Ashley Gregorio

Ashley Gregorio’s journey into the world of art has been one marked by encouragement, exploration, and a deepening sense of purpose. Growing up in a supportive environment where creativity was nurtured, Ashley was always encouraged to create art from a young age. "My great aunt is an artist, so I was always encouraged to create art from a very young age," she shares. This early encouragement laid the foundation for a lifelong passion for artistic expression.

Unlike many artists who face skepticism or reluctance when choosing to pursue art formally, Ashley found unwavering support from her family. "When I decided to get a formal education in art, my parents were very supportive, which sometimes you don’t see," she reflects. This support allowed her to dive fully into her studies, where she was able to experiment with different materials and techniques, ultimately discovering her personal style.

During her time in school, Ashley developed a love for photography, which became an integral part of her creative process. "Photography helped me create the reference photos for my paintings," she explains. This blending of mediums allowed her to approach her work with a unique perspective, combining the precision of photography with the expressive possibilities of painting.

Innovation in Technique

One of the most significant developments in Ashley’s artistic journey has been her innovative approach to incorporating sewing into her paintings. "My favorite thing that I have started doing is sewing into my paintings," she says. This idea, initially met with skepticism by her professor, turned out to be a breakthrough in her work. "In the end, my professor loved the final product and wanted me to do even more," she recalls. This validation encouraged her to continue exploring this technique, adding a tactile and dimensional quality to her paintings that sets her work apart.

Ashley’s creative journey took another turn during her second year of college when she became a tattoo artist. This experience opened new avenues for inspiration and collaboration. "In the last three years, I have been able to meet and work with professional artists that have given me inspiration for projects that I would have never thought of before," she says. The conversations and interactions with other tattoo artists and full-time artists have provided her with the motivation to continue evolving her art.

Success and Validation

Recently, Ashley experienced a significant milestone in her career when she sold a painting that was featured in an art show. "It made me even more passionate and excited to continue developing my artwork," she shares. This sale was not just a financial success; it was a profound validation of the countless hours she has spent honing her craft. "Being the first in the studio at school and the last to leave has and will pay off more and more," she reflects, recognizing that her dedication is paving the way for a successful artistic career.

As Ashley’s career continues to grow, she feels an increasing sense of belonging in the art world. "The more my career grows, the more I realize that there is a spot for my art in this world, which is an extremely comforting feeling," she says. This realization has fueled her passion even further, driving her to continue pushing the boundaries of her creativity and exploring new ways to express her vision.

Ashley Gregorio’s journey is a testament to the power of support, experimentation, and perseverance. Through her innovative techniques, commitment to her craft, and the inspiration she draws from the world around her, she continues to carve out a unique space for her art in the world. As she looks to the future, her work promises to keep evolving, offering new and exciting contributions to the art community.