Inspired Hands, Community Canvas
By Michelle Allen
Michelle Allen is a community storyteller dedicated to preserving the history and charm of Hesperia. Follow along at www.echoesofthewillow.com for more inspiring local stories.
Nestled in the heart of Fremont, Renae Wallace has been quietly enriching Hesperia’s creative spirit—one thoughtful brushstroke at a time. As the hands and heart behind Two Inspired Hands, Renae has transformed murals, storefronts, and gathering spaces into visual love letters to small-town resilience, childhood wonder, and shared joy.
🎨 A Life Shaped by Art
“I’ve had a pencil or crayon in my hand for as long as I can remember,” Renae says. Gifted with an innate artistic eye, she followed that spark to Central Michigan University and later brought it home to Fremont, where she and her husband raised their family. With the birth of their third child came a turning point—and a leap of faith into a full-time creative career. “A few years later, Two Inspired Hands became my business name,” she reflects. “A way to honor the God-given gift that continues to guide me.”
💪 The Blessing and Balance of a Small Business
Renae’s approach to business is as organic as her artwork: grounded, gracious, and rooted in relationship. “I’ve never advertised,” she shares, “yet phone calls keep coming in.” While running a microbusiness comes with its hurdles—weather-worn murals, tricky surfaces, and tight deadlines—she’s found even more blessings. “My art and my business are really one in the same.”
🌿 Why Public Art Matters
To Renae, public art is more than decoration—it’s identity, investment, and pride. “When a community gives of itself—whether by helping paint, planning, or just showing up—it becomes theirs.” Her interactive mural at Vida Weaver Park, titled A Walk in the Park, reflects that spirit perfectly. “I wanted it to be joyful, especially for kids. I love when art evokes a smile or laughter.”
🧩 Puzzle Pieces and Partnerships
Whether designing transportable murals that fit together like puzzle pieces or crafting a custom storefront window, Renae starts every project with listening. “I ask questions, sketch ideas, and collaborate until it feels just right—for the client and the community.”
💛 The Heart of Hesperia
From hand-painted welcome signs to spontaneous mugs of hot chocolate during cold painting days, Hesperia’s warmth has never been lost on Renee. “This kind of support means the world to me.” Her favorite reward? Seeing passersby stop, linger, and smile.
🌼 Wisdom for Aspiring Creatives
For those dreaming of making art or building something of their own, Renae offers this: “Stay true to what inspires you. Always do your best. Be honest and don’t give up. A good reputation goes a very long way—especially in a small town.”
🎯 What’s Next
Renae’s excited to continue taking on commissions—and maybe one day, build a portfolio of deeply personal pieces. “I look forward to creating work that speaks to me,” she says.
🎨 Quotes from Renae’s favorite artists that beautifully echo her philosophy:
“All artists are willing to suffer for their work. Why are so few prepared to learn to draw?” — Andrew Wyeth
“The sun will not rise or set without my notice and thanks.” — Winslow Homer
🙏 A Final Reflection
“I’m so very grateful to the people of Hesperia and the surrounding areas who have supported my small business and others like it. We are all part of a beautiful mosaic—each of us contributing our gifts to uplift and care for this place we call home.”
✉️ Connect with Renae Wallace & Two Inspired Hands
Whether you’re interested in commissioning artwork, supporting local talent, or simply saying hello, Renae would love to hear from you:
📬 Email: RenaeWallace1@hotmail.com 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TwoInspiredHands
Follow along to see her latest projects, works in progress, and the artful stories still unfolding across Hesperia.
🔗 Follow more inspiring community stories at http://www.echoesofthewillow.com
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If you love supporting small businesses with big dreams, follow my Spotlight Series where I celebrate the entrepreneurs who are shaping the heart of Hesperia.
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