Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Chew.
Hi Ashley, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I was born in Chicago, IL and raised in both Chicago and Indianapolis, IN. I currently live and work in New York, NY. New York City is interesting because you can feel like you lived a dozen lives in such a short time. Previously, I worked as a Fashion Model and a bit of writing, I was still creating but I did not really see a space for my work, or so I thought. I have always been an Artist, but growing up I rarely saw representation in The Arts, so I was unsure how far I could actually go. The more I educated myself, along with progression in Arts spaces I decided to pursue creating full-time. I have been very fortunate to have had incredible clients, collaborations, exhibitions, and more. The thing about finding out if there is “space” for you is simply creating your own.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I believe in myself and my work. I have a very supportive audience. I really put in the work and enjoy the process. That’s a blessing. That is the smooth part. I really feel for creatives now, especially with Social Media, algorithms, and popularity. Sharing your work can be a numbers game, and unfortunately some people will only support you, including the gatekeepers – if they feel it is popular to support you or a quick money grab. Art is not content; it is a tangible object. Share it as much as you can and as often as you like. Your people will find you. Those people will follow through for you.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My work depicts Women of Color at rest and relaxation. I use a range of bright acrylics to style towering up-dos, elongated braids, and ethereal afros. The figures nest upon lush forests, serene coastlines, and draped in comforting garments. The last section to paint is the hair to ensure that it is the brightest and most contrasted. I myself have a towering blonde afro, so representation in hair is most important in my work. I am very strategic at what colors evoke certain moods and emotions. Aside from painting, I work in Fashion Illustration, murals, dyes, hand-lettering, digital, and recently I am growing interested in sculpture.
How do you define success?
Years ago, I would have measured success by external recognition, numbers, and accomplishments. Now, I view success as simply creating, which can feel brave to create in the times we are living in. As a person that has accomplished many personal goals, I found myself too focused on the next goal; you end up in a cycle of wanting more. People will also demand more from you and will have intense expectations for you. Although this can be out of love, caring about my work is more important to me. I am now navigating with ease. I still have personal goals, but I want my work to continue to show that I care about it deeply. I don’t want to get disconnected from my mission.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ashleybchew.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ash_chew/
Image Credits
All images courtesy of Ashley Chew
