KAHRI ADVENTURES

This past holiday season, I took on one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my career: selling my artwork simultaneously at both the Union Square Holiday Market and the Herald Square Holiday Market in New York City—two iconic outdoor markets created and produced by Urbanspace.

Running two outdoor holiday markets at the same time is not for the faint of heart. It meant long days, early mornings, late nights, and learning to pace myself while giving each customer the same care and attention. Union Square and Herald Square are two of the most iconic holiday markets in the city, each with its own rhythm, energy, and crowd—and being part of both was an incredible opportunity.

Throughout the season, I met local New Yorkers who make these markets part of their annual tradition, as well as tourists from around the world experiencing NYC during the holidays. Some visitors were searching for meaningful gifts to take home, others stumbled upon my booth unexpectedly and connected with a piece in a quiet, personal way. Knowing my artwork traveled home with people from so many different places made the experience even more special.

Of course, selling at outdoor holiday markets in New York City comes with its own set of challenges. There were freezing temperatures, snowy days, numb fingers, and hours spent bundled up behind the booth. There were moments when the cold felt relentless—but the warmth of human connection always cut through it. Conversations with customers, kind words, laughter, and the excitement of someone finding the perfect piece made every cold day worth it.

Braving the elements became part of the story. The snow-dusted stalls, twinkling lights, and bustling sidewalks created a backdrop that felt undeniably magical. Despite the exhaustion, there was a deep sense of gratitude in being able to show up day after day, sharing my work in the middle of one of the most vibrant cities in the world.

Selling at both the Union Square and Herald Square Holiday Markets at the same time pushed me creatively, physically, and emotionally—but it also reminded me why I do what I do. Art has a way of connecting people, even on the coldest days, and this season was a powerful reminder of that.

To everyone who stopped by my booths—whether you’re a local New Yorker or a visitor taking a piece of NYC home with you—thank you. Your support, curiosity, and encouragement made this unforgettable holiday season possible.

Being chosen to be part of the Grand Central Holiday Fair was an incredible honor—one that still feels surreal. Set inside one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks, the fair brings together a curated group of artists and makers during the most magical time of the year. To be included among them was both humbling and deeply meaningful.

Throughout the holiday season, I had the opportunity to share my artwork with customers from New York City and from all over the world. Grand Central Terminal is a true crossroads—locals passing through on their daily commute, holiday shoppers exploring the city, and international visitors experiencing NYC for the first time. Each day brought new conversations, stories, and connections, all centered around art.

Seeing people discover my work in such a historic setting was unforgettable. Many guests were drawn in while on their way to catch a train, only to pause, explore, and leave with a piece of original art or a print to take home. Others intentionally returned with friends or family, sharing why a particular piece resonated with them. Knowing my artwork is now living in homes across the country—and across the globe—is something I’ll always cherish.

The energy of the Grand Central Holiday Fair is unlike any other. Surrounded by the grandeur of the terminal, the festive buzz of the season, and a community of talented creatives, the experience felt both exhilarating and grounding. It was a reminder of why I create: to connect, to tell stories visually, and to make something that people carry with them long after the moment has passed.

I’m incredibly grateful to the organizers of the Grand Central Holiday Fair for selecting me, and to every person who stopped by my booth—whether you became a collector, shared kind words, or simply took a moment to look. Your support made this experience truly special.

Being part of the Grand Central Holiday Fair wasn’t just a milestone in my career; it was a celebration of art, place, and human connection during the most meaningful season of the year. I’m so thankful to have been part of it, and I look forward to what’s next.

There’s something truly special about creating art in a space where fashion, history, and personal style converge—and The Vault by Sita 1910 Trunk Show at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel was exactly that.

Set within the timeless elegance of the hotel, the event brought together luxury knitwear, denim, discerning clientele, and a celebration of craftsmanship. I had the pleasure of joining The Vault by Sita 1910 for an intimate live illustration experience, offering guests custom artwork created in real time.

