says:

    I'm inspired by how much freedom you allow for your children! It's wonderful!

    272 days ago

  • galiana

    galiana says:

    What a fascinating family. Hooray for unschooling!

    272 days ago

  • ArchetypalTheatre

    ArchetypalTheatre says:

    Yay! This is such an inspiration. Something like this is what I am working to create in my single parent household with my little one =) Thank you Beerhorst family!

    272 days ago

  • redsweetpea

    redsweetpea says:

    I must say I'm somewhat envious of your lifestyle. How brave to step out and really live through your art. If only we all had so much courage to break the mold and go back to what and who we need to be. Thank you.

    272 days ago

  • PearsonMaron

    PearsonMaron says:

    Loved this. Seems like such an amazing family. Would love to see a longer version.

    272 days ago

  • julieandco

    julieandco says:

    Hey! I know them....since the early 90's! We are lucky to have such fun and passionate people in our town!

    272 days ago

  • VeraVague

    VeraVague says:

    what a stupendous family! thanks for the article :)

    272 days ago

  • acuriousbrood

    acuriousbrood says:

    Thanks for sharing. Very much enjoyed meeting the Beerhorst family. I feel connected to their magic.

    272 days ago

  • RaineDesign

    RaineDesign says:

    WoW, what a cool family. I can only hope to live up to their "Un-Schooling" techniques when I have kids someday! Thanks so much for sharing. :)

    272 days ago

  • Grammiesquiltz

    Grammiesquiltz says:

    I feel for families that spend 8 hours working, 2 hours traveling, 8 hours sleeping, 5 and 45 minutes in other pursuits and only 15 minutes talking to each.

    272 days ago

  • BestDressedJewelry

    BestDressedJewelry says:

    It's so inspiring that people are educating their children this way. It's one of the best ways for the evolution of the human spirit. Children can really delve into their creativity this way! I love it!!!!!!!!

    272 days ago

  • CameronsJewelryBox

    CameronsJewelryBox says:

    Your work is amazing!

    272 days ago

  • Parachute425

    Parachute425 says:

    Interesting and talented family. The artwork is wonderful. Peace and best of luck to you.

    272 days ago

  • chickfamilyink

    chickfamilyink says:

    Tara, another one out of the park. I have been thinking about the Beerhorsts lately and then Bam! you make a video about them. Pure serendipity/synergy. Keep making great work. Thanks.

    272 days ago

  • MementoMinefield

    MementoMinefield says:

    I find this to be extreamly inspiring. What a unique group of people, the kind of people you want to just spend some time talking with. Fantastic choice in story. Thank you.

    272 days ago

  • LittleWrenPottery

    LittleWrenPottery says:

    Amazing family, I think as you get older you do come to realise that its more important to go after what makes you happy in life. Its great that they're doing just that!

    272 days ago

  • MarieVaughnDesign

    MarieVaughnDesign says:

    Great story! My mom would love a hand painted gift like this!

    271 days ago

  • ericawalker

    ericawalker says:

    As always, this is a beautiful portrait. I especially love seeing the children so directly involved.

    271 days ago

  • carriershannon

    carriershannon says:

    it's always a joy to walk and ride past the beerhorst household... the wagon still keeps my head turning and their work is incredibly inspiring!

    271 days ago

  • PonderingSeedsofHope

    PonderingSeedsofHope says:

    Did I just find my old classmate from Calvin College? Wow, Rick has a very talented members in his family. Their living itself is the expression of Art!

    271 days ago

  • emilybosma

    emilybosma says:

    As a neighbor to this fantastic family, I love to see what they keep coming up with! Walks through the neighborhood are much more interesting :)

    271 days ago

  • artworder

    artworder says:

    have enjoyed the inspiration that rick and brenda are for our community!

    271 days ago

  • Sapucha

    Sapucha says:

    Thank you for sharing your story with the etsy community! Look forward to seeing you at Art Prize!!

    271 days ago

  • MissHildebrandt

    MissHildebrandt says:

    Wow. What a visual I just saw. Truly to the core. Truly inspiring.

    271 days ago

  • gingerbreadstars

    gingerbreadstars says:

    Family is an art form and this family makes beautiful art!

    271 days ago

  • SmallEarthVintage

    SmallEarthVintage says:

    Love the Beerhorsts and this profile! They are all so very talented and inspiring. Also, Rose Beerhorst is more well-spoken than many 40-somethings of my acquaintance. Thanks for this glimpse into their lives, Etsy.

