Artwork and Illustrations for the Child in You

sHandke ART began as a venue to sell my artwork and whimsical drawings. While living in a small apartment in Boston, I began creating so many black and white line drawings on leftover papers that they quickly began to pile up, so I decided to post a few for sale. They sold, so I was encouraged to keep creating and to quit hoarding.

I thoroughly enjoy processes when it comes to creating, and I think it's great when something has a story. So most of the original drawings I create are on recycled or reclaimed paper using black ink. The permanence of ink helps me to become more innovative and create something even when there are so-called mistakes. Sometimes the paper has markings on it that others left behind before I even begin the drawings. Yes. I pick up others' trash to create art.

I am an artist who enjoys customizing fashion items. I first began working with Toms shoes the second year that they launched their One Day Without Shoes. I love the concept of their company. They are called Toms, because they are "shoes for tomorrow" and a company that believes in giving to others. That's why I paint on their shoes! I have been found at their Style Your Sole events in this area. More recently, I’ve been working on customizing my kids’ clothing and shoes. Look for new items to appear occasionally that are related to this.

After I began establishing my shop, I decided to teach myself to screen print. I began by using freezer paper, and creating stencils, but I quickly discovered that it would be much simpler to learn to use a silkscreen. In the past few years, I have created a "studio" in our unfinished basement where I can print on tees, totes, and paper. This has become a fun place for me to escape when I need a minute or two to myself. Oh yes. Most importantly, I neglected to mention that I am a Mom! I have two fabulous boys who are a amazing source of inspiration.

Whenever I spend a day outside playing or even inside creating with the boys, I discover something new for myself and am inspired to keep on drawing and painting. Their room is a place where I love to hang out, because I created a fun and colorful space where they can play (or rest). Reading books, drawing with chalk, painting with paints, drawing with markers, creating books together, or piecing together Legos and puzzles has become a great way to entertain the boys and encourage my creativity.

Nonetheless, I draw a lot of inspiration from nature and the world that surrounds me. It's a happy place to be, and I hope to share that with you when you purchase something from my shop.