Throughout the trunk show, I illustrated guests live on the iPad, capturing their likeness and personal style with expressive, fashion-forward line work. Watching each illustration come to life became part of the experience itself—guests gathered, shared reactions, and connected over the artistry happening right in front of them. Each illustration was printed to create a one-of-a-kind keepsake, blending technology with the timeless charm of hand-drawn art.

In addition to personalized portraits, I created custom illustrations on canvas totes from Citizens of Humanity and AGOLDE. These elevated everyday essentials transformed into wearable works of art, with each tote uniquely illustrated for its owner. The combination of premium denim brands and bespoke artwork added a meaningful, personal layer to the shopping experience—luxury made intimate.

The atmosphere of the Beverly Hills Hotel provided the perfect backdrop: palm-lined views, classic interiors, and an effortless sense of old-Hollywood glamour. Paired with The Vault by Sita 1910’s expertly curated selection, the event felt both exclusive and inviting—an ideal setting for live art and meaningful customer interaction.

Live illustration events like this are about more than customization; they create moments. They invite guests to slow down, engage, and leave with something that tells a story. Whether it’s a digital portrait or a hand-illustrated tote, each piece becomes a memory of where they were, how they felt, and the experience they shared.  I also created custom invitations, save the dates, and bag charms that were given in gift bags to clients.

I’m incredibly grateful to The Vault by Sita 1910 for the opportunity to be part of such a thoughtfully curated trunk show, and to everyone who stopped by to be illustrated. Events like these continue to remind me why I love bringing art into fashion spaces—where individuality, creativity, and connection take center stage.

If you’re interested in live illustration for your next event, trunk show, or brand activation, I’d love to create something memorable together.

One of the most exciting parts of my work is collaborating with creative visionaries across fashion, beauty, and entertainment. When makeup artist, TV personality, and author Jay Manuel launched his makeup collection, I had the incredible honor of creating a custom illustration and doll to celebrate the event.

Jay has always been known for his impeccable style, artistic vision, and striking silver hair—making him the perfect muse. I began the project with a fashion illustration that captured his sleek, polished look. The drawing highlighted his signature tailored suit and bold, confident energy, which perfectly mirrors the sophistication of his makeup line.

Bringing the illustration into 3D form, I designed a custom KAHRI doll of Jay Manuel. Printed with eco-friendly inks on cotton/linen fabric and handmade in NYC, the doll was created with meticulous detail—from his silver hair to his sharp ensemble—making it instantly recognizable.

The doll and illustration became a unique centerpiece at Jay’s makeup launch event, adding a playful yet stylish touch that celebrated his artistry in a fresh new way. Guests loved seeing him reimagined as a doll, and it sparked lots of smiles and conversations throughout the night.  The dolls were given to guests in the swag bags.

This collaboration was such a joy because it celebrated not just beauty and fashion, but also individuality and creativity—the very things Jay’s brand embodies. 

Initially, I was asked to create custom a custom illustration and doll of Jay Manuel and his friend Iman, and David Miskin.  Then I was asked to be a part of his makeup launch event.

I love when my art connects with groundbreaking projects like this one, and I can’t wait to continue creating custom illustrations and dolls that bring personalities and brands to life.

When it comes to merging art, fashion, and music, few things excite me more than creating custom pieces for incredible performers. One of my favorite projects to date was designing a custom illustration and doll for the amazing singer-songwriter Sia to celebrate her tour.  She's been one of my top singers to listen to for many years, way before she gained mainstream fame, so when her manager called me wanting to collaborate, I nearly peed my pants.

Sia’s bold, imaginative style and signature look—complete with her iconic two-toned wig and oversized bows—offered the perfect inspiration. I began with a detailed fashion illustration that captured her larger-than-life presence on stage while still reflecting the whimsical, playful edge that defines her artistry. The sketch highlighted her dramatic bow, sleek outfit, and unmistakable silhouette, which instantly communicates “Sia” without even needing to see her eyes.  This custom look was based off her SNL performance.  I also created dolls of her Grammy's look as well.

