We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ashley Palmer. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ashley below.
Alright, Ashley thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?
I have experienced numerous instances in my life where I have come to realize that my utmost happiness lies in wholeheartedly dedicating myself to my craft as an artist and creative individual. This realization first dawned upon me during my college years. I explored various educational fields such as Computer Design, Game Design, and Interior Design, all of which piqued my interest to some extent but failed to truly fulfill my innate need for creativity. Eventually, I made the conscious decision to channel my focus more towards the realm of art, leading me to pursue a major in Integrative Studies. This program allowed me to immerse myself in Studio Arts and Marketing, both of which became the cornerstones of my academic journey.
In the past, I have taken on various “regular” jobs, finding myself frequently employed by individuals who were also pursuing their own dreams. From locally owned Juice bars in California and Ohio to a paint and sip studio and a non-profit Fine Arts Academy, I consistently found myself questioning why I was investing my time, energy, and effort into someone else’s aspirations when I could be channeling those resources towards my own dreams. While I didn’t completely lose sight of my own ambitions and objectives in these instances, the overwhelming workload I undertook for others left me with little time to dedicate to my own entrepreneurial endeavors. Building and nurturing one’s own dream as a business owner and creative can be an arduous task, particularly when one is heavily invested in external commitments. Furthermore, it entails significant financial risks.
However, I have discovered that the rewards I reap from consistently pursuing my own business and artistic pursuits far surpass any I have gained from working for others. Engaging in these endeavors has bestowed upon me a heightened sense of happiness, reduced stress levels, and a profound feeling of fulfillment. When I wholeheartedly devote myself to my creative passions, everything takes on meaning, purpose, and breathes life into me.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I have always been an artist, engaging in drawing, painting, and various creative pursuits for as long as I can remember. Accompanied by my grandmother, I used to frequent craft shops and art stores, eagerly scouring the aisles in search of my next project or the necessary supplies to transform my imaginative ideas into reality. Upon graduating from Kent State University, my academic focus encompassed a diverse range of subjects, including Studio Arts, Marketing, Psychology, and Pan-African Studies. Growing up, I was surrounded by entrepreneurial spirits within my two families, from my grandparents and aunts to my uncles and even my father. Their unwavering drive and success inspired me to forge my own path, one that would not only bring me immense joy but also provide financial sustenance. With their guidance, I knew that my aspirations were attainable. From the outset, I harbored a steadfast desire to become an artist or creator. Any business venture I embarked upon had to incorporate my inherent creativity, leading me to establish Palmystree.
Palmystree represents the culmination of my passions: metaphysics, the unconventional, holistic practices, and the realms of creativity and artistry. Through my business, I teach yoga and meditation classes, infuse Reiki into the artwork and products I create, offer insights into the worlds of art, tarot, and astrology, and guide individuals in tapping into their inner creativity, even if they believe they possess none. As for the products I offer, they range from Reiki-charged jewelry, candles, and self-care items to artwork and clothing. In terms of services, I provide website design and management, branding and logo design, astrological consultations, tarot readings, and occasional mentoring.
My primary objective in assisting clients is to help them overcome their self-imposed limitations, fostering a sense of liberation and inviting greater freedom into their lives while empowering them to recognize their own creative potential. Furthermore, I aid clients in navigating the direction of their brand, whether that involves creating a logo, building a website, or providing advice on various aspects.
What distinguishes me from others in my field is my unique approach. I firmly believe that not everything needs to adhere to mundane practicality; even the most routine tasks can be infused with fun and creativity. By integrating my knowledge of yoga and Reiki, which center around energy and vibration, with practical elements such as website design and color theory, I offer a holistic and harmonious perspective.
One aspect of my journey that fills me with immense pride is my unwavering commitment to staying true to myself and following my deepest passions. Although I have ventured on occasional side quests while traversing the main narrative of my life, I have consistently returned to my purpose and the sources of utmost joy. This is a lesson I aspire to impart to others, regardless of their age or stage in life. It is essential to embrace the ability to shift, evolve, and explore. You need not be tethered to a single path or remain stagnant indefinitely. Dare to dream big, think outside the box, and embark on novel endeavors. Often, the path you seek has yet to be forged, and it is your calling to create it. While seeking advice from others may be tempting, it is within yourself that the answers for your destined work lie. Above all, never allow “no” or any form of rejection to extinguish your light. Perhaps your radiance is simply not meant for a specific job, person, space, situation, or opportunity, but that does not imply that it is not destined for something even greater and more significant.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.
Non-creatives often face challenges in comprehending the profound impact of the arts, the significance of supporting local artists instead of solely seeking international talents (although they deserve opportunities too), and the true value inherent in art and creativity. Unfortunately, there is an increasing trend of art programs being cut from schools and organizations, leading to a severe underestimation of the power of the arts. Art is frequently viewed as mere entertainment, trivial and lacking the investment of time, effort, or thought. It is often dismissed as a simple hobby for those who enjoy it. However, it encompasses so much more. Without the arts, our world would be deprived of essential elements. There would be no television, no captivating advertisements, no aesthetically pleasing interior designs, and an overall lack of vibrancy in the life we lead.
Another issue that plagues non-creatives is their tendency to overlook the incredible potential of their local creative community, which actively seeks to enhance their towns or cities. Many creative jobs are outsourced to larger corporations or artists, while local talents struggle to find recognition and support on their creative journeys. These local artists yearn for someone in their community to acknowledge their worth and contribute to their growth.
Lastly, non-creatives frequently underestimate the dedication and effort that creatives invest in their work, whether it pertains to the cost of artistic endeavors, their willingness to pay a fair price, or the substantial amount of time required for the creative process. It is crucial for non-creatives to recognize the immense value and dedication that underpins the work of artists.
By shedding light on these aspects, we can foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the creative journey, benefiting both creatives and non-creatives alike.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
I believe society can best support artists, creatives, and foster a thriving creative ecosystem by valuing and respecting the arts. This includes investing in arts education, investing in local art from local artists, providing grants and funding opportunities, creating accessible platforms for artists to exhibit and sell their work, promoting diverse artistic voices, and cultivating a culture that appreciates and supports the arts. Society and even networks play a vital role in recognizing the impact of art, providing resources and opportunities, and fostering an environment where artists can thrive and contribute to the vibrant tapestry of our communities.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.palmystree.com
- Instagram: @palmystree
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/palmystree
- Twitter: @palmystree
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/palmystree
- Other: TikTok: @Palmystree Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/palmystree
Image Credits
Yoga Photo Credits: David Dingwell