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Hi, I’m Kelly! 🎨⁠
⁠
An American illustrator & designer for creative explorers and purposeful brands who believe in cultivating a love for people & places through creative work. I want every illustration to feel like a morning abroad.⁠
⁠
In a nutshell:⁠
🏔️ i started illustrating when the world shut down in 2020 and started Kelly Wallace Creative in 2022! ⁠
🏔️ i love coffee, the outdoors, cooking & photography⁠
🏔️ my work is for art directors, founders, and creative explorers- to tell the stories that matter⁠
🏔️ ways we can collaborate: commissions, brandwork, prints & products, digital guides!⁠
🏔️ i've loved working on all types of projects from clean water intiative dioramas with charity:water to commissioned Chinese dumpling recipe cards for friends & family ⁠
⁠
Where to next? ⇸⁠
⁠
If you’re looking for a creative partner to bring your next idea to life,⁠
DM me to explore next steps!

Hi, I’m Kelly! 🎨⁠
⁠
An American illustrator & designer for creative explorers and purposeful brands who believe in cultivating a love for people & places through creative work. I want every illustration to feel like a morning abroad.⁠
⁠
In a nutshell:⁠
🏔️ i started illustrating when the world shut down in 2020 and started Kelly Wallace Creative in 2022! ⁠
🏔️ i love coffee, the outdoors, cooking & photography⁠
🏔️ my work is for art directors, founders, and creative explorers- to tell the stories that matter⁠
🏔️ ways we can collaborate: commissions, brandwork, prints & products, digital guides!⁠
🏔️ i've loved working on all types of projects from clean water intiative dioramas with charity:water to commissioned Chinese dumpling recipe cards for friends & family ⁠
⁠
Where to next? ⇸⁠
⁠
If you’re looking for a creative partner to bring your next idea to life,⁠
DM me to explore next steps!

The 6 cities that made the newest travel collection were carefully chosen- thinking of you! ⁠
⁠
In addition to wanting to represent a variety of cultures and places, I asked you which cities you'd like to see featured. Then, I collected the most-requested places and rounded out the list with some of the most-traveled places in hopes of capturing your favorites. ⁠
⁠
I also added in one of my favorite cities where many of you have also lived or visited, that's where I met my husband and lived for 7 years (swipe to see!)⁠
⁠
Which cities would you like to see in a future collection? Comment below to make sure yours makes the next edit!🏔️

The 6 cities that made the newest travel collection were carefully chosen- thinking of you! ⁠
⁠
In addition to wanting to represent a variety of cultures and places, I asked you which cities you'd like to see featured. Then, I collected the most-requested places and rounded out the list with some of the most-traveled places in hopes of capturing your favorites. ⁠
⁠
I also added in one of my favorite cities where many of you have also lived or visited, that's where I met my husband and lived for 7 years (swipe to see!)⁠
⁠
Which cities would you like to see in a future collection? Comment below to make sure yours makes the next edit!🏔️

What if you could bring your favorite places in the world home with you?⁠
⁠
Hand-illustrated by a fellow creative explorer, these illustrations were designed as visual anchors to keep the places you love alive in your space every day. ⁠
⁠
These travel prints and more are available now to shop on my site!

What if you could bring your favorite places in the world home with you?⁠
⁠
Hand-illustrated by a fellow creative explorer, these illustrations were designed as visual anchors to keep the places you love alive in your space every day. ⁠
⁠
These travel prints and more are available now to shop on my site!

There are few things as special as waking up somewhere new, when the day is untouched & the world hasn’t asked anything of you yet.⁠
⁠
It’s the feeling I chase every time I start a piece- using life-giving colors that feel like adventure, negative space allows the illustration to breathe, and textures that feel imperfect. Inviting newness & exploration. ⁠
⁠
What's your favorite place you've spent travel mornings? Let me know below! ︾⁠
⁠
To see more of the prints and projects where I try to capture the feeling of mornings abroad, explore the site in my bio!

There are few things as special as waking up somewhere new, when the day is untouched & the world hasn’t asked anything of you yet.⁠
⁠
It�’s the feeling I chase every time I start a piece- using life-giving colors that feel like adventure, negative space allows the illustration to breathe, and textures that feel imperfect. Inviting newness & exploration. ⁠
⁠
What's your favorite place you've spent travel mornings? Let me know below! ︾⁠
⁠
To see more of the prints and projects where I try to capture the feeling of mornings abroad, explore the site in my bio!

After a long hiatus from illustrating travel prints, feeling like nothing was coming together, a little illustration I never intended to do anything with gave me creative direction for this new collection.

Then, the inspiration just kept coming. Creativity is like that sometimes!

These pieces- Rome, Cape Town, Antalya, Charlotte, Paris, and Bangkok- were designed to bring your favorite places home with you.

🏔️ If you want to support a local artist creating pieces that feel like a morning abroad, head to my site to shop prints of your favorite cities!

After a long hiatus from illustrating travel prints, feeling like nothing was coming together, a little illustration I never intended to do anything with gave me creative direction for this new collection.

Then, the inspiration just kept coming. Creativity is like that sometimes!

These pieces- Rome, Cape Town, Antalya, Charlotte, Paris, and Bangkok- were designed to bring your favorite places home with you.

🏔️ If you want to support a local artist creating pieces that feel like a morning abroad, head to my site to shop prints of your favorite cities!

Your home is the canvas that tells your story, even if you're just passing through. As someone who has moved almost every year since I was 18, I've learned that these "in-between" chapters are the pieces that make up our lives.⁠
⁠
Every temporary place holds its own purpose in your life. It doesn't have to take much to feel like you- small touches that reflect who you are & where you came from. Whether it's hanging a photo (shoutout to my husband for handing every photo in all our homes!), snuggling under a favorite 10-year-old blanket, or putting up a piece of art that reminds you of your favorite place. These things ground me in seasons that feel unfamiliar.⁠
⁠
What part of your story do you want to reflect in your space? My challenge to you is to make every season feel like home🏔️⁠
⁠
↟ Commission a print of your favorite places and make your current space- wherever that may be- feel more like you! Commissions available until April 1st before pausing until summer🌿

Your home is the canvas that tells your story, even if you're just passing through. As someone who has moved almost every year since I was 18, I've learned that these "in-between" chapters are the pieces that make up our lives.⁠
⁠
Every temporary place holds its own purpose in your life. It doesn't have to take much to feel like you- small touches that reflect who you are & where you came from. Whether it's hanging a photo (shoutout to my husband for handing every photo in all our homes!), snuggling under a favorite 10-year-old blanket, or putting up a piece of art that reminds you of your favorite place. These things ground me in seasons that feel unfamiliar.⁠
⁠
What part of your story do you want to reflect in your space? My challenge to you is to make every season feel like home🏔️⁠
⁠
↟ Commission a print of your favorite places and make your current space- wherever that may be- feel more like you! Commissions available until April 1st before pausing until summer🌿

I've yet to set foot in Cape Town, but this city- described as "island energy mixed with bustling city life" in travel blogs- caught my attention. With one of my good friends calling it home, it's snagged a spot on my travel bucket list!⁠
⁠
This print began pulling inspo from a photo that drew me in with its colorful row of homes & palm trees. I knew I had to include the view of Table Mountain towering over the city🏔️⁠
⁠
Starting with a loose sketch, I tried to let the illustration be imperfect (hard for an enneagram 1 like me!) until it took shape. Finally, it made its way into a finished piece designed to bring a piece of Cape Town to your home!⁠
⁠
Is Cape Town on your travel list too? ⁠
⁠
Get lost in memories of your favorite places (or those on your list!) with the new Travel Print Collection. Shop the spring drop for a little trip abroad without leaving your morning coffee behind☕️

