Tracy Pesche has been a “maker kid” since childhood, crafting potholders and painted rocks. She inherited her creative passion from her parents, who’ve owned a fine art gallery since 1976. She recalls selling her handmade creations there: “I

found it very exciting and satisfying that someone would want to buy what I made with my own two hands.” She later earned a degree from the School of the Art Institute in Chicago. Tracy keeps her work uncomplicated and whimsical. She says, “Life

is not easy or simple, but for a minute, my art reminds us that loving and kindness can be.” Even in her spare time, Tracy is always thinking about what she can make next. With two sons that motivate her, she says, “My 6-year-old is very interes

ted in creating, so it’s fun to see what comes out of him ... I often try and channel my own inner child when I’m creating a new piece.” Producing a variety of work in her Tra Art Studio in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, Tracy hopes her art will “ma