    271 days ago

  • lovelierseas

    lovelierseas says:

    Oh I love this. Such an inspiration!

    271 days ago

  • tugboatprintshop

    tugboatprintshop says:

    Lovely feature!

    271 days ago

  • penumbraimages

    penumbraimages says:

    amazing family!!!!! I love all of the handmade portraits they are like jewels beautifully made and always inspiring. thank you for sharing your family with the world

    271 days ago

  • Sandyervinshepherd

    Sandyervinshepherd says:

    Young people need freedom of expression to develop as creative players... they should be encouraged to try skills without fear of failure. Inspiring Family!!

    271 days ago

  • mollytrout

    mollytrout says:

    ~inspiration, move me brightly, light the song with sense & color~~~

    271 days ago

  • rubydash

    rubydash says:

    What a beautiful family! I love that their kids are encouraged to follow their interests and that time for creativity seems almost mandatory, not simply alloted for a short period in the week. Blessings to you Rick and Brenda!

    271 days ago

  • mybutterflyheaven

    mybutterflyheaven says:

    I am so proud to know you personally. You all have been such an inspiration to me at the Fulton Street ARTisian Market and I learned so much at Art Prize. I love reading your blogs, and owning your art. May you all find the richest blessings that life has to offer. I commend you all on following your hearts. LaShelle

    271 days ago

  • saci

    saci says:

    Gorgeous paintings! Thank you for encouraging your kids to create. I'm an art teacher, and wish all children could have their creativity nurtured at home.

    271 days ago

  • mck254

    mck254 says:

    I love seeing the Beerhorst family. I've been following the blog, flickr stream and Etsy shop and was thrilled when I heard that you were doing a Portrait video! All amazing artists.

    271 days ago

  • knitfitt

    knitfitt says:

    Their prints are among my favorites. I love to give them to friends.

    271 days ago

  • TheUntamedHeart

    TheUntamedHeart says:

    What a wonderful story! Thanks for sharing!

    271 days ago

  • treasurebooth

    treasurebooth says:

    I love this. When I think back to doing time in Catholic school, I only wish I had been "un-schooled" myself. It's nice to see a family living how they want to live, not how they should according to contrived standards, expectations, cookie cutter molds etc. Thanks for sharing a bit of your life with us here on Etsy :)

    271 days ago

  • thebeadgirl

    thebeadgirl says:

    as a grand rapids native and neighbor. a fellow art prize exhibitor. and a homeschool mom. i know the beerhorsts and commend them for all they do! congrats on the great feature. you deserve it!

    271 days ago

  • DiemDesignsJewelry

    DiemDesignsJewelry says:

    They are a truly wonderful family!! I am glad to know them!

    271 days ago

  • littlehouseofcolors

    littlehouseofcolors says:

    Very interesting story---a great amount of freedom and unity within one family is very admirable. And everyone seems so happy, without the poison that lives in my household.....the t.v.!

    271 days ago

  • tragicabbot

    tragicabbot says:

    I've driven by that wagon hundreds of times - sheesh - next time I will stop and have a look. Thanks!

    270 days ago

  • VintageHomeShop

    VintageHomeShop says:

    sweet family...making their way and creating in the process. Lots of Love! Camille

    270 days ago

  • AliceCantrell

    AliceCantrell says:

    Wonderful video! What an awesome family.

    270 days ago

  • yerringtonstudio

    yerringtonstudio says:

    A beautiful film of a beautiful family. Love made manifest in the everyday struggle of life and not found wanting. They are being true to their hearts in loving God and their neighbors....Grace and Peace, Tim

    270 days ago

  • Amyvzee

    Amyvzee says:

    Wonderful, simply wonderful :) I am grateful for this family. Thank you Beerhorst's for sharing your life with us.

    270 days ago

  • LichenStudio

    LichenStudio says:

    What a beautiful, talented family! I've long been an admirer of your paintings, and love now being turned on to the amazing rugs and textiles you create. Lovely guitar playing, as well. Un-schooling is such a fascinating concept. I currently homeschool one of my daughters, and have toyed with the idea of allowing her to autodidact, but worry about so many things. Your post gives me courage, and heartens me. Thank you for allowing us a peek into your home.

