"The creatures in [Ashley] Pierce's work seem to be acting in their own little dramas. They are whimsical at first glance but it soon becomes clear that they are struggling with more complex issues. Surprisingly, because it's not clear if they are male or female or even if they are human. Ashley regards most of her characters as self-portraits."

Ohio Art League member-artist Ashley D. Pierce (Ashley Pauley) is a self-taught mixed media artist born and residing in Columbus, Ohio. The subject matter of her work is drawn from her personal experiences, emotions and people in her life. Sometimes her work seems light and comical, but often it's deceiving dealing with deeper more complex issues. Pattern and texture play an important role in her work as she states that it allows her time to build relationships and work out conflicts with her subject matter. The unique style of her work allows the viewer to create their own story and dialog with the piece.

In the artist's own words: "I start with an idea and create a very loose sketch on wood. It’s not until I start inking the drawing in until I know if it will work out or not."


Read more about the artist here!