I've yet to set foot in Cape Town, but this city- described as "island energy mixed with bustling city life" in travel blogs- caught my attention. With one of my good friends calling it home, it's snagged a spot on my travel bucket list!⁠
⁠
This print began pulling inspo from a photo that drew me in with its colorful row of homes & palm trees. I knew I had to include the view of Table Mountain towering over the city🏔️⁠
⁠
Starting with a loose sketch, I tried to let the illustration be imperfect (hard for an enneagram 1 like me!) until it took shape. Finally, it made its way into a finished piece designed to bring a piece of Cape Town to your home!⁠
⁠
Is Cape Town on your travel list too? ⁠
⁠
Get lost in memories of your favorite places (or those on your list!) with the new Travel Print Collection. Shop the spring drop for a little trip abroad without leaving your morning coffee behind☕️

If the start of the year has you missing:⁠
🌊 the sound of the ocean⁠
🛺 the feeling of another language being spoken around you⁠
🏔️ or waking up in a new place with the day ready to be explored⁠
⁠
This new collection of travel prints is for you. Designed to bring your favorite places home with you, the spring drop of the Rome, Bangkok, Antalya, Charlotte, Paris, and Cape Town prints are a hand-illustrated, refreshing take on waking up abroad. ⁠
⁠
If you want to support a local artist creating pieces that feel like creativity & adventure, head to my site to explore the collection! ⁠
⁠
Don’t see your favorite city? DM me about a commission!

If the start of the year has you missing:⁠
🌊 the sound of the ocean⁠
🛺 the feeling of another language being spoken around you⁠
🏔️ or waking up in a new place with the day ready to be explored⁠
⁠
This new collection of travel prints is for you. Designed to bring your favorite places home with you, the spring drop of the Rome, Bangkok, Antalya, Charlotte, Paris, and Cape Town prints are a hand-illustrated, refreshing take on waking up abroad. ⁠
⁠
If you want to support a local artist creating pieces that feel like creativity & adventure, head to my site to explore the collection! ⁠
⁠
Don’t see your favorite city? DM me about a commission!

Did one of your favorite cities make the list? The new travel collection has arrived for you to bring home, so that your space feels like a morning traveling abroad🌿⁠
⁠
⇸ Swipe through to see which final 6 international cities were chosen and some favorite things from each place. ⁠
⁠
Which one feels the most like you? ⁠
⁠
Head to my bio to explore the shop and bring the world home with you!⁠

Did one of your favorite cities make the list? The new travel collection has arrived for you to bring home, so that your space feels like a morning traveling abroad🌿⁠
⁠
⇸ Swipe through to see which final 6 international cities were chosen and some favorite things from each place. ⁠
⁠
Which one feels the most like you? ⁠
⁠
Head to my bio to explore the shop and bring the world home with you!⁠

The 6 cities for the spring travel print collection have landed!

🌿 Cape Town, South Africa
🌿 Paris, France
🌿 Bangkok, Thailand
🌿 Rome, Italy
🌿 Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
🌿 Antalya, Türkiye

I wanted this collection to feel like a breath of fresh air- a morning traveling abroad. A way to remember places and the stories you created there. All hand-illustrated by a local artist who loves the world and it’s people & places.

Did your favorite city make this drop?

🏔️ Stay tuned for deep dives into the making of the prints & the stories behind them. All prints available now to bring the memories of your adventures home with you at the link in my bio!

The 6 cities for the spring travel print collection have landed!

🌿 Cape Town, South Africa
🌿 Paris, France
🌿 Bangkok, Thailand
🌿 Rome, Italy
🌿 Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
🌿 Antalya, Türkiye

I wanted this collection to feel like a breath of fresh air- a morning traveling abroad. A way to remember places and the stories you created there. All hand-illustrated by a local artist who loves the world and it’s people & places.

Did your favorite city make this drop?

🏔️ Stay tuned for deep dives into the making of the prints & the stories behind them. All prints available now to bring the memories of your adventures home with you at the link in my bio!

Some of my favorite moments are when you reach out with fun & creative ideas. Usually people-centered projects that reflect the beauty of the world!⁠
⁠
I often get asked:⁠
⋒ "Do you only do travel-related work?" Nope! I’m passionate about themes like travel, culture, humanitarian efforts, sustainability, and more.⁠
⋒ "Do you only work with brands?" Not at all! I love collaborating with entrepreneurs and creative kindred spirits on unique commissions and projects.⁠
⁠
Wondering what you need to start? Just bring your idea, a budget, and a timeline🌿 We'll tackle it together from there. ⁠
⁠
Got questions about using illustrations to tell your project's story? Let's chat over virtual coffee ☕ DM me to explore your idea together!

Some of my favorite moments are when you reach out with fun & creative ideas. Usually people-centered projects that reflect the beauty of the world!⁠
⁠
I often get asked:⁠
⋒ "Do you only do travel-related work?" Nope! I’m passionate about themes like travel, culture, humanitarian efforts, sustainability, and more.⁠
⋒ "Do you only work with brands?" Not at all! I love collaborating with entrepreneurs and creative kindred spirits on unique commissions and projects.⁠
⁠
Wondering what you need to start? Just bring your idea, a budget, and a timeline🌿 We'll tackle it together from there. ⁠
⁠
Got questions about using illustrations to tell your project's story? Let's chat over virtual coffee ☕ DM me to explore your idea together!

Not every season feels like the greatest adventure, but exploration can be found in the everyday moments too. Even living overseas, my days often look like dressing my little one, vacuuming familiar patterns, and grocery store trips. But something I'm learning: exploration isn’t just about new mountaintop experiences.⁠
⁠
Maybe it’s about asking better questions as you help your kid into their school clothes, noticing how the afternoon light dances differently while vacuuming, or lingering in the spice aisle and trying a new recipe🥢⁠
⁠
What if creativity can also be born in these everyday tasks? Not just after the work is done, but in the middle of the necessary and important parts of life. Creativity might not change our circumstances, but it can shape how we experience every part of the world around us.⁠
⁠
↟ What’s one small way you’ve explored lately, even without leaving your city? Let me know below!⁠
⁠
And if you’d love more reflections like this alongside fellow creative explorers, the Basecamp & Brew newsletter is always open for you (link in bio)☕️

Not every season feels like the greatest adventure, but exploration can be found in the everyday moments too. Even living overseas, my days often look like dressing my little one, vacuuming familiar patterns, and grocery store trips. But something I'm learning: exploration isn’t just about new mountaintop experiences.⁠
⁠
Maybe it’s about asking better questions as you help your kid into their school clothes, noticing how the afternoon light dances differently while vacuuming, or lingering in the spice aisle and trying a new recipe🥢⁠
⁠
What if creativity can also be born in these everyday tasks? Not just after the work is done, but in the middle of the necessary and important parts of life. Creativity might not change our circumstances, but it can shape how we experience every part of the world around us.⁠
⁠
↟ What’s one small way you’ve explored lately, even without leaving your city? Let me know below!⁠
⁠
And if you’d love more reflections like this alongside fellow creative explorers, the Basecamp & Brew newsletter is always open for you (link in bio)☕️

Something new is coming! After lots of creative exploration, I’ve found a direction for this newest collection of travel prints dropping this spring☀️

🌿 These prints are for fellow creative adventurers who want to capture the feeling of a morning traveling abroad in your home.

