Today we’d like to introduce you to Hannah Larson.
Hannah, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My name is Hannah, and my journey as an artist and entrepreneur began during the unprecedented times of the pandemic. I was unable to work or go out since I have an autoimmune disease, along with other disabilities. As the world retreated into isolation, I sought solace in my creative pursuits, finding comfort in various types of art. Inspired by the upcoming pride month, I decided to craft LGBTQ+-inspired jewelry out of perler beads. I am a queer artist, so making pride-inspired art has been a big part of my journey! What began as a simple hobby soon caught the attention of others, and before I knew it, people were asking if they could purchase my colorful creations.
Driven by the unexpected demand for my perler bead jewelry, I realized I had stumbled upon an opportunity to turn my passion into something more. With the proceeds I earned, I eagerly invested in fabrics and materials, taking my love for artistry to a whole new level. I have always had a dream—to bring my plushy designs to life. Fueled by the success of my jewelry and the growing support of my customers, I finally had the means to turn my dream into reality. As I introduced my plushies to the world, their soft, huggable presence brought smiles to faces of young and old. Each plushy exuded the love, childlike wonder, and playful spirit that had always been at the core of my creations. And with every sale, my dream of sharing joy and comfort with others came true.
One of my main goals for my business is to bring people comfort, so I designed the cutest and softest blankets. In my quest to blend comfort and inclusivity, I designed a line of subtle pride dinosaur sweaters and shirts. I recognized the need for individuals to find solace in cozy garments without necessarily revealing their identities, so these creations serve as a comforting haven for all. This allows people to wear these items with a sense of comfort and reassurance, knowing that they can embrace their true selves in their own time and on their own terms. By crafting these pieces, I hope to provide a source of warmth and acceptance, offering a safe space for individuals to express their inner selves.
Now, with a thriving business, I have the incredible opportunity to give back to the community. It is a privilege to be able to support, and uplift causes that are close to my heart. Through my success, I can contribute to creating positive change, raising awareness, and making a difference in the lives of others. Giving back has become an integral part of my journey, allowing me to express gratitude and share the love and support that inspired me in the first place.
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?
The journey of building my business and community has been filled with challenges that have tested my resilience. Navigating the complexities of communicating with manufacturers, protecting my artwork from theft, and facing hate comments have been some of the struggles I have encountered along the way. These obstacles have taught me the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and self-belief. Despite the difficulties, I have remained steadfast in my commitment to my craft and my community, finding strength in the support of those who appreciate and value my work. It is through these challenges that I have grown, learned valuable lessons, and emerged even stronger, determined to continue creating and making a positive impact.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
What sets me apart as an artist and what I am most known for is not only my creativity but also my unique journey as a disabled and trans individual. In the fall of 2022, after enduring ten years of misery and experiencing severe health issues that limited my mobility and resulted in multiple disabilities. Since receiving proper diagnosis, I have very slowly started to feel better and regain parts of my life, but I still have a very long road ahead. Anything that I start to question myself, I remember how much I have been able to accomplish, regardless of my disabilities. As a trans person, I understand the importance of representation and how it can positively impact others. Many individuals have shared with me that my art and my openness about my journey have helped them feel comfortable in their own identities. This feedback is incredibly meaningful to me because it reaffirms that my work goes beyond just creating art—it has the power to inspire and empower others.
Sharing my personal story and being vulnerable about my experiences has created a safe space for others to embrace and express themselves. By being authentic and unapologetic in my art, I have become a source of hope and validation for those who may be struggling with their own identities. It’s an honor to make a difference in people’s lives and advocate for trans rights and representation.
I firmly believe that art has the ability to foster understanding and acceptance, and I am committed to using my platform to create a world where everyone can feel seen, heard, and loved. By continuing to share my journey and create art that brings people comfort, I hope to make a positive impact and build a more colorful and inclusive society.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Social media has allowed me to find and build a community filled with the most wonderful and supportive individuals. Through various platforms, I have connected with artists and creators I have admired and been inspired by for a long time. It is exciting and heart-warming to slowly become friends with these talented individuals and watch each other grow. The sense of community fostered by social media has been a source of inspiration, motivation, and friendship. I am grateful for the opportunities social media has provided and look forward to continuing to build meaningful connections within this vibrant community.
Pricing:
- Subtle pride dinosaur shirt- $28
- Subtle pride dinosaur sweater- $36
- Plushy- $38
- Dinosaur blanket- $40
Contact Info:
- Website: https://chaoticcreations-1688.myshopify.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mychaoticcreations/
- Other: tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mychaoticcreations?lang=en
