Photo Credit: Kelsey TenHarmsel
If you happen to notice our gorgeous Colorado scenery and logo on everything from water bottles, backpacks, and laptops to the car bumper in front of you, you’re not alone. For years Coloradans have loved to represent and why wouldn’t they – we live in one of the most beautiful states out there. But, if you’ve ever been curious as to who creates those pretty stickers, and where to get some of the coolest ones around, we can hook you up! Meet Kelsey TenHarmsel, graphic artist and #1 Colorado fan:
“When I was in first grade, my teacher asked me to draw a picture of my home, so I drew a little house on a lake with mountains behind it – that was my idea of home.” That may not seem out of the ordinary to some, but Kelsey lived in lower Michigan -nowhere near the mountains. She had never even seen them! It was an image and a dream that has come to life since moving to Colorado in 2008. Today, she lives with her husband, dog and two kitties in a little Tudor house very similar to the one she drew way back when, and yes,… it is surrounded by mountains.
Photo Credit: Kelsey TenHarmsel
And now, she makes Colorado stickers, hats, t-shirts, patches, etc. with those beautiful Colorado images for anyone requesting them. Like so many entrepreneurs, her business began during COVID. She had graduated from Colorado Mountain College and was working at a little shop that sold Hydroflask water bottles amongst many other outdoorsy products. When some local kids, who frequented the shop, began requested fun stickers for their bottles, Kelsey came up with the idea to fill that need.
Photo Credit: Kelsey TenHarmsel
So Kelsey began by drawing landscapes on her travels, many that you see on her products today. Kelsey says she enjoys drawing places that she’s explored that have meaning to her using vibrant color pallets and line detail. Her work is primarily in digital art these days drawing in either procreate or illustrator but she says she has ‘always preferred the feel of drawing with a pen on paper’.
Kelsey’s artwork and products can be found on Etsy at Cleo Bell Designs, in a few local stores around the roaring fork valley, and pop-ups at local markets. Check her out, order something cool, and REPRESENT Colorado!
If you know of a local business woman you would like us to spotlight and support, please write to us at:
editor@northmetrowoman.com
