Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Hancock.
Hi Ashley, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
I like to believe that I have been a mover & groover of Earth ever since I came out of the womb! Truly though, losing my mother at the age of 6, my father knew I needed an outlet to release my emotions and tried to place me in many things like: karate, boxing, softball, cheer, and then he signed me up for my very first dance class and I have been dancing ever since. Money was not an easy thing, and he saw how much dance was helping me and worked so hard to allow me to grow in this art. Fast forward through years of being a competitive dancer, obtaining knowledge of all styles from across the world, I then became a choreographer for dance teams and up-and-coming artists, as well curating my own work. In my early 20s, I started incorporating flow props into my daily practice as a way to work out since I never enjoyed going to the gym. I started off with daytime props and then invested in some LED props to flow with, yet I would soon find out that nothing would make me feel as powerful as when I am dancing with fire. The first time I lit up a prop (palm torches), I immediately felt like a god/goddess bending the fire and tapping into magick I never felt before. This has grown my depth of goals and passions as I love to entertain but also love to guide others into becoming one with the fire, as well as picking up a fire prop and learning the science of working with such a potent element. Through hard work, connections, and chosen opportunities, I have become an entertainer for Insomniac Entertainers and have proudly completed 8 events with this amazing company in just one year. I am now a growing creative director and will keep on working towards all I desire to accomplish in this lifetime. Storytelling and connecting with others fulfills me so wholeheartedly.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The challenge for me of being an entrepreneur/entertainer is definitely the competition, especially living in LA. Truly, it’s more focused on the imposter syndrome and me being absorbed in others knowing I can do the same if better. I tend to have always felt like the “weirdo/outcast” so believing in myself heals that wound. I don’t appear the most feminine, so getting certain gigs/roles as well would tear down my self-esteem as I always wanted to feel sexy in my own skin and get a chance to show my sexy to the world in a sacred way, without force or phoniness. Real & raw is how eye live and Lava will never change that plus, pressure builds diamonds, baby!
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a creative director/visual storyteller/ entertainer/ fire dancer // fire breather as well as a sacred guide for those who want to live a life more embodied. I am most proud of my authenticity as well as my patience and love for others. My energy is magmatizing as I like to call it. Lava can be eruptive, or Lava can be the slow-sensual ooze, it is up to Lava how they express. My humility and vibrant aura sets me apart from others. I see my audience and love to make eye contact and make everyone in the room feel seen. I am currently focused on cultivating community by doing what I love and making art with other beautiful creatures of earth.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Apart from being a fire dancer, I am also an astrologist, a singer, model, metalsmith, sound healer, and reiki practitioner I’ve also worked in the animal field for over 8 years and have a deep connection for wildlife. I have no type of support from my family other than my dear grandmother. I remind myself everyday that I am proud of myself and I tell people all the time: may you not worry about leading by example; simply live by example.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Grant Palmer Photography
Mister Poe Photography
Gabriela Thoth Photography
Josh Mossembekker Photography