Come along the next few weeks as I take you on a deep dive of the process behind illustrating each international city featured in the collection.

If you want to be the first to know about the release, join the newsletter community, Basecamp & Brew (in bio!) for updates⛰️

Something new is coming! After lots of creative exploration, I’ve found a direction for this newest collection of travel prints dropping this spring☀️

🌿 These prints are for fellow creative adventurers who want to capture the feeling of a morning traveling abroad in your home.

Come along the next few weeks as I take you on a deep dive of the process behind illustrating each international city featured in the collection.

If you want to be the first to know about the release, join the newsletter community, Basecamp & Brew (in bio!) for updates⛰️

If the start of the year has you missing places that made you feel alive, this is for you! Here's to remembering your adventures, even without your passport🌿⁠
⁠
⇸ Swipe for a behind-the-scenes glimpse at how this collection- built intentionally for creative explorers like you & me- to remember places that have shaped our stories. Or places that we'd like to!⁠
⁠
An unexpected little doodle actually sparked the creative direction for this collection (see slide 4!). After a year of trying to make something fit, the pieces finally fell into place. Now, I can't wait to show you the 6 prints this spring! 🎉⁠
⁠
Curious to see if your favorite cities made the cut? Reveal coming later this week! Relive your favorite moments from your travels & support a little artist with these hand-drawn pieces designed to feel refreshing & adventury in your everyday places. ⁠
⁠
🏔️ Join the Basecamp & Brew email list (in bio) to be the first to discover the cities featured in this drop. Excited to journey with you!

If the start of the year has you missing places that made you feel alive, this is for you! Here's to remembering your adventures, even without your passport🌿⁠
⁠
⇸ Swipe for a behind-the-scenes glimpse at how this collection- built intentionally for creative explorers like you & me- to remember places that have shaped our stories. Or places that we'd like to!⁠
⁠
An unexpected little doodle actually sparked the creative direction for this collection (see slide 4!). After a year of trying to make something fit, the pieces finally fell into place. Now, I can't wait to show you the 6 prints this spring! 🎉⁠
⁠
Curious to see if your favorite cities made the cut? Reveal coming later this week! Relive your favorite moments from your travels & support a little artist with these hand-drawn pieces designed to feel refreshing & adventury in your everyday places. ⁠
⁠
🏔️ Join the Basecamp & Brew email list (in bio) to be the first to discover the cities featured in this drop. Excited to journey with you!

Last year, I prayed often for creative direction. Lulls throughout the year are guaranteed for me- months that feel uninspired- where I'm not exactly sure where I'm supposed to go with illustration. I thought about giving it up for this busy season of life. ⁠
⁠
But something a friend told me has stuck with me: "you create because you can't not create". I've found that to be true. Even if I stopped one form of creativity, it would have to come out another way. Anyone else?? ⁠
⁠
So I've been really looking forward to January. For whatever reason, Januarys always bring me a refreshed creative energy. This year, I'm so thankful that it's been the same! Already there's lots brewing around here☕️⁠
⁠
Here's a sneak peek into some of my projects underway for 2026:⁠
🏔️ a fresh series of travel prints coming this spring: a refreshed, airy style with new cities suggested by you!⁠
🌿 more connection with my basecamp & brew community ⁠
🌲 adventure-inspired recipe cards so you can have all your favorites in one place when it's time to cook!⁠
☕️ more of an analog feel to all my work⁠
+ lots more in the idea stage!⁠
⁠
As I go back again and again to my word of the year: ritual, I feel much less overwhelmed. Sometimes creative inspiration just takes time- like whatever version my art is taking now just wasn't meant to exist a few months ago. I'm finding joy in carving out early mornings writing, and evenings with a pencil in my hand. ⁠
⁠
I'll be sharing more with my Basecamp & Brew newsletter community (in your inbox today if you've already joined!) as I work through creative ruts, my process as new creative products launch, and the heart behind it all. If you want to be part of the community, head to my bio and add your email to get your welcome series in your inbox today!

Last year, I prayed often for creative direction. Lulls throughout the year are guaranteed for me- months that feel uninspired- where I'm not exactly sure where I'm supposed to go with illustration. I thought about giving it up for this busy season of life. ⁠
⁠
But something a friend told me has stuck with me: "you create because you can't not create". I've found that to be true. Even if I stopped one form of creativity, it would have to come out another way. Anyone else?? ⁠
⁠
So I've been really looking forward to January. For whatever reason, Januarys always bring me a refreshed creative energy. This year, I'm so thankful that it's been the same! Already there's lots brewing around here☕️⁠
⁠
Here's a sneak peek into some of my projects underway for 2026:⁠
🏔️ a fresh series of travel prints coming this spring: a refreshed, airy style with new cities suggested by you!⁠
🌿 more connection with my basecamp & brew community ⁠
🌲 adventure-inspired recipe cards so you can have all your favorites in one place when it's time to cook!⁠
☕️ more of an analog feel to all my work⁠
+ lots more in the idea stage!⁠
⁠
As I go back again and again to my word of the year: ritual, I feel much less overwhelmed. Sometimes creative inspiration just takes time- like whatever version my art is taking now just wasn't meant to exist a few months ago. I'm finding joy in carving out early mornings writing, and evenings with a pencil in my hand. ⁠
⁠
I'll be sharing more with my Basecamp & Brew newsletter community (in your inbox today if you've already joined!) as I work through creative ruts, my process as new creative products launch, and the heart behind it all. If you want to be part of the community, head to my bio and add your email to get your welcome series in your inbox today!

When I set new years intentions by carving out space to dream, I’ve found time & time again that I feel like my most creative (and inspired!) self. I know that resolutions can feel stifling for some people, and intentions help me find a softer way forward. More like guidelines!

Every year, I take a few hours in a coffeeshop (or even better- with friends!) with my annual road map to look back and ahead to reflect, process, and dream. It helps me appreciate the good moments that I brushed past and lean into what the hard moments taught me. I always walk away with- surprise, surprise- more dreams! And also a refreshed since of creativity and adventure.

I hope you’ll find little ways to lean into who you feel called to become over these first few months of the new year.

If you’re looking for a first step, check out the 2026 Traveller’s Road Map by commenting “road map” or exploring the link in my bio🌿

When I set new years intentions by carving out space to dream, I’ve found time & time again that I feel like my most creative (and inspired!) self. I know that resolutions can feel stifling for some people, and intentions help me find a softer way forward. More like guidelines!

Every year, I take a few hours in a coffeeshop (or even better- with friends!) with my annual road map to look back and ahead to reflect, process, and dream. It helps me appreciate the good moments that I brushed past and lean into what the hard moments taught me. I always walk away with- surprise, surprise- more dreams! And also a refreshed since of creativity and adventure.

I hope you’ll find little ways to lean into who you feel called to become over these first few months of the new year.

