Hanlie started painting while studying for a degree in Communications at the University of the Free State, originally she started by selling her paintings very cheaply from the boot of her car at the Bloemfontein Art Market but her Art has become so popular that she frequently exhibits her work via upmarket galleries or her own art gallery in Rustenburg.

Her work is influenced by early memories of the Karoo (She grew up in) Aliwal North - sheep; Small Karoo Houses, Church Steeples; Dust; Earth are frequent images in her paintings.

Words, phrases, verses are often added in her paintings. Her work is sometimes described as 'naive surreal' or expressionistic.

Hanlie is a very productive and busy artist; She has helped to illustrate children's books. She has also taken her images and created fridge magnets, coasters and table mats to market her work.

Her works sells well in South Africa, Namibia and the UK.