Meet Ashley Hizer | Abstract Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Hizer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I taught middle and high-school language arts professionally, but have been creating my entire life. I started painting abstracts when I moved to Atlanta from San Diego in 2011, and one thing lead to another. I honestly didn’t believe my art was good enough to share with others, but my husband encouraged me to start an Etsy shop in 2012, so I obliged – as an experiment. I sold a few, and then I got a call from a gallery owner in New Jersey about putting some pieces there. So, shortly after that partnership, I moved to selling off my own website, and then working local interior designers and galleries. And before I knew it, gallery owners in other states. Things were picking up and I was far more passionate about art than teaching, so I took the plunge and started making art full-time. I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit, so making and selling art is such a dream come true. Not only is creating fulfilling, but I’ve so enjoyed the connections I’ve been able to make and knowing that I’m adding beauty to people’s home in a small way is invigorating. It pushes me to keep growing as an artist and work even harder.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I make original abstract paintings, and I also offer prints, and regularly accept commissions. I describe my art as soothing yet complex, full of texture and layered brushstrokes. I hope my art tells a narrative that brings joy and peace into people’s homes. As far as process goes, I’m initially motivated by an emotion, which impacts everything from color scheme to scratches and brush strokes. My art is a response to the world around me: conversations, travels abroad, my eclectic playlist, and family, are among my creative fuel. When I paint, I try to step away from distractions and completely surrender. That’s when I produce my best work and pour all of me into my craft. I’ve been creating for years now, and it’s taken lots of trial and error, successes and failures – I’m still learning every day. Working as an artist has its challenges – it can be inconsistent, which is discouraging, as my livelihood depends on my creative output. As a busy mom too, it’s hard to break away and create without distractions. It can take some time to get “in the zone,” so my husband and I have really had to tag-team and be intentional about scheduling time for me to escape. My husband and I actually just finished a basement art studio, so I’m very excited to have a dedicated, inspiring space to paint. I work unconventional hours; often weekends, but it’s definitely worth it because I absolutely love what I do. It’s fulfilling, inspiring, and I hope that it positively impacts others. I have met some really wonderful clients, interior designers, and even others in the art world. I have a long way to go and there are so many goals I want to accomplish, but somehow I have been able to sell my artwork to collectors within three continents. My work has also been featured in a home makeover show on the DIY Channel with Chip Wade, the halls of corporate headquarter skyrises, galleries in multiple states, art shows at retailers like West Elm, and an interior designer showhouse here in Atlanta. I am very, very grateful for these opportunities. It’s the things like those that push me forward despite the challenges, and keep me creating and dreaming.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
What I love about Atlanta is that there is so much to do – and eat. I’ll be honest, our day would probably revolve around food! We’d start by grabbing coffee at Valor in downtown Alpharetta (near where I live), and then we’d head down to Little Rey for some huevos rancheros. Being from Southern California, I was so excited when I found that gem. Then, we’d walk off our food at Piedmont Park, which is a must-do whenever someone new comes to town. I used to live a few blocks away from Piedmont Park, and I’ll never forget the first time I stepped foot there during the springtime. We’d also fit in a few rounds at the High Museum of Art. And, maybe some shopping along the Westside, grab some smoothies at Arden’s Garden (they don’t have them up north!), and then end the day with one (or a few) of the following – Kimball House, Gunshow, King + Duke, Vortex, or The Optimist. That’d be an ideal day.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My biggest support and encouragement has been my husband. He is the one who pushed me to create and do what I love, and then take it a step further and start selling my work. He’s always put himself on the back burner so that I can do what I love. He’s also my business guru and handsome handyman!

Website: www.ashleyhizer.com
Instagram: @ashleyhizerart
Facebook: @ashleyhizerart