From there, the illustration came to life as a handmade KAHRI doll. Just like all my dolls, this piece was digitally printed with eco-friendly inks on cotton/linen fabric, sewn with love in NYC, and finished with my signature touch. The Sia doll was both a tribute to her iconic style and a one-of-a-kind keepsake created especially for her tour.

What made this project extra special was knowing the doll would travel with Sia and her team, becoming part of the colorful world she creates for her fans. It’s always inspiring to see how art can cross over into music and performance, and this collaboration was the perfect example of that.

Designing for Sia reminded me why I love what I do—taking iconic women and moments from culture and transforming them into fashion illustrations and dolls that can be collected, displayed, and cherished.

Stay tuned—there are always more custom collaborations to come, and I can’t wait to share the next story from behind the seams.

The KAHRI Pop Up Shop in NoHo in December was so much fun!  It was great to meet so many customers in person!  

It was fun working with other woman-owned businesses at Little Market NYC.  Women supporting women is the best!

I can't wait till my next pop up!

I've been wanting to go to Italy for a long time, so I finally made it happen this year for my birthday!  I went to Rome, Florence, and Venice.  I ate so much pizza, pasta, and gelato!  It was a great birthday trip, except when I was robbed in Rome!  Yep, I was sitting in front of the Colosseum and someone snuck behind me and took my purse (which included my passport).  So through lots of tears, I had to spend hours waiting in front of the police station and on the phone to fix that problem.  I had no money and I had to go to the US Embassy to get an emergency passport.  Such a hassle, but luckily I wasn't alone, so I had help with everything. 

Anyways, here are some highlights of my trip!

First stop was Rome and the Colosseum!  It was cool and super old (obviously).  Little Donatella Doll liked it too.

Then I went to the Vatican Museum and saw the Sistine Chapel.  My favorite thing I saw in Italy was the Vatican Museum.  It is INCREDIBLE!  The amount of detail and artistry especially in the ceilings is amazing!  Little Da Vinci doll was impressed too. Unfortunately a lot of my photos weren't uploaded to the cloud before my phone was stolen.

After a delay due to having to get an emergency passport and changing trains, I finally made it to Florence!  I got to see the statue of David, which is pretty cool.  I obviously had to bring Little David Doll to meet Big David.  

On my actual birthday I went to the Uffizi Gallery and took Little Venus Doll to see The Birth of Venus.  It was a nice museum.  I think Florence was my favorite city.  It's easy to get around and super pretty.  The Duomo is spectacular!  The outside is so intricate and beautiful.

Next stop was Venice.  I took a limo boat at night around the canals.  Then had a post birthday dinner with gondola gelato banana split.  Gelato is so good, I'm obsessed.  

Venice is a beautiful maze.  I definitely got lost, especially since my phone was stolen so I didn't have gps.  I saw all the sights and enjoyed the nice weather. Then took a boat to the airport and came back to NYC to sort out all my problems related to getting robbed.  That part was not fun, but Italy was still great and definitely very memorable!  Ciao Bella!

I set up a booth at NY Now at Javits Center in August 2022.  It was the second time exhibiting there and the first time since covid.  I have to say the people are more friendly there and the location was great.  Can't wait till the next tradeshow! Check out my booth!  NY Now is the Gift Show for wholesale buyers only.  I'll be exhibiting again in February!

I love flowers so I had to check out the new L.E.A.F. Flower show in the Meatpacking district in NYC.  Of course I brought a couple dolls friends along.  It's super packed and they had some fun floral vendors there.

I took a field trip to visit the beautiful blooming roses at the Rockefeller Rose Garden at the New York Botanical Garden. I did some floral sketches on the iPad while I was there. Little Georgia came along so see the flowers too.