    270 days ago

  • mountgigantic

    mountgigantic says:

    such an inspiring and creative family :)

    270 days ago

  • 4lilcupcakes

    4lilcupcakes says:

    Fun and different story. wonderfull story.

    270 days ago

  • mizkatie

    mizkatie says:

    What a beautiful story and family!!

    270 days ago

  • CarlaRaeVintage

    CarlaRaeVintage says:

    Marching to the beat of a different drummer. Inspiring and a very loving story. Congrats.

    270 days ago

  • cayennepeppybags

    cayennepeppybags says:

    What a rich heritage they are giving their children. Loved this story

    270 days ago

  • BonChatBoutique

    BonChatBoutique says:

    I agree, such a beautiful story about family and creativity!

    270 days ago

  • deerdominique

    deerdominique says:

    How wonderful, truly.

    270 days ago

  • sophiemarie

    sophiemarie says:

    I appreciate this!

    269 days ago

  • astronuts

    astronuts says:

    It is right my ideal family!

    269 days ago

  • fripperie

    fripperie says:

    An interesting portrait.

    268 days ago

  • adfisher08

    adfisher08 says:

    Amazing family ideals. Beautiful art- creativity, inspiration, innovation and passion are some of the greatest lessons any parent can teach.

    268 days ago

  • LovePlease

    LovePlease says:

    So brave to follow your hearts and be unique individuals...I'm new to Etsy and I am so inspired by all the artwork and blogs...keep strong...

    268 days ago

  • duckychick1974

    duckychick1974 says:

    How wonderful to see a husband and wife working together to inspire their children!

    268 days ago

  • smoothpebble

    smoothpebble says:

    i love the beerhorst family, and their art!! I've been enamored with their block print art for a while now. They inspire me!

    268 days ago

  • AppalachianVintage

    AppalachianVintage says:

    Wow!!! How inspiring!

    268 days ago

  • ItsJustMeEmily

    ItsJustMeEmily says:

    What a great idea.

    268 days ago

  • pippijewelry

    pippijewelry says:

    I would be thrilled to own such a beautiful work of art! Count me in! Thanks! :D

    268 days ago

  • oddgirlart

    oddgirlart says:

    What an amazing family! I can feel the love!

    268 days ago

  • merio13

    merio13 says:

    What an awesome family! And the artwork is amazing!

    268 days ago

  • annasoc1

    annasoc1 says:

    I love these. They have the look of old Flemish paintings.

    268 days ago

  • erikajune

    erikajune says:

    Oh! I love their values and their art! Way to break away from "The Man"!!

    268 days ago

  • HolidayFrill

    HolidayFrill says:

    Love the portrait!

    268 days ago

  • kpkent

    kpkent says:

    Love these portraits. Would make a beautiful focal point in our livingroom. What I love even more is that the art is done as a family!

    268 days ago

  • mefisha

    mefisha says:

    Beautiful portraits and such a talented family!

    268 days ago

  • releia

    releia says:

    Smitten! Inspired....

    268 days ago

  • kceknits

    kceknits says:

    flourishing creativity rocks.

    268 days ago

  • ilikeyoucreations

    ilikeyoucreations says:

    Love your family's work and ideals:)

    268 days ago

  • designinkarnation

    designinkarnation says:

    LOVE! We unschool, too. I love that their focus on togetherness is ART! Inspirational.

    268 days ago

  • jonari

    jonari says:

    If only everyone could be so open minded, live and let live. What a wonderful world it would be...

    268 days ago

  • headpickle

    headpickle says:

    Love this. Thanks for sharing this piece about this inspirational family.

    268 days ago

  • Feltlicious

    Feltlicious says:

    I'm already lucky...I live here in GR and see the family down at our Fulton Street ARTisians market on Sundays! Love my button bracelet from the Sock Monster. The painted artwork is amazing and anyone would be lucky to win!

    268 days ago

  • jnnybee

    jnnybee says:

    how amazing. i would love to win.

    268 days ago

  • SewTechnicolor

    SewTechnicolor says:

    I love this! Very inspiring. Their art is gorgeous- I love the "Eyes Closed" print.

    268 days ago

  • glhearts

    glhearts says:

    I love your family/friends picture! Great looking group of people!!!

