Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashlyn Craig.
Hi Ashlyn, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve spent my whole life pursuing knowledge of the arts. Painting, drawing, ceramics, weaving, jewelry making, embroidery – you name it, I’ve tried it. Bridging the gaps between these different mediums, and allowing my technical knowledge to inform my work, regardless of the material, is where the fun truly lies.
I have a Bachelor of Arts from Point Loma Nazarene University, where I focused on drawing, painting, and printmaking. After finishing my degree in 2021, I found myself severely burnt out on making “traditional” art but desperately looking for another creative outlet. Right around this time, a good friend of mine invited me over for a “crafternoon,” saying she had bought everything we needed to make polymer clay earrings. I was hooked right away. Much of my jewelry showcases miniature, sculpted florals that are largely influenced by my work as a painter.
Since then, my online and pop-up shops have become primarily stocked with polymer clay and wire-wrapped gemstone jewelry. However, I have been extremely fortunate to have been able to work on some larger-scale projects, commissions, and murals in the past year.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My two biggest struggles I face as an artist go hand in hand: navigating chronic illness and dealing with artistic burnout. My chronic illnesses leave me with a limited amount of energy, so the intersection of a low-energy day and feeling uninspired by what I am making can lead to times where I really struggle to motivate myself to create. Even if I am feeling inspired to make something, knowing that the work I want to do could cause a pain flare can make me afraid to get started.
I have found it to be a necessity to take the pressure of what “should” happen off of myself and my body. Some days are unproductive, and that is okay. I know that everything will get done in its time, and when the time is right, I will shine.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a botanical artist at heart. Much of my work incorporates fruits, vegetables, and florals. With my polymer clay work, I am known for my floral jewelry that is unique and intricate while still being elegant and minimalist. I use needle tools and nail dot tools to individually sculpt leaves, petals, and other details in small batches.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
The core of who I am now developed early in my childhood. I have always been who I am and have been unapologetic about it. I have been told I was inquisitive, intelligent, caring, and nurturing, and have always been “the artist.” I was a serious perfectionist – something I still struggle to get over. In fact, in a meeting with my parents, my kindergarten teacher said, “While Ashlyn is one of the best artists in the class, it is becoming an issue. She is so focused on staying inside the lines and making sure her drawing is perfect; I can’t move her on to anything else.”
I have always wanted to communicate myself, even before I was capable. Art became an outlet for me to express myself, and once I found this voice, I wanted to use it for others who had not yet found theirs.
Contact Info:
- Website: ashlyncraigart.com
- Instagram: @ashlyncraigart
