Wood & Lens: The Creative Journey of Melissa and Andre Kristensen Smith

In the quaint town of Ariss, Ontario, the Kristensen & Smith studio stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of artistic passion and craftsmanship. The studio is a creative haven where the worlds of photographic art and reclaimed wood design intertwine seamlessly.

The journey of Melissa and Andre Kristensen Smith began with a shared vision deeply rooted in their personal histories. Melissa’s passion for photography was inspired by her mother, who used the camera as a tool to capture not just moments, but the essence of feelings and moods. Her photos were more than mere snapshots; they were emotional artifacts. Andre, on the other hand, was inspired by the tactile beauty of wood. His love for woodworking transformed into intricate designs that ranged from elegant wood purses to functional art pieces.

Their artistic paths came together when they decided to blend their talents into a unified creative endeavor. Their goal was simple yet profound: to work together from home, allowing them to spend more time with their family while pursuing their individual passions. Thus, Kristensen & Smith was born, starting with Melissa’s photography printed on reclaimed wood and expanding to include Andre’s distinctive wood designs.

One of Melissa’s proudest creations is a grand photographic piece depicting the iconic Gooderham Flat Iron building in Toronto. Measuring 8 feet by 4 feet, this artwork embodies her vision of blending urban landscapes with natural textures, making it a centerpiece for any reception area or retail space. Andre’s latest venture, however, involves integrating Melissa’s photography into his meticulously crafted wood totes. Each tote features a unique image, limited to just ten pieces per design, making every bag a one-of-a-kind blend of visual art and sustainable fashion.

Their journey hasn’t been without its challenges. For Melissa, balancing the joy of creation with the pragmatic needs of running a business has been a delicate act. The art of creating and the business of art are two distinct realms, and finding harmony between them has been a continuous learning process. They’ve learned the importance of recognizing the right venues for their work and the value of their creations, recognizing that exposure alone doesn’t pay the bills.

Their work aims to inspire appreciation for the beauty in both the urban and natural worlds. By using reclaimed wood, they promote a more sustainable lifestyle, while Melissa’s photographic pieces soften the harsh edges of cityscapes, bringing a calming presence to any space.

As small business owners and artists, Melissa and Andre cherish the balance between creativity and commerce. They dream of expanding their horizons with a combined home, studio, and retail space in a location such as Elora or Creemore. This vision represents not just a physical space but a fusion of their artistic and business aspirations.

To aspiring artists and photographers, Melissa shares this advice: “Don’t get hung up on technology. The camera is merely a tool; it’s the artist who brings the vision to life. Embrace your unique perspective and find your niche.”

The Kristensen & Smith studio is more than just a place of business; it’s a manifestation of a shared dream and creative collaboration. Melissa and Andre’s journey is a compelling story of how two passionate artists merged their talents to craft not just art, but a meaningful lifestyle that celebrates beauty, sustainability, and family.

To support their work, visit their website.

You can also find them on Instagram.