Local Denton artist and retired teacher Leslee Kregel creates handcrafted hats in her backyard art studio using secondhand materials, both for individuals experiencing homelessness and for sale.
BACKYARD TO STUDIO- A Creative Journey Denton, Texas April 29, 2024 After taking time to play with her dog, Leslie Kregel, heads towards her creative haven, her art studio. Her partner, Shannon Drawe helped build the space for her, as he wanted to ensure she had a place she loved to create art in. By Alaina Jones
A HEART IN HAND- Leslie Kregel tilts her hands to the camera on April 29, 2024, revealing a small red heart sewn on the tag. She explained, she recycles thrifted materials by creating new hats, giving them a second life. Each hat is distinguished by a small heart sewn into the seam, a signature of her work, and she sells them online while also gifting them to those in need. By Alaina Jones
STORAGE WITH A TWIST- Leslie Kregel creatively stores her art supplies in glass jars, securely screwed onto the underside of the stairs on April 29, 2024, keeping her workspace organized and accessible. This inventive solution maximizes space but adds a unique, functional touch to her studio Kregel explained. By Alaina Jones
THE BEAUTY OF TOGETHERNESS- Leslie Kregel stares into her partner, Shannon Drawe’s eyes on April 29, 2024 after a long day of preparing for her next art show. They speak of the successes from the day and find joy and laughter within one another. “Sometimes it is moments like these that matter the most," Kregel said. By Alaina Jones