If you’re looking for a first step, check out the 2026 Traveller’s Road Map by commenting “road map” or exploring the link in my bio🌿

I make art for people who want their homes to feel like a passport. Even to places you've never been! I drew this pattern inspired by one of my top bucket list places to visit - Joshua Tree National Park 🌵⁠ - imagining myself looking out at the desert as the sun rises with coffee in hand. I'll get there someday!⁠
⁠
What national parks are on your bucket list? This park & more are part of my National Parks Stamp Collection travel print- available to shop on my site in my bio!🐪

I make art for people who want their homes to feel like a passport. Even to places you've never been! I drew this pattern inspired by one of my top bucket list places to visit - Joshua Tree National Park 🌵⁠ - imagining myself looking out at the desert as the sun rises with coffee in hand. I'll get there someday!⁠
⁠
What national parks are on your bucket list? This park & more are part of my National Parks Stamp Collection travel print- available to shop on my site in my bio!🐪

2025 was a year of so much learning! I explored making patterns, took some risks on new styles (some I will not be trying again!), and had some fun commissions- all inspired by adventure, connection, global foods, and of course coffee. ⁠
⁠
Some of my favorites from the past year:⁠
⛰️ My first illustration of 2025, Atlas Mornings, inspired by a trip to Morocco⁠
⛰️ "Street Food Around the World" print that made me very hungry and also gave me the travel bug (coming soon to my shop!)⁠
⛰️ Land Rover pattern from my safari collection- one of 3 collections I finished this year while trying to learn surface pattern design⁠
⛰️ One of my favorite commissions- a Chinese dumpling recipe card for friends⁠
⛰️ Joshua Tree pattern inspired by one of the top places on my bucket list to see in the US! ⁠
⛰️ National Park Stamp Collection print - available on my website! ⁠
⛰️ A few more botanic-inspired patterns in lush, earthy colors⁠
⛰️ Coffee bag design and surface illustration⁠
⁠
Looking forward to what's to come in 2026! Will be posting more about intentions for the year and upcoming projects ☕️⁠
⁠
Anything you'd like to see more of this year?!

2025 was a year of so much learning! I explored making patterns, took some risks on new styles (some I will not be trying again!), and had some fun commissions- all inspired by adventure, connection, global foods, and of course coffee. ⁠
⁠
Some of my favorites from the past year:⁠
⛰️ My first illustration of 2025, Atlas Mornings, inspired by a trip to Morocco⁠
⛰️ "Street Food Around the World" print that made me very hungry and also gave me the travel bug (coming soon to my shop!)⁠
⛰️ Land Rover pattern from my safari collection- one of 3 collections I finished this year while trying to learn surface pattern design⁠
⛰️ One of my favorite commissions- a Chinese dumpling recipe card for friends⁠
⛰️ Joshua Tree pattern inspired by one of the top places on my bucket list to see in the US! ⁠
⛰️ National Park Stamp Collection print - available on my website! ⁠
⛰️ A few more botanic-inspired patterns in lush, earthy colors⁠
⛰️ Coffee bag design and surface illustration⁠
⁠
Looking forward to what's to come in 2026! Will be posting more about intentions for the year and upcoming projects ☕️⁠
⁠
Anything you'd like to see more of this year?!

If you're craving more creativity, connection, and adventure in 2026- this is for you ⛰⁠
⁠
This year’s version is fully refreshed from last year, with a look that feels warm and adventury (think: Morocco-inspired). The heart of it is the same: questions that help you slow down, reflect, and dream about what's ahead.⁠
⁠
A sneak peek at what’s inside the 2026 Traveller's Road Map:⁠
🌿 12 intentional questions to look back on your past year⁠
🌿 10 questions to help you lay out your intentions for the year ahead⁠
🌿 A guide to choosing a theme for your road map (with examples!)⁠
🌿 Sample road maps to get you inspired⁠
🌿 A hosting guide for doing road maps with friends (always more fun with friends!)⁠
⁠
My favorite way to do a road map is starting at a coffeeshop with a couple of uninterrupted hours, like the videos here! Then, planning a low-key night with friends to create our road maps on paper together as vision boards we can hang in our homes as visual reminders of what we dreamed of in the new year.⁠
⁠
Get on the waitlist for the road map and take a next step to a more intentional and creative 2026 by commenting "roadmap" or heading to the link in my bio! ⁠

If you're craving more creativity, connection, and adventure in 2026- this is for you ⛰⁠
⁠
This year’s version is fully refreshed from last year, with a look that feels warm and adventury (think: Morocco-inspired). The heart of it is the same: questions that help you slow down, reflect, and dream about what's ahead.⁠
⁠
A sneak peek at what’s inside the 2026 Traveller's Road Map:⁠
🌿 12 intentional questions to look back on your past year⁠
🌿 10 questions to help you lay out your intentions for the year ahead⁠
🌿 A guide to choosing a theme for your road map (with examples!)⁠
🌿 Sample road maps to get you inspired⁠
🌿 A hosting guide for doing road maps with friends (always more fun with friends!)⁠
⁠
My favorite way to do a road map is starting at a coffeeshop with a couple of uninterrupted hours, like the videos here! Then, planning a low-key night with friends to create our road maps on paper together as vision boards we can hang in our homes as visual reminders of what we dreamed of in the new year.⁠
⁠
Get on the waitlist for the road map and take a next step to a more intentional and creative 2026 by commenting "roadmap" or heading to the link in my bio! ⁠

It’s here!🎉 The 2026 Road Map. My go-to ritual for starting the new year that always makes me feel like the most refreshed version of myself: a road map. I take a couple hours at a coffeeshop to process the past year and write through how I want to live differently in the year ahead. A soft, stress-free approach to New Years intentions.

This year, inspired my husband and I’s trip to Morocco a few years ago, the 2026 Traveller’s Road Map is updated with a fresh design and a couple new questions⛰️

Always encouraged by people that are looking for the same things and walking this journey together! Comment “road map” or head to my bio to snag your copy ☕ happy adventuring!

It’s here!🎉 The 2026 Road Map. My go-to ritual for starting the new year that always makes me feel like the most refreshed version of myself: a road map. I take a couple hours at a coffeeshop to process the past year and write through how I want to live differently in the year ahead. A soft, stress-free approach to New Years intentions.

This year, inspired my husband and I’s trip to Morocco a few years ago, the 2026 Traveller’s Road Map is updated with a fresh design and a couple new questions⛰️

Always encouraged by people that are looking for the same things and walking this journey together! Comment “road map” or head to my bio to snag your copy ☕ happy adventuring!

9 years ago, I started gathering with friends once a year- sprawled out on hardwood floors in tiny living rooms to cast vision about what we wanted for the direction of our lives in the next year⛰️⁠
⁠
I got asked for a template for vision boards so many times over the years that, last year, I decided to make a full guide to share. Something that you and I can do to cultivate intentionality in our own lives, and also bring others along for the journey!⁠
⁠
This year's refreshed version of the Traveller's Road Map will be out this month! ⁠
⁠
☕️ Get on the waiting list to grab your copy by commenting "road map" below or heading to the link in my bio ↟⁠

9 years ago, I started gathering with friends once a year- sprawled out on hardwood floors in tiny living rooms to cast vision about what we wanted for the direction of our lives in the next year⛰️⁠
⁠
I got asked for a template for vision boards so many times over the years that, last year, I decided to make a full guide to share. Something that you and I can do to cultivate intentionality in our own lives, and also bring others along for the journey!⁠
⁠
This year's refreshed version of the Traveller's Road Map will be out this month! ⁠
⁠
☕️ Get on the waiting list to grab your copy by commenting "road map" below or heading to the link in my bio ↟⁠

That's a wrap for 2025! It's been a fun year of illustrating- diving deep into trying out patterns, stories, and new prints. ⁠
⁠
Excited for all that's to come this year. ⁠Thanks for being here for the journey! 🏔️

That's a wrap for 2025! It's been a fun year of illustrating- diving deep into trying out patterns, stories, and new prints. ⁠
⁠
Excited for all that's to come this year. ⁠Thanks for being here for the journey! 🏔️

