Interview with Ashley Jones, Assemblage Artist
One of the more interesting art forms of expression is found in Assemblage Art. If this term is new to you, I invite you to read this wonderful interview with Ashley Jones as she describes her process and inspiration.
Tell me about the art you produce.
My method is quite simple; I am a collector of the sort of objects others would call useless; however, in my mind these objects, each and every one, have purpose. For that reason, I merely rummage through my collection of found objects and materials until, oddly enough, it is as if they pick me. I continue adding color, texture or objects to my piece until I reach a certain unexplainable feeling of calmness, yet an uncontrollable feeling of exhilaration and accomplishment that resonates deep within my soul. It is not until then that I know my work is done.
Who are the artists that have influenced you the most and why?
First and foremost, my biggest influence has to be my very talented and artistic mother, Sandy Brockman. Then, I would have to say most of my other influence comes from the many humble and creative artists I am surrounded by in my daily life...my friends...of which there are too many to list, but they know who they are.
What life experience has influenced you the most?
I love to explore and examine the world while forming my own livable chaos. I have a tendency to be very emotional about everything I experience in life. It is these emotions, whether good or bad, which influence me the most. Consequently, when the urge to create arises, I have tendency to integrate these emotions into my creative process.
How long have you been a professional artist?
It was not until 2009, when I discovered and amazing local non-profit artist group by the name of ArtLoveMagic, that I started calling my self a professional artist. This is when I was convinced by founders of ArtLoveMagic (www.artlovemagic.com), Michael Lagocki, David Rodriguez, Justin Nygren, Deborah Driscoll and Nicki Rodriguez, that what I had been doing all my life was art.
What are your plans for your next project?
For as long as I can remember, I have had a profound love for creating art. I never follow traditional rules or styles of art. I merely listen to my heart and where ever it leads me I go. As the different stages of my life are revealed, my heart leads me in different directions. This makes for an incessant change of style and medium. When lead down each new path, one can see an overlapping and continuity in my art form from one progression to the next. I rarely begin a piece with an intentional outcome in mind; otherwise, it becomes exceedingly mundane to complete.
What vision do you have for your future?
My motive to create is merely to remain grounded as well as at peace in the crazy world I subsist. I use art as a means, not only to convey the overwhelming feelings and emotions I experience daily, but moreover, as a therapeutic means to liberate myself from them. Furthermore, I make use of my art as a device to facilitate the network of connections with those I may not have otherwise had, therefore, naturally forcing the development, evolution and progression of my work.
Where are you holding your next exhibition?
On July 23rd, at ArtLoveMagic's "GirlShow", myself and other female members of "The Just-Us League" will be working on a LIVE collaborative painting. On August 12th, I will be creating LIVE art at TREES in Dallas during the Spoonfed Tribe, "Burning Inspirations" event.
August 27th, I will be creating LIVE art at Hat Tricks in Lewisville, During the "Human Resources", "All-In", "King Ashoka" event. Follow me on Facebook to find out other events and shows as they arise.
What is your website link?
http://www.cashleyjones.etsy.com/