Hazel was here is inspired by my grandmother, Hazel. Or “Nanna Cake” as she was known to us. Hazel was a wedding cake maker and an all-round crafter. She was the type of nanna who would send a single serve birthday cake in the mail. We’re talking from one side of Australia to the other. Yep, she was next level.
Hazel was here is all about creating playful illustrations for all ages to add interest to your home and life. It is an homage to the baker, the crafter, and storyteller in us all.
About the brand
Hazel with my cousin.
In the background, Nanna’s well thumbed The Golden Wattle Cookery Book (1975) and her handmade doily.
I started Hazel was here as a creative outlet alongside my job in research and busy family life with three kids, a husband, and too many pets. I realised I needed something for myself, and drawing, a childhood passion, seemed perfect. However, I have always struggled to stick with drawing without a clear purpose. What do I do with all my creations? There are only so many walls and cupboards in my house.
When my husband and I turned 40, a stressful year at work left me burnt out. During a family holiday to celebrate our birthdays, I found joy in doodling patterns and hiding characters for my kids to find. This re-ignited my passion.
My work focuses on transforming fleeting, often humorous, domestic moments into vibrant digital illustrations. I aim to infuse everyday scenes with a sense of playful nostalgia, using rich colour palettes and expressive characters to create art that is both spirited and deeply relatable. My core creative vision is to celebrate the small, universal joys that define connection and home life, turning the mundane into the memorable.
Let’s be friends.
Kindly,
Lisa
About the artist
My 40th birthday, just a few days before it all started.
Products
Services
Hazel was here is a digital art business turning small moments into colourful and fun illustrations. My designs are featured on stationary, art prints, home decor, wallpaper and fabric.
You can purchase items featuring my designs through my Etsy and Spoonflower shops.
Contact me about art licensing and custom illustrations.
Contact us
Do you want to work together?
Do you have a small moment you want to turn into a fun illustration?
Drop me a line below to tell me what you’re thinking or email me directly at info@hazelwashere.com
I’d love to here from you!
Kindly,
Lisa