Relaxing mood all week in between Christmas and New Years! Lots of fresh coffee, pilates, thinking through a vision board for the new year and recipe planning appetizers for New Years Day☕️⁠
⁠
Hope you enjoy some rest and creativity this week🌿

Relaxing mood all week in between Christmas and New Years! Lots of fresh coffee, pilates, thinking through a vision board for the new year and recipe planning appetizers for New Years Day☕️⁠
⁠
Hope you enjoy some rest and creativity this week🌿

As someone who's lived in 11 different homes in 10 years, there are no shortages of goodbyes. My recent illustration of a bao cart (last slide) was inspired by a conversation with friends who also lived in Asia- talking about eating fantastic bao in China. ⁠
⁠
It got me thinking about people who know the places we've called home- and how they uniquely know the versions of ourselves we became in certain seasons of "home". ⁠
⁠
If you're like me and have said lots of goodbyes over the years, read on in my newest field journal "The People Who Know the Places We've Called Home" through my site in my bio📚️

As someone who's lived in 11 different homes in 10 years, there are no shortages of goodbyes. My recent illustration of a bao cart (last slide) was inspired by a conversation with friends who also lived in Asia- talking about eating fantastic bao in China. ⁠
⁠
It got me thinking about people who know the places we've called home- and how they uniquely know the versions of ourselves we became in certain seasons of "home". ⁠
⁠
If you're like me and have said lots of goodbyes over the years, read on in my newest field journal "The People Who Know the Places We've Called Home" through my site in my bio📚️

Why is it that a great coffeeshop is the best place in the world for creative inspiration?! ⁠
⁠
Today, I'm using this caffeine and cozy cafe-induced creative energy for:⁠
↟ working towards my writing goals ⁠
↟ language learning⁠
↟ adding more whimsical, abstract elements to my illustrations⁠
↟ improving my architecture drawing skills ⁠
⁠
What's on your list to work on creatively this week?☕️⁠
⁠
I hope you find the space for creativity & adventure today- even if it's in the margins! ⁠

Why is it that a great coffeeshop is the best place in the world for creative inspiration?! ⁠
⁠
Today, I'm using this caffeine and cozy cafe-induced creative energy for:⁠
↟ working towards my writing goals ⁠
↟ language learning⁠
↟ adding more whimsical, abstract elements to my illustrations⁠
↟ improving my architecture drawing skills ⁠
⁠
What's on your list to work on creatively this week?☕️⁠
⁠
I hope you find the space for creativity & adventure today- even if it's in the margins! ⁠

On a January afternoon, coffee in hand on my tiny dorm room bed, I flipped through my copy of Kinfolk and landed on an article about winter. Each line sang the praises of winter. A winter I didn’t know. ⁠
⁠
I'd traded the blizzards of Washington, D.C. for university in a city of palm trees. But far from cold, slushy walks and melancholy skies aching for sunshine, this winter was an invitation. ⁠
⁠
An invitation to slowness. To cozy away from the outside world. A necessary hibernation that our bodies and souls need to rest. A peaceful and intentional gathering with others.⁠
⁠
Each word reintroduced me to a friend I’d outgrown. In my hurry to outrun the dreary, uninspired pining for spring, I’d missed winter in its truer form. Winter who wasn't inconvenient. Who gave me respite from school during blizzards, and resurrected memories of my mom making my hot chocolate after building igloos. Winter who held unrushed conversation, cooked soup from scratch, and wore cabin socks. ⁠
⁠
My soul craved that cozy kinship. Winter’s better story. I craved conversations that felt like a campfire. Home-cooked meals. Rescue from the hustle. A necessary pause- making way for things that wouldn’t exist in sunlit seasons. I shifted my posture to welcome the winter. ⁠
⁠
May we all find little ways to befriend our winters this year.⁠
⁠
-⁠
An excerpt from some writing I'm doing called "Reframing Winter". This cozy girl is how I imagine making the most of winter- soaking up the chilly fresh air outside, equipped with a mug of fresh coffee and a cozy sweater❄️⁠

On a January afternoon, coffee in hand on my tiny dorm room bed, I flipped through my copy of Kinfolk and landed on an article about winter. Each line sang the praises of winter. A winter I didn’t know. ⁠
⁠
I'd traded the blizzards of Washington, D.C. for university in a city of palm trees. But far from cold, slushy walks and melancholy skies aching for sunshine, this winter was an invitation. ⁠
⁠
An invitation to slowness. To cozy away from the outside world. A necessary hibernation that our bodies and souls need to rest. A peaceful and intentional gathering with others.⁠
⁠
Each word reintroduced me to a friend I’d outgrown. In my hurry to outrun the dreary, uninspired pining for spring, I’d missed winter in its truer form. Winter who wasn't inconvenient. Who gave me respite from school during blizzards, and resurrected memories of my mom making my hot chocolate after building igloos. Winter who held unrushed conversation, cooked soup from scratch, and wore cabin socks. ⁠
⁠
My soul craved that cozy kinship. Winter’s better story. I craved conversations that felt like a campfire. Home-cooked meals. Rescue from the hustle. A necessary pause- making way for things that wouldn’t exist in sunlit seasons. I shifted my posture to welcome the winter. ⁠
⁠
May we all find little ways to befriend our winters this year.⁠
⁠
-⁠
An excerpt from some writing I'm doing called "Reframing Winter". This cozy girl is how I imagine making the most of winter- soaking up the chilly fresh air outside, equipped with a mug of fresh coffee and a cozy sweater❄️⁠

Maybe the space we're given from old friendships is an invitation. With every move and busy schedule, there are chances for new things to bloom. ⁠
⁠
Things aren't what they once were, but who knows what they could be?⁠
⁠
--⁠
A little challenge to myself this year to branch out and experiment with different types of illustrations, like stories and patterns🎨

Maybe the space we're given from old friendships is an invitation. With every move and busy schedule, there are chances for new things to bloom. ⁠
⁠
Things aren't what they once were, but who knows what they could be?⁠
⁠
--⁠
A little challenge to myself this year to branch out and experiment with different types of illustrations, like stories and patterns🎨

Just illustrating some whimsical polar bears while watching a Christmas movie to match the holiday spirit🎄 The most wonderful time of the year!

Just illustrating some whimsical polar bears while watching a Christmas movie to match the holiday spirit🎄 The most wonderful time of the year!

In each new city, I pray for even just one kindred spirit. As someone who feels like I’m always leaving, I look for someone with common threads. Someone anchoring, who feels like an old friend even if it’s our first conversation. ⁠
⁠
It’s a different kind of friendship than the people you grew up with. You’ve probably never met their parents or been to their childhood home. You won’t have walked through the awkward stages with them or know who they dated before they got married. You weren’t there when they lost their grandparents or made the big decisions that shaped them into who they are today. ⁠
⁠
But there’s something special about people getting the versions of us that we’ve become. The versions we’ve worked hard for. Certain kindred spirits will meet us on the other sides of our moves, milestones, and losses. We’re not the same people we always were, but with our new friends, we feel uniquely at home in our new skin.⁠
⁠
Just some thoughts today as I challenge myself to write more and pull on themes of places & people into new illustrations this month🎨

In each new city, I pray for even just one kindred spirit. As someone who feels like I’m always leaving, I look for someone with common threads. Someone anchoring, who feels like an old friend even if it’s our first conversation. ⁠
⁠
It’s a different kind of friendship than the people you grew up with. You’ve probably never met their parents or been to their childhood home. You won’t have walked through the awkward stages with them or know who they dated before they got married. You weren’t there when they lost their grandparents or made the big decisions that shaped them into who they are today. ⁠
⁠
But there’s something special about people getting the versions of us that we’ve become. The versions we’ve worked hard for. Certain kindred spirits will meet us on the other sides of our moves, milestones, and losses. We’re not the same people we always were, but with our new friends, we feel uniquely at home in our new skin.⁠
⁠
Just some thoughts today as I challenge myself to write more and pull on themes of places & people into new illustrations this month🎨

