Artist Spotlight Series: Ashley Longshore
I recently had the pleasure of an interview with Ashley Longshore, a global pop artist with a range of celebrity collectors and corporate/fashion collaborations. She is as cool and as real as they come. Ashley is unapologetic with her candid answers and admittedly loves to swear as much as I do. Her love and dedication to her craft is awe inspiring. This straight shooter extraordinaire is one to know.
I am going to have to plan a NOLA trip to hang with this lovely lady soon. I will have to work around her busy 5 month a year travel schedule. (JEALOUS!)
New Orleans, Louisiana
What is your training?
Self Taught. My father is an owner of an ad agency and I have the sales gene. I cannot and never go a day without painting. The business side comes naturally for me. Love the combination of personality and technology in this art world of today. I believe you should create from your soul.
I have been painting for 20 years.
What inspires you and your designs?
I am inspired by anything from an image in a magazine to a saying or a phrase by Matt Lauer in the morning. Inspiration comes to me in a magical way. These are “godly moments.” It appears in my head and triggers a collection. It is my job to paint every idea I have…
A thought from writing letters to my Mother. I fill all my brain space with art and inspiration.
What is your favorite piece?
Ashley also recently introduced Artgasm. Artgasm is not only a platform for young collectors but it is also meant to reach her existing collectors and clients that cannot get enough of the “World of Ashley Longshore”
How has the your area influenced your work?
Montgomery influenced my work by being from a small southern town made me rebellious. I was different and didn’t want to be a trophy wife. I am drawn to powerful women as seen with my work.
What is your favorite restaurant in NOLA?
Michael (my partner) is a great cook, love to eat in my own kitchen. But Galatoire’s for a long lunch is the best. I recently had one there for 9 hours.
What is your favorite cocktail?
Ketel one martini with a blue cheese stuffed olive.
How do you balance personal life and work?
I am very good at keeping blinders on like a racehorse in the Derby. I keep my eye on the prize. Time management is really important. Validation comes from spending time with those who really matter- family and Michael. Energy comes back to be in a positive way so I keep putting it out there.
Dream trip?
I can say for Ashley she lives a dream trip!!!! This year alone she has hit all the best spots painting along the way…
Travel 5 months a year. Live it. Anguilla, Africa, Maui, Amalfi coast. Travel is my job… it keeps me inspired. I like to put myself in uncomfortable positions to learn and grow.
I would like a private jet named “Thunderpussy” in cherry red with a lighting bolt on the tail. Airports suck!
Dream commission?
An entire boutique hotel, Skins for private jets, skins for 100′ yacht… collaboration with Louis Vuitton and Hermes for custom Birkins.
I often find that things that you think you want are not what you need at all.
Your favorite host / hostess gift to give?
Veuve Cliquot magnum hand painted but, the best gift is a really good dildo, a rabbit and batteries.
Flowers are always a good idea. Over the top the better.
Who is your style icon?
Women in Marrakesh or Audrey Hepburn though we are not of same cloth but, I admire her sensibility. They change all the time. I am not a cookie cutter kinda girl.
Your favorite up and coming artist?
Alexandra Arnold from SCAD, phenomenal photographer who captures women.
What is your most treasured possession?
Pitango rings and Mercura glasses are an extension of me…
or my Celine bags, and Camilla caftans….
What are you reading?
I am researching for an upcoming book by a major international publisher. I am not really a reader… but a constant crafter and creator.
What are you listening to?
Nirvana Unplugged – MTV Unplugged in New York was the first Nirvana album released following the death of Kurt Cobain.
and Robyn for electronic music… I also love Jazz
What are your favorite blogs / publications?
So are you as enamored with this wild woman as I am?
Her vivacious and vibrant personality just drawns you in…just like her artwork.
Expect BIG things and MAJOR celebrity collaboration in the very near future. Shhhh.
Her Anthropologie collaboration is amazing too. See it all HERE.
Here are just a few favorites… I really love it all!
all images COURTESY OF ASHLEY LONGSHORE or ASHLEYLONGSHOREART INSTAGRAM
I am just a waitin on my selfie….
Here is what I sent in…go ahead and send yours too!
