Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Van Loozen.
Hi Ashley, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Hi! I’m Ashley! Growing up, I had always had my hands in crayons, pencils, markers, you name it. My mom likes to tell the story that I was coloring within the lines at 18 months old. I remember being put into a gifted and talented program in third grade for a sketch of The Grinch. It seems art followed me for a big portion of my life. However, once I went to college, I sort of forgot about art and focused on medicine. I went on to become a Physician Assistant and practice cardiology. It wasn’t until I had my first son that I picked up my pencils and paintbrushes again. I started off trying to please the masses with watercolor and did custom pet portraits. That evolved into some acrylic paintings and landscapes I thought people would enjoy. It wasn’t until recently that I decided to paint for myself, and this is where I’m still learning.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No. It’s been a struggle to find my own rhythm and style, and I’m still working on finding my true ‘signature’ in the art world. The biggest challenge is navigating working on art and raising two young boys at home full time. Finding the time is hard, but I have noticed that I tend to focus on what it is I want to paint in that moment now.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I focus on soft and muted landscapes that transport me to a different place. I also dabble in linework that focuses on motherhood, a new world I myself entered two years ago. I’m most proud of setting aside my perfectionism to try new mediums and I’m always learning. I recently organized a project with one of my best friends and raised $1000 for the Girls Empowerment Project. I wouldn’t say I’m “known” for anything just yet, but I’m working on it!
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I’m not sure if I would say luck has played a role. I do admit that my privilege has had a big impact on my ability to paint. I guess I could say I’m lucky to be able to stay at home with my two boys and find time to paint on the side.
Contact Info:
- Email: Byashvanloo@gmail.com
- Website: www.byashvanloo.com
- Instagram: Byashvanloo
Image Credits
Fenske Foto