Been inspired lately by more pencil-like textures, and playing around with old brushes trying to cultivate some whimsy🍂⁠
⁠
As I challenge myself to write more this year, winter's been on my mind- and the invitation it gives us to find its beauty, rewriting its narrative from cold and slush into brisk air with fresh coffee that gives us an excuse to wear cozy sweaters. ⁠
⁠
I think this illustration will go hand-in-hand with that❄️

Been inspired lately by more pencil-like textures, and playing around with old brushes trying to cultivate some whimsy🍂⁠
⁠
As I challenge myself to write more this year, winter's been on my mind- and the invitation it gives us to find its beauty, rewriting its narrative from cold and slush into brisk air with fresh coffee that gives us an excuse to wear cozy sweaters. ⁠
⁠
I think this illustration will go hand-in-hand with that❄️

Dreamt up this little bao stand illustration while thinking about a conversation with friends who also lived in Asia about the most delicious bao we ate in Chengdu. ⁠
⁠
How strange a thing it is- for people to connect across places and time and be anchored by something as small as a dumpling shop at the foothills of the Himalayas. 🏔️⁠
⁠
It got me thinking about the people who know the places we've called home, and uniquely know the versions of us that formed in those places. ⁠
⁠
The full blog "The People Who Know the Places We've Called Home" that inspired this little bao cart is on my site now. Head to the Field Journals my bio to check it out, and order some bao for lunch if you get hungry!🥟🥢⁠

Dreamt up this little bao stand illustration while thinking about a conversation with friends who also lived in Asia about the most delicious bao we ate in Chengdu. ⁠
⁠
How strange a thing it is- for people to connect across places and time and be anchored by something as small as a dumpling shop at the foothills of the Himalayas. 🏔️⁠
⁠
It got me thinking about the people who know the places we've called home, and uniquely know the versions of us that formed in those places. ⁠
⁠
The full blog "The People Who Know the Places We've Called Home" that inspired this little bao cart is on my site now. Head to the Field Journals my bio to check it out, and order some bao for lunch if you get hungry!🥟🥢⁠

Something about the weather getting cooler always makes me feel more creative this time of year❄️ More hibernating, slowing down, and focusing on things I love like illustrating, writing, and learning languages😊 ⁠
⁠
Getting back on the creative grind, I'm excited to share some illustrations from the last few months! I've been inspired lately by Asia, street foods, people, and coffeeshops. But what's new! ⁠
⁠
Hope you're finding creative inspiration wherever you are today as we lean into the winter months🌲

Something about the weather getting cooler always makes me feel more creative this time of year❄️ More hibernating, slowing down, and focusing on things I love like illustrating, writing, and learning languages😊 ⁠
⁠
Getting back on the creative grind, I'm excited to share some illustrations from the last few months! I've been inspired lately by Asia, street foods, people, and coffeeshops. But what's new! ⁠
⁠
Hope you're finding creative inspiration wherever you are today as we lean into the winter months🌲

One of my favorite ways to experience a culture is through their street food! I collected a few of my favorite spots for street food (and some places that are on my list✈️) and gathered them into one illustration that makes me hungry every time I look at it😋⁠
⁠
Some of my favorite street foods are: mango sticky rice or moo ping (bbq pork with sticky rice) in Thailand, simit or fish sandwiches along the Bosphorus in Istanbul, and bun cha in Vietnam. ⁠
⁠
What are your favorites?!

One of my favorite ways to experience a culture is through their street food! I collected a few of my favorite spots for street food (and some places that are on my list✈️) and gathered them into one illustration that makes me hungry every time I look at it😋⁠
⁠
Some of my favorite street foods are: mango sticky rice or moo ping (bbq pork with sticky rice) in Thailand, simit or fish sandwiches along the Bosphorus in Istanbul, and bun cha in Vietnam. ⁠
⁠
What are your favorites?!

Some play for this rainy Thursday🎈

Some play for this rainy Thursday🎈

stopping to notice the little moments and new joys, like fresh dragon fruit and market friends🥥

swipe through to see the illustration process! trying something new with visual storytelling & posting while it still feels unfinished and imperfect🌿

stopping to notice the little moments and new joys, like fresh dragon fruit and market friends🥥

swipe through to see the illustration process! trying something new with visual storytelling & posting while it still feels unfinished and imperfect🌿

In my little corner of the internet, I wanted to kindle a place where people could stay awhile and explore illustrations, projects, field journals, and even playlists driven by stories of travel, sustainability, and humanitarian efforts. I explored different platforms that could bring this all to life🏔️

I happen to have the chronic problem of not being able to do anything halfway. So, even though websites are not my specialty, I landed on Wix because it’s the only platform that allowed for the flexibility I needed to splash my illustrations all over the page and customize everything exactly how I wanted it.

Head to www.kellywallacecreative.com or through the link in my bio to explore the final result!🌿

#webillustration #wixpartner

In my little corner of the internet, I wanted to kindle a place where people could stay awhile and explore illustrations, projects, field journals, and even playlists driven by stories of travel, sustainability, and humanitarian efforts. I explored different platforms that could bring this all to life🏔️

I happen to have the chronic problem of not being able to do anything halfway. So, even though websites are not my specialty, I landed on Wix because it’s the only platform that allowed for the flexibility I needed to splash my illustrations all over the page and customize everything exactly how I wanted it.

Head to www.kellywallacecreative.com or through the link in my bio to explore the final result!🌿

#webillustration #wixpartner

“Invitation Over Isolation” is a print inspired by the resilience and hope I've seen in conversations with South Sudanese refugees, Pakistani asylum seekers, and Afghan women. It's a simple invitation to bridge the gap and ask the question: what would happen if we were more proximate and curious of our international neighbors?⁠
⁠
→Swipe to the last photo to see some of the original sketch concepts on the theme of the refugee experience that developed into this print.⁠
⁠
Printed on high-quality artwork printed onto archival-certified Hahnemühle Hemp paper, sustainably produced from hemp fiber (60%) and cotton (40%), this print is for the welcomers- who want to choose invitation over isolation. ⁠
⁠
Want to explore the print? Comment "invitation" to get the link directly in your DMs!

“Invitation Over Isolation” is a print inspired by the resilience and hope I've seen in conversations with South Sudanese refugees, Pakistani asylum seekers, and Afghan women. It's a simple invitation to bridge the gap and ask the question: what would happen if we were more proximate and curious of our international neighbors?⁠
⁠
→Swipe to the last photo to see some of the original sketch concepts on the theme of the refugee experience that developed into this print.⁠
⁠
Printed on high-quality artwork printed onto archival-certified Hahnemühle Hemp paper, sustainably produced from hemp fiber (60%) and cotton (40%), this print is for the welcomers- who want to choose invitation over isolation. ⁠
⁠
Want to explore the print? Comment "invitation" to get the link directly in your DMs!

