Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexi Hansen
Hi Alexi, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
On an incredibly perfect autumn day in sixth grade, I found myself on a class trip to Devil’s Lake State Park, with than my little point-and-shoot camera and a roll of film. When I later got those photos developed, I was hooked. Photography became one of my great loves—but really, it was just the beginning. That moment sparked a lifelong passion for art in all its forms, each creative endeavor bringing the same rush of joy.
Fast forward to my professional career as a high-needs special education teacher, and I realized that my growing collection of photographs, paintings, and handmade crafts could do more than just bring me joy—they could help support my classroom. For over 20 years, I’ve worked with children and adults with autism, communication disorders, behavioral needs, and other disabilities. The work is deeply rewarding, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges, stress, and financial strain. Art has been my way to navigate both.
In recent years, I’ve taken my passion a step further, launching an online shop and, most recently, diving into the world of art fairs. What started as a personal creative outlet has evolved into something much more—an intersection of art, advocacy, and community.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The biggest obstacle I’ve faced along the way has been my own self-doubt. When I first created my website, I felt silly trying to market my own work. That same imposter syndrome hits even harder at art fairs, where I walk through rows of booths, amazed by the incredible creativity and talent around me. As an artist, putting yourself out there is the hardest part.
Another challenge has been reining in my interests. There are endless ways to create, but never enough time to explore them all. A quote that has always resonated with me is, “I want to be everyone, and I want to do everything. One life is not enough.”
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I dabble in a little bit of everything. Photography was my first passion, but over time, my creative interests have expanded to include watercolor painting, alcohol ink tiles (finished with acrylics and a sealant), beaded sun-catchers, and original art turned into stickers, magnets, and pins. I also create resin and beaded jewelry, ceramics, and have recently begun exploring the art of stained glass.
What sets my work apart is that every piece is truly one of a kind. With alcohol inks, I rarely have a set plan—the colors seem to take on a life of their own, creating something unexpected and beautiful. But my photography remains what I’m most proud of. Each image captures a fleeting moment of beauty, a scene I was lucky enough to witness. Every photo holds a small piece of my heart.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
So many people. I honestly believe that anything I do well in life, I’ve stolen from someone I admire. My family has always been incredibly supportive—when I was little, sitting at the table coloring with one of my brothers, I told him I wanted to be an artist when I grew up. He just looked at me and said, “You’re already an artist. You made art.” That stuck with me.
I also owe so much to the artists I’ve met along the way. I’ve been lucky enough to collect creative friends from all over the world, and their talent blows my mind. And of course, my partner, Phil. He’s always up for coming to art shows, patiently waiting on hikes while I try to get the perfect shot of a tiny bee, and somehow tolerates the endless trails of art supplies around the house. An absolute saint.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.fernwehart.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/_fernweh_art