    268 days ago

  • angelkat2

    angelkat2 says:

    Thank you for being such a good inspiration! We just created a studio in our home for our two very talented daughters (both <16 years old). One wants to be a fashion designer and creates amazing dresses. The other focuses her talents on illustration and has very detailed work. You can probably tell I'm one very proud mama...:)

    268 days ago

  • tumbleweedprimitives

    tumbleweedprimitives says:

    Your work is beautiful! God Bless your family :-)

    268 days ago

  • PrairieG

    PrairieG says:

    I feel like their story could be turned into a book. A beautiful family making beautiful art!

    268 days ago

  • WoodbisonStudio

    WoodbisonStudio says:

    Love it! Faith, creativity, and allowing kids to find their bliss. What a wonderful way to raise children. I'd love to see a follow up story in ten years about the kids and what they are up to.

    268 days ago

  • sharon100

    sharon100 says:

    I love this style of painting - great use of vibrant color! This talented family is so inspiring!

    268 days ago

  • sherijberi

    sherijberi says:

    As Hurricane Irene draws closer to Baltimore... you bring a ray of sunshine. Young kids, tweens and teens... a family of filled with art and love. We enjoy art in our home and will be inspired to bring more due to your video.

    268 days ago

  • FossilRock

    FossilRock says:

    Kudos to this family for allowing their kids to pursue their passions. I'm not brave enough for unschooling yet, but we did move to homeschooling last year. It's amazing!

    268 days ago

  • pamalamb

    pamalamb says:

    Fascinating!!! Inspiring!!!

    268 days ago

  • dinocat

    dinocat says:

    great inspiration

    268 days ago

  • Dags

    Dags says:

    Agree with the Flemish paintings comparison. Such interesting art!

    268 days ago

  • lpc112

    lpc112 says:

    love the paintings and the textiles, esp the hooked rug!

    268 days ago

  • paperoranges

    paperoranges says:

    Inspiring!!!! Very interesting idea on how to raise children....

    268 days ago

  • JewelsByCoco

    JewelsByCoco says:

    What a talented family! Love the eclectic mix of items they have ~

    268 days ago

  • dianehawkey

    dianehawkey says:

    incredibly awesome

    268 days ago

  • AnnSiobhan

    AnnSiobhan says:

    I'm in awe...such amazing talent and such a nurturing enviroment for the creative souls that are this family. I'm in love with this article, video & their art. Thank you Etsy for introducing us to them.

    268 days ago

  • tofufoofoo

    tofufoofoo says:

    I fell in love with this family! Beautiful story and art.

    268 days ago

  • christiesampson

    christiesampson says:

    Inspiring art and story!

    268 days ago

  • hodgsonho

    hodgsonho says:

    What an amazing journey to support your family through art. I am inspired by your abandon of what others think life should be...

    268 days ago

  • rockcandymosaics

    rockcandymosaics says:

    I am so fascinated by the Beerhorst family and have been following their art for a couple of years!

    268 days ago

  • purplehopy

    purplehopy says:

    What an interesting family!

    268 days ago

  • Dress2ImpressEtsy

    Dress2ImpressEtsy says:

    Very cool and unique.

    268 days ago

  • pumpkinbunny

    pumpkinbunny says:

    this is why i love etsy....there is always something interesting, beautiful, and inspiring to discover....

    268 days ago

  • goodietruevintage

    goodietruevintage says:

    What an AMAZING story!! Do you think they'd consider adopting me? Hehe :) Michigan has so many wonderful artists! Very inspiring, thank you.

    267 days ago

  • ReclaimedDesigns

    ReclaimedDesigns says:

    Such a cool, talented, colorful family! I love the paintings, and the textiles and rugs that are created by the different members of this family.

    267 days ago

  • echogems

    echogems says:

    Baroque-inspired art with a modern twist. Interesting!

    267 days ago

  • mistressknit

    mistressknit says:

    Love this!

    267 days ago

  • susanconnors

    susanconnors says:

    Love your family. So inspiring. And love all the different forms of artwork.

    267 days ago

  • susanconnors

    susanconnors says:

    So inspiring! Glad you're here and being who you are.

    267 days ago

  • AmeliaDesign

    AmeliaDesign says:

    Yay for fellow unschoolers/artistic folks. :D

    267 days ago

  • bridiemurphy

    bridiemurphy says:

    creating a context...and doing what's in your heart. yes.

    267 days ago

  • sharonclancydesigns

    sharonclancydesigns says:

    Such a beautiful creative family. I'm a huge fan of Rick Beerhorst art. Thanks for sharing. :)

    267 days ago

  • BeadsbyOlga

    BeadsbyOlga says:

    A loving, talented,inspiring family and something to look up to...God Bless!