I'm learning that you never really feel like you've "arrived" in a creative practice. You're always growing and shifting. And once you feel confident in one area, there's another to learn! ⁠
⁠
When I started illustrating, I drew a LOT of people. Once I felt comfortable with people, I moved into more simple elements- plants, elephants, land rovers :) ⁠
⁠
Recently, I've been nose to the ground exploring pattern development🙌 But I think next will be the seasons to figure out a style of landscape illustrations. ⁠
⁠
Nature captures my heart- but I'm still working on how I want to illustrate story-driven landscapes. This one is the closest I've found - inspired by the rice terraces of Thailand on a quiet road trip outside the big city. ⁠
⁠
What kind of landscapes would you want to see illustrated? I'm looking for all the inspo! ⬇️

I'm learning that you never really feel like you've "arrived" in a creative practice. You're always growing and shifting. And once you feel confident in one area, there's another to learn! ⁠
⁠
When I started illustrating, I drew a LOT of people. Once I felt comfortable with people, I moved into more simple elements- plants, elephants, land rovers :) ⁠
⁠
Recently, I've been nose to the ground exploring pattern development🙌 But I think next will be the seasons to figure out a style of landscape illustrations. ⁠
⁠
Nature captures my heart- but I'm still working on how I want to illustrate story-driven landscapes. This one is the closest I've found - inspired by the rice terraces of Thailand on a quiet road trip outside the big city. ⁠
⁠
What kind of landscapes would you want to see illustrated? I'm looking for all the inspo! ⬇️

My happy place is a morning traveling abroad. Waking up in a place unexplored, the day untouched, knowing that I’m on the brink of adventure with people I love. Being out of my normal context helps me appreciate the wonder back in everyday life.⁠
⁠
These moments can carry us through the valleys. But what about the in-between? Most of us can’t hop to our mountaintops every time we crave refreshment.⁠
⁠
So, we anchor ourselves with reminders - visual adventures- that transport us, if even for a second, to where we feel alive. Art breathes life into our souls- like we’re in the places we feel whole. Until we are. ⁠
⁠
This is why I create.⁠
⁠
Have an idea you’d like to explore? I’m still accepting projects for 2025, message me to start bringing your story to life!

My happy place is a morning traveling abroad. Waking up in a place unexplored, the day untouched, knowing that I’m on the brink of adventure with people I love. Being out of my normal context helps me appreciate the wonder back in everyday life.⁠
⁠
These moments can carry us through the valleys. But what about the in-between? Most of us can’t hop to our mountaintops every time we crave refreshment.⁠
⁠
So, we anchor ourselves with reminders - visual adventures- that transport us, if even for a second, to where we feel alive. Art breathes life into our souls- like we’re in the places we feel whole. Until we are. ⁠
⁠
This is why I create.⁠
⁠
Have an idea you’d like to explore? I’m still accepting projects for 2025, message me to start bringing your story to life!

Dreaming of Arches National Park today! It's one of the top on my list so I decided to include it as a pattern in my National Park-inspired collection I'm working on. Hope to make it there one day! ⁠
⁠
What national parks are at the top of your list?⛰️ ⁠
⁠
--⁠
⁠
#nationalparkillustration #archesillustration #travelillustrator

Dreaming of Arches National Park today! It's one of the top on my list so I decided to include it as a pattern in my National Park-inspired collection I'm working on. Hope to make it there one day! ⁠
⁠
What national parks are at the top of your list?⛰️ ⁠
⁠
--⁠
⁠
#nationalparkillustration #archesillustration #travelillustrator

The feeling when you finally finish a project you've been working on for years (!!!) Looking forward to sending my newly completed pitch decks to purpose-driven people and brands to explore new collaborations⛰️⁠
⁠
I've had a running list of dream people to connect with for years, and even though I'm an advocate for "done is better than perfect", I only wanted to put a pitch deck in people's hands that I was truly proud of. ⁠
⁠
If you are or know of any purpose-driven people and brands (particularly within the travel, sustainability, or humanitarian sectors) looking to tell their stories in creative ways, shoot me a DM! Let's dream together🎨⁠

The feeling when you finally finish a project you've been working on for years (!!!) Looking forward to sending my newly completed pitch decks to purpose-driven people and brands to explore new collaborations⛰️⁠
⁠
I've had a running list of dream people to connect with for years, and even though I'm an advocate for "done is better than perfect", I only wanted to put a pitch deck in people's hands that I was truly proud of. ⁠
⁠
If you are or know of any purpose-driven people and brands (particularly within the travel, sustainability, or humanitarian sectors) looking to tell their stories in creative ways, shoot me a DM! Let's dream together🎨⁠

Day 3/3 of illustrating the refugee experience.⁠
⁠
Today we’re bringing the sketch to life with color. I want the color story to be diverse- just like the people. I also want this illustration to hold space for the unknown- unsure whether the place they’re going will be really better than what they leave behind. I can’t imagine fleeing my home and community because I see no other option.⁠
⁠
But this story is mostly about hope and connection with others- bright spots that have been true of the refugees I’ve had the privilege of meeting from places like Afghanistan, South Sudan, and Syria. ⁠
⁠
I think the gaps between us close with proximity, curiosity, and empathy. ⁠When strangers become friends. When assumptions break down over cups of coffee. ⁠When we choose invitation over isolation.⁠
⁠
My point of this series is this: I wonder how much would change if even a few of us made it our mission to be more proximate and curious of our international neighbors? ⁠
⁠
What if we helped usher in the hope and community that can be found in their new home?⁠
⁠
This print is now available on the shop so you can hang the reminder in your home⛰️ Comment “invitation” to get the link sent directly to you!

—
#travelillustration #refugeeart #humanitarian #purposedrivenillustration

Day 3/3 of illustrating the refugee experience.⁠
⁠
Today we’re bringing the sketch to life with color. I want the color story to be diverse- just like the people. I also want this illustration to hold space for the unknown- unsure whether the place they’re going will be really better than what they leave behind. I can’t imagine fleeing my home and community because I see no other option.⁠
⁠
But this story is mostly about hope and connection with others- bright spots that have been true of the refugees I’ve had the privilege of meeting from places like Afghanistan, South Sudan, and Syria. ⁠
⁠
I think the gaps between us close with proximity, curiosity, and empathy. ⁠When strangers become friends. When assumptions break down over cups of coffee. ⁠When we choose invitation over isolation.⁠
⁠
My point of this series is this: I wonder how much would change if even a few of us made it our mission to be more proximate and curious of our international neighbors? ⁠
⁠
What if we helped usher in the hope and community that can be found in their new home?⁠
⁠
This print is now available on the shop so you can hang the reminder in your home⛰️ Comment “invitation” to get the link sent directly to you!

