Today we’d like to introduce you to Brandi Hofer

Hi Brandi, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?

Hello! I’m Brandi Hofer, and I wear many creative hats—artist, muralist, author, podcaster, and educator. My passion lies in making meaningful connections through art. It’s not easy, but it sure is fun, I work at it every single day. I always pinch myself, in awe that I get to have all these as my job, so friggin’ cool!

I’m thrilled to be a collected Canadian artist, with my work exhibited internationally and across North America. One of the highlights of my career was showcasing my pieces in the vibrant art scene of NYC.

In 2019, I pivoted from a traditional art practice of “creating and selling artwork” because I was totally burnt out and needed a change creating over 130 originals in just a year, it wasn’t sustainable. I was frustrated at this mindset that in order to be considered a serious artist you could only do this one thing! So, I shook things up! I wrote a book, started a podcast, started working more in my community and founded an art academy, and began creating massive murals. I fixed my money mindset and became passionate about empowering other creatives to do the same. I believe in becoming multifaceted and diversified because everyone’s unique journey is their own.

One of my proudest achievements is completing my largest project to date, a monumental 3082 sq/ft mural titled “Choose Love and Join Hands in Truth and Reconciliation.” This collaboration with my community holds great personal significance.

In 2021, I took my commitment to creative education further by founding an Art Academy in partnership with my local public school district. I also established the “Colour Me Happy” online community, book, and podcast, aiming to spread creative joy far and wide. I’m excited to elevate my educational workshops by building an eco-friendly artist residency and arts centre right here in Canada.

My artwork has been featured on national television and in international publications, including the prestigious Saatchi Gallery. I’m grateful for the support of collectors like Jillian Harris, Jenna Kutcher, Sarah Baeumler, Andrew Salgado, Jann Arden, and Sarah Nicole Landry (thebirdspapaya).

My studio, nestled in the tranquil Canadian prairies, is where my children and I create together. It’s not just a space but a sanctuary for artistic expression and shared moments of creativity. Let’s create something extraordinary together!

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

I don’t think anyone experiences a completely smooth road or transition, but I do believe that everything that happens to us in our lives is preparing us for the next extraordinary moment or challenge. I have had jobs that I didn’t exactly want to have, but I always took something away, preparing for the next step. Like all humans experiencing loss and frustrations. But everything changed when I decided to stop being a victim, knowing that was capable, resilient and able to do anything it was I set my mind to. After that, the challenge is deciding what it is you want! The journey is full of bumps, detours, and unexpected turns, but that’s what makes it so unique and exciting. Each struggle has taught me valuable lessons and shaped me into the artist and person I am today. We have to enjoy this sweet ride for what it is—a wild, wonderful adventure full of bumps, bruises growth and discovery!

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?

I am an artist, muralist, educator, mother, and author with 20 years of experience. I have practiced and studied art extensively, traveling through Europe and North America to teach thousands of students the art of portraiture. My journey combines creativity and mindfulness, inspiring others to connect with their artistic passions and see their everyday ordinary as extraordinary through their creativity.

My most viral thing I have done is a Portrait Class. I spoke about burnout earlier in this interview it was mostly from custom portrait orders. Long story short I decided that I could empower other people and creatives to make what I was making with a method I had honed for over a decade. And it just took off, people LOVE it! It definitely is what I am getting known for. I am hoping to travel some more now that my children are no longer toddlers. I would love to team up with retreat spots and host some Portrait Class workshops.

I also really love impacting community through mural installation and the profound transformative effect they can have. They are very physically involved and I crave that, with every project there is a very rewarding finish!

My book, podcast and free community “Colour Me Happy” had been such a great way to connect to other creatives and them to one another.

All of these streams of business are what make every day interesting and fun! They all fill my cup all the way full and sometimes overflowing!

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?

Family, love, self-care, and independence—all for different reasons, yet they coexist and are all important to me. Each one has to fit into one ordinary, extraordinary day.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://brandihofer.ca
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandihoferstudios/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrandiLHofer/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrandiHoferStudios

Image Credits
photos by Taylor Olivia Photography