    267 days ago

  • sealioninmycereal

    sealioninmycereal says:

    What a fun family! very inspiring!

    267 days ago

  • RedbirdCottageArt

    RedbirdCottageArt says:

    Inspiring!

    266 days ago

  • necessityisthemother

    necessityisthemother says:

    Waaaaaant that print. Art at its best is a reflection of the beauty and glory of God... I think that is the task at hand.

    266 days ago

  • FruitOfMyHands

    FruitOfMyHands says:

    Like their art, their life and their love of God.

    266 days ago

  • angrygeisha

    angrygeisha says:

    I have so enjoyed stumbling upon this inspiring family through another blog that originates in OR only to find that this fascinating brood lives but a hop, skip, and a jump away. One day I will be a collector...

    266 days ago

  • WhiteDoily

    WhiteDoily says:

    Three cheers to raising children with the chickens!

    266 days ago

  • tinecassidy

    tinecassidy says:

    What a joyous family! The paintings are absolutely beautiful and Brenda's hand hooked rug featured in the Etsy profile is lovely. If I don't win the print, can I have a ride in the wagon instead? ; ) Best to the Beerhorst family and to Etsy.

    266 days ago

  • princessdoodlebeans

    princessdoodlebeans says:

    love this peek into an exceptional MICHIGAN family. Well done Etsy and congrats Beerhorst family. Much handmade love coming to you from Leelanau County <3

    265 days ago

  • kalikaboo

    kalikaboo says:

    AN ABSOLUTE HONOR TO HAVE A CHANCE TO ENTER TO WIN THIS GEOREOUS PRINT! Especially from the kind of life you've been able to raise your children. It is so inspiring to read about your ways of being a family and raising your kids in this world that is filled with so much choas! Beautiful art and a beautiful way of life!

    265 days ago

  • CristinaRTC

    CristinaRTC says:

    This family is by far the most creative and unified one i have grown to know. I am friends with Rose and know of her family and they are ALL inspiring. I am lucky to have met her in an ArtWorks program at theUICA. I don't know if I have told her but she is the one who introduced me and inspired me to set up my own etsy shop. Also I adore Ricks music !u~ Much love for who they are and what they do <3

    265 days ago

  • BlackCatBazaar

    BlackCatBazaar says:

    I am a huge fan from afar! I follow their work on Flickr, as well. Congratulations on your wave making, Beerhorst family ~ may the ripples spread!

    262 days ago

  • boubelina2

    boubelina2 says:

    i have followed this family for many years on flickr and also wrote a blog post about them. i feel akin to their creative spirits and the realness of their lives. have wanted to meet them for the longest times but have settled for letters, cards and the occasional care package.

    262 days ago

  • bluebicicletta

    bluebicicletta says:

    what beautiful paintings and an amazing philosophy! I would love to win a print!

    262 days ago

  • BlueWillowFarm

    BlueWillowFarm says:

    Great and inspiring family! We are a bit Bohemian ourselves - single mom working from home and homeschooling my two girls I adopted from China. Wish we had the chickens and the bees - I'll have to look more into that LOL!

    261 days ago

  • brookstreamstudio

    brookstreamstudio says:

    Ha ha! Very cool...

    260 days ago

  • MadFarmerMotherHen

    MadFarmerMotherHen says:

    awesome and inspiring. i hope some day to craft a similar family! thanks for sharing your struggles and strengths.

    213 days ago

  • livelydawn

    livelydawn says:

    I wonder about the view implied here that 'unschooled' children will have equal opportunities in later life... yes, they may be more open to artistic pursuits and creative occupations, but the nature of 'unschooled' education means that all careers/vocations connected to higher sciences and mathematics are pretty much out of the question (it is very difficult if not impossible to 'pick up' or self learn such subjects). This is not meant as a criticism, as they seem a lovely, caring family -- but this approach to education seems to me to close as many doors as it opens.

    188 days ago

  • alicat73

    alicat73 says:

    Inspirational art and lifestyle! Not just thinking outside the box, but actually living outside the box. Thanks for the video.

    111 days ago

  • mialopez3

    mia lopez says:

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    97 days ago

  • TeofanaART

    TeofanaART from TeofanaART says:

    Thank you for the video ! VERY Inspiring !

    10 days ago