—
#travelillustration #refugeeart #humanitarian #purposedrivenillustration

Day 2 of 3: Illustrating the Refugee Experience⁠
⁠
Yesterday, we narrowed in on story and sketched ideas. I wanted to capture the strength and hope of a new season- hope like I’ve seen in my international friends. This particular illustration doesn’t narrow in on the hardships alone but it does leave some space for the unknown.⁠
⁠
I first worked with refugees in 2016 at a local resettlement agency - helping go through mail, giving rides to job interviews, and mostly just being a friend over cups of juice and kids running around.⁠
⁠
Follow to see part 3 tomorrow where I’ll add color to the final illustration!⁠
⁠

Day 2 of 3: Illustrating the Refugee Experience⁠
⁠
Yesterday, we narrowed in on story and sketched ideas. I wanted to capture the strength and hope of a new season- hope like I’ve seen in my international friends. This particular illustration doesn’t narrow in on the hardships alone but it does leave some space for the unknown.⁠
⁠
I first worked with refugees in 2016 at a local resettlement agency - helping go through mail, giving rides to job interviews, and mostly just being a friend over cups of juice and kids running around.⁠
⁠
Follow to see part 3 tomorrow where I’ll add color to the final illustration!⁠
⁠

Day 1/3: Illustrating the Refugee Experience🎨 ⁠
⁠
Before any brushstrokes, I start with the story. Today’s sketches are drawn around the theme of hope—for a new home, for peace, for the strength found in community.⁠
⁠
So many of my international friends have lived through unimaginable hardship, yet they’re resilient and expectant of the future.⁠
⁠
I’m exploring visual ways to tell those stories— starting with lots and lots of rough sketches! ⁠
⁠
Follow along for Part 2 which drops tomorrow as I narrow down the concept and start bringing it to life through a final sketch🌿
⁠
—⁠
⁠
#illustrationprocess #refugeestories #creativejourney #humanitariandesign #refugeevoices

Day 1/3: Illustrating the Refugee Experience🎨 ⁠
⁠
Before any brushstrokes, I start with the story. Today’s sketches are drawn around the theme of hope—for a new home, for peace, for the strength found in community.⁠
⁠
So many of my international friends have lived through unimaginable hardship, yet they’re resilient and expectant of the future.⁠
⁠
I’m exploring visual ways to tell those stories— starting with lots and lots of rough sketches! ⁠
⁠
Follow along for Part 2 which drops tomorrow as I narrow down the concept and start bringing it to life through a final sketch🌿
⁠
—⁠
⁠
#illustrationprocess #refugeestories #creativejourney #humanitariandesign #refugeevoices

New "Forest Echo" pattern - inspired by the Great Smoky Mountain National Park that spans Tennessee and North Carolina (where I called home for many years). With muted autumn tones and the Smoky's signature nature, I'm already wanting to go on a road trip 🛣️⁠
⁠
Pattern available for license soon! ⁠
⁠
Which park would you want to see in a National Parks-inspired collection? Let me know below!

New "Forest Echo" pattern - inspired by the Great Smoky Mountain National Park that spans Tennessee and North Carolina (where I called home for many years). With muted autumn tones and the Smoky's signature nature, I'm already wanting to go on a road trip 🛣️⁠
⁠
Pattern available for license soon! ⁠
⁠
Which park would you want to see in a National Parks-inspired collection? Let me know below!

Illustrating the planet, one brushstroke at a time. This Earth Day, I sketched some things I love about our earth - plants and animals from land, sky, and sea🐨🌿⁠
⁠
From my early days of illustrating, environmental causes have been one of my favorite stories to bring to life! Reading about Earth Day today, I was so encouraged about the milestones made across the world:⁠
⁠
🌍 One billion of us are participating in Earth Day this year—proof that collective creativity can tilt even the biggest systems.⁠
☀️ Solar is now the cheapest electricity in history, Texas leads U.S. wind, and Uruguay runs on 98 % renewables. Maybe I'm an optimist, but tripling global renewable generation by 2030 seems like a dream within reach.⁠
🌱 Clean energy slashes pollution, cuts medical costs, and lifts communities still below the “modern energy minimum.” Energy equity for everyone.⁠
🎨 From installers on rooftops to illustrators like me, 14 million new green jobs are on the horizon (!!)⁠
⁠
→ Swipe to see the video process of creating this illustration. Let's keep loving our planet better!⁠
⁠
⁠
#EarthDay2025 #ecoillustration #cleanenergy #ourplanetweek

Illustrating the planet, one brushstroke at a time. This Earth Day, I sketched some things I love about our earth - plants and animals from land, sky, and sea🐨🌿⁠
⁠
From my early days of illustrating, environmental causes have been one of my favorite stories to bring to life! Reading about Earth Day today, I was so encouraged about the milestones made across the world:⁠
⁠
🌍 One billion of us are participating in Earth Day this year—proof that collective creativity can tilt even the biggest systems.⁠
☀️ Solar is now the cheapest electricity in history, Texas leads U.S. wind, and Uruguay runs on 98 % renewables. Maybe I'm an optimist, but tripling global renewable generation by 2030 seems like a dream within reach.⁠
🌱 Clean energy slashes pollution, cuts medical costs, and lifts communities still below the “modern energy minimum.” Energy equity for everyone.⁠
🎨 From installers on rooftops to illustrators like me, 14 million new green jobs are on the horizon (!!)⁠
⁠
→ Swipe to see the video process of creating this illustration. Let's keep loving our planet better!⁠
⁠
⁠
#EarthDay2025 #ecoillustration #cleanenergy #ourplanetweek

Let’s create something that matters. Whether it’s eco-travel, humanitarian storytelling, or personal memories, I’m here for it ⛰️⁠
⁠
Your story matters- and as an illustrator, my work is to bring it to life in a way that resonates. ⁠
⁠
If you leave our time together refreshed saying, “That was easier than expected!” and are proud to show your illustrations to people? Mission accomplished. ⁠
⁠
Got a project idea in mind? DM me to see if we can bring it to life! 🌿⁠

Let’s create something that matters. Whether it’s eco-travel, humanitarian storytelling, or personal memories, I’m here for it ⛰️⁠
⁠
Your story matters- and as an illustrator, my work is to bring it to life in a way that resonates. ⁠
⁠
If you leave our time together refreshed saying, “That was easier than expected!” and are proud to show your illustrations to people? Mission accomplished. ⁠
⁠
Got a project idea in mind? DM me to see if we can bring it to life! 🌿⁠

Strange fact: I only spend about 10% of my freelance work time illustrating. I’m a chronic learner, if that’s a thing. I enjoy the behind-the-scenes work of planning the heartbeat of the creative work just as much as making it come to life! 🎨⁠
⁠
From learning the logistics of building portfolios, improving at storytelling, and how to create cohesive collections, to working on the ethos of my illustrations. Things like: ⁠
- What values do I want to show through every illustration, post, and page? ⁠
- How do I want people to feel when they come across my work?⁠
- How can I bring a more human feel to a digital space?⁠
⁠
Between colors, word choices, field journals, and even contracts, I always ask myself:

Does this make me want to be more purposeful, adventurous, and creative?

To live more deeply into community, explore and hope?
⁠
If so, my mission is complete. ⁠
⁠
This week I updated my website (kellywallacecreative.com) with @dakotachasityphotography beautifully edited and creative photos and I love how she captured the same vision.⁠
⁠
So, I hope you find some inspiration here! Check out the new site in my bio to explore services, field journals, travel prints, my studio playlist, and more ⛰️

Strange fact: I only spend about 10% of my freelance work time illustrating. I’m a chronic learner, if that’s a thing. I enjoy the behind-the-scenes work of planning the heartbeat of the creative work just as much as making it come to life! 🎨⁠
⁠
From learning the logistics of building portfolios, improving at storytelling, and how to create cohesive collections, to working on the ethos of my illustrations. Things like: ⁠
- What values do I want to show through every illustration, post, and page? ⁠
- How do I want people to feel when they come across my work?⁠
- How can I bring a more human feel to a digital space?⁠
⁠
Between colors, word choices, field journals, and even contracts, I always ask myself:

Does this make me want to be more purposeful, adventurous, and creative?

To live more deeply into community, explore and hope?
⁠
If so, my mission is complete. ⁠
⁠
This week I updated my website (kellywallacecreative.com) with @dakotachasityphotography beautifully edited and creative photos and I love how she captured the same vision.⁠
⁠
So, I hope you find some inspiration here! Check out the new site in my bio to explore services, field journals, travel prints, my studio playlist, and more ⛰️

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