Welcome to The Visual Diaries, where we talk to like-minded visual-oriented businesses and downright inspiring people. We chat all things from humble beginnings to future aspirations. We get to the nuts and bolts of how they got to where they are today, the ins-and-outs of their craft, and thought you might like to come along for the ride.
We talk with the lovely Ashleigh Holmes, a fourth-generation artist based in the Northern Beaches of Sydney. Ash has been painting for as long as she can remember. Back in July we sat down with Ash and shot her in her studio. We chat with Ash about her journey to become the professional abstract, expressionistic painter she is today, her creative process, and where her career has taken her.
Can you share with us your journey as an artist? When did it all begin?
From as young as I could remember I always had a great interest in art, creatively it was something that I was drawn to and really felt that it was where my strengths lay. I have 3 generations of women before me who all had an Artistic career. Starting out as a vocational pursuit I spent late nights and weekends consumed in my home studio, whilst working full-time in fashion; I loved every minute of the artistic process and used the creativity to fuel my passion, being able to paint every day has been incredibly humbling.
Talk us through your creative process? Where does it start?
It starts with an idea or concept either for a single piece or at times a complete body of work. I will sketch up compositions and then think about the tones and size work. I love working with large scale pieces it allows the piece to speak loudly. I’ve also been experimenting with diptych pieces. Once I’ve gathered all the materials necessary, I’ll dive straight into putting down paint on canvas. From there it’s a layer upon layer process until I feel complete.
Do you ever find yourself in a creative rut and if so, how do you get out of it?
If I ever feel at a halt with a piece, I’ll change my environment, have a break from what I’m working on. This gives me another perspective for inspiration to move forward. It’s about giving it time to resolve and reflect to then move forward.
Do you find social media is more of a blessing or a curse? How does it impact you?
I think it’s a great way to portfolio your work and connect with like-minded people. It’s important not to search for acceptance on social platforms, utilise the way we can connect with other parts of the world.
Your pieces end up all over the world, where is the coolest place you’ve sent a piece?France. I wish I could have hand-delivered it haha.
Where is the most exciting place your job has taken you?
Marbella, Spain. I did a show there last year which was a beautiful place to stay and exhibit. The people and landscape changed my practise.
Words to live by?
Open to anything, attached to nothing!
instagram.com/ashholmesart
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