Today we’d like to introduce you to Hannah Helton.
Hi Hannah, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
From elementary school through high school, I always got comments on my handwriting. “It looks like you typed it,” my friends would commonly say. I would strongly disagree that it was “perfect”, but I sure had a lot of fun trying to perfect it. I also enjoyed finding new fonts to attempt to replicate. My grandmother loved crafting and was always encouraging me in my creative pursuits. I would make little bound books, drawings, or random creations that dazzled her no matter what. It never occurred to me to pursue handwritten art more seriously until a handful of years ago when I got married. I browsed all of the beautiful calligraphy pieces that people were creating for weddings and I thought I could do that! The more I became aware of calligraphy and lettering, the more I wanted to learn. Lettering is an art that requires lots of repetitive practice.
I’m thankful for all of the family and friends that have supported me in the process by commissioning pieces from me. I’m sure not all of my pieces have been great, and they’ve been with me through those growing pains. Much like my grandmother, my interests are all over the place. One minute I love dip pen calligraphy, chalkboards, watercolors, and then the next, I love digital lettering on the iPad. A couple of years ago my grandmother passed away, and she left behind a trove of crafting treasures. I discovered her calligraphy supplies and remnants from the classes she took back in the 90’s. This woman LOVED trying new things. Her trove also included lots of yarn, which inspired me to try out weaving and fiber arts. Even if people don’t personally enjoy my art, I hope to just inspire people to try new things. Even if you’re not great at it. There are so many ways to express ourselves and so many different tools and implements in which to do it.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
The internet, especially Instagram, has been a great resource to connect to the lettering community and it was where I found a wealth of information and inspiration in my early stages. On the other hand, it has also been where I’ve sunk to my lowest lows of self-comparison. Spend a few minutes scrolling on a bad day, and suddenly you feel very inept and incapable. I mean, some people out there are ACTUALLY artists! I guess you could call it imposter syndrome. Sometimes I’m so idealistic that I don’t take the time to focus on what’s in front of me. I’m so thankful for all of the family, friends, and clients that have supported me by commissioning work. It’s been a struggle to break through that “family/friend” bubble and reach new people. The new people I have reached haven’t always been the most gracious. A few instances made me realize that I should create a contract with clients and put value into myself and my work. To progress, I really do have to realize my worth. It may not be Van Gogh, but it is worth something. I also keep up with a 9-5 that I’ve been super grateful to have, especially during the pandemic. The problem is that it kind of zaps my energy, and I don’t feel like picking up the brush or pencil at the end of the day. I think what most of these struggles have taught me is that I HAVE to keep just doing it. I have to remember that it’s worth it and I owe it myself and my happiness to just keep being a doer. Do it, do it.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m primarily a hand-letterer doing modern calligraphy. I’ve done various things, from hand-addressing invitations, painting canvases, lettering wedding or event chalkboards, and creating digital artwork. Although I don’t do it too often, I love chalkboards. It’s just fun to start out with a blank blackboard and see it transform. They are the most “active” pieces because they get propped up at events, and they actually help people. They tell them where to go, what to do, et cetera. I love seeing them styled with a wedding or party decor. It makes me so happy. I think what sets me apart is my absolute love for color. Colors alter our moods dramatically, and we have been given such a vast spectrum to choose from. Why only choose a few? Why take everything so seriously? I’m not afraid of color and I’m not afraid to lean into playfulness and nostalgia. Words are powerful in themselves, but throw in some mood-altering colors, we’ve added another dimension.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
Well, for one, my grandmother, who always supported my creative ventures. Also my parents. They’re both creative and something of artists themselves. They’ve always supported me and have provided everything they could to keep me going. They cheer me on and have shamelessly framed my artwork (that my critical eye would rather re-do than have to see every time I go to their house but… oh well). My siblings are all artists in their own rights and have never knocked me for trying. I’ve had many friends commission me for work and have sent new clients my way. When I decided to share my creative pursuits more openly with my friends, they were all-in to support me in any way they could. And I know they will continue to do so, should I finally decide to get my act together. And last but certainly not least, my husband. Who can’t even read my cursive but will never stop encouraging me to move forward.
Contact Info:
- Email: Freehannd@gmail.com
- Instagram: @freehannd
Image Credits
Miranda Stombaugh
