What inspires you and your designs?

Everything, honestly. Even what some would call ordinary tends to incite some sort of emotion within. I’m fueled by interactions with people, travel, architecture, nature (especially spring!), language, style and music. I tend to draw from textures, shapes and colors in the world around me. 

What is your favorite piece?

Right now, I’d have to say “Release.” It’s simple, yet layered and textured, and I love the way the various bold hues interact on canvas.

What is your favorite cocktail?

I love a good melon martini, but right now I’m digging The Day That I Die, a fresh libation made with Riverboat Rye, buckwheat honey, lemon, ginger and roasted Georgia pecan, from the Pinewood Tippling Room in Decatur.

How do you balance personal life and work?

Those lines are often blurred, but I don’t mind because I love what I do. I’ve learned to stick to a set schedule (this week I’m experimenting with getting up at 6:30 to squeeze in more!), yet that it’s important to step away from the canvas from time to time to connect with others and recharge. 

Dream commission?

This is a little out there, but I would love the challenge of translating a fashion designer’s creations into art. Paired pieces for the stylish art lover?

Your favorite host / hostess gift to give?

Usually a bottle of vino (I know, pretty boring), but I recently crafted my own wine glass tags, so I think I’d like to start including a package of those to accompany the bottle.

Who is your style icon?

Alexa Chung always seems to pull off the laid-back look that I strive for, yet I also adore the subtle femininity of Kate Bosworth, Sienna Miller and Rachel Bilson’s styles.

What are you reading?

I admit I don’t have much time to do this, but I am currently in the middle of Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know by Alexandra Horowitz, a cognitive scientist. It’s provides fascinating insight into how dogs perceive the world. I wanted to dive into Dixie’s mind.

What are you listening to?

My playlist is always growing, but right now, the new Let’s be Still by The Head and the Heart, Reflektor by Arcade Fire, Heroine by Lorde, Atlas by Real Estate, and my art studio regulars, Ryan Adams, Glen Hansard, Sigur Ros and Radiohead.

What are your favorite blogs / publications?

I wish I had more opportunities to sit down and read a blog or mag (especially with a Starbucks!), but my go-tos are Domino,  Elle Decor,  Lucky,

Emily Henderson, Design*Sponge, Apartment Therapy, A Beautiful Mess — the list goes on.

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Here are a few of my favorites from Ashley’s work.  Loving the black contrast with the color.