Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelsey Champagne-Smith.
Hi kelsey, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
With a background in science and education, I’ve always been drawn to making complex ideas feel approachable. Over time, my work evolved into playful, nature-inspired designs that blend curiosity, humor, and thoughtful storytelling—often through bird puns, illustrations, and lighthearted takes on the natural world. That combination became the foundation of Acorn & Artisan. Acorn & Artisan is a growing creative brand offering art prints and giftable goods designed to create small moments of joy in everyday life.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Alongside teaching myself to draw digitally on my iPad, I also taught myself metalsmithing in 2021 and spent several years primarily focused on jewelry. While that phase taught me a lot about running a creative business, it was also physically demanding and pulled me away from the part of the work that energized me most: designing and illustrating.
In 2025, I made the difficult but necessary decision to rebrand and refocus Acorn & Artisan. That shift allowed me to center my time and energy on my design and drawing work, which is the place where my creativity, background, and joy intersect most naturally. Letting go of what no longer fit wasn’t easy, but it was essential in building a business that feels sustainable, aligned, and true to who I am now.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My work centers on playful, nature-inspired illustration rooted in humor and curiosity. I specialize in creating designs that make people laugh and pause often through animals, especially birds, paired with clever wordplay or unexpected personality. Many of my most recognizable pieces lean into that intersection of wit and warmth.
I’m best known for designs like Fowl Language, Let’s Get This Bread featuring ducks, and my Cowgirl Chicken—pieces that have become customer favorites because they don’t take themselves too seriously while still being thoughtfully illustrated. Humor is the entry point, but connection is the goal.
What I’m most proud of is building a body of work that feels inclusive and approachable. My background in science influences how I think about storytelling and education, and I love translating those ideas into art that feels accessible rather than intimidating. Through blending humor, intention, and relatability my art sparks a smile first, then invites curiosity and conversation.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I love most about Georgetown is how easy it is to connect with like-minded people. As a transplant, that sense of openness has meant everything—there’s a genuine enthusiasm here for creativity, art, and music, and a strong culture of supporting small businesses and local makers. It feels like a place where curiosity is encouraged and creative ideas are met with excitement rather than skepticism, which has been incredibly energizing both personally and professionally.
What I like least is probably just the growing pains that come with being in a fast-growing city, i.e. things like traffic. But even that feels like part of a larger story of a city that’s evolving, and overall, the sense of community and creative momentum far outweighs the challenges.
Pricing:
- Stickers: $5 – $7
- Art prints: $15+, depending upon size
- Mugs: $28
- Enamel Pins & Keychains: $12 – $16
- Tea Towels & Bandanas: $28
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.acornandartisan.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acornandartisan
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/acornandartisan
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/AcornandArtisan
