We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ashley Powell. 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. Has your work ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized?

My entire life I have faced discrimination because of my race. I have always been made to feel different. I have been called the wrong race and have people make assumptions about me and my family because of it. People have made rude comments and jokes at my expense, or have simply not believed me when I tell them what ethnicity I am. I had to develop a “thick skin” at an early age because of this but it doesn’t hurt any less. I never thought the color of my skin was a problem until others made me feel like it was. I am a queer Native American multi media artist. I have found my voice using my art and have learned that my differences make me who I am. It has taught me to have courage and above all else to be kind to one another. I worked on a self portrait called “Essence of Me” that is a depiction of my personal struggle with racism, self image, and mental health.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m a queer Native American multi media artist. Photography, art, and dance are a few ways I express my creativity. And working with my non profit organization to raise autism awareness.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My goal is to try to create art everyday, rather it’s by drawing or painting. Or through photography or dance. I want to grow as an artist and share my art with the community.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

I mentioned previously the struggles I have faced as a person of color and I think it is an excellent depiction of my resilience. Never giving up and rising above the challenges I have faced and still continue to face on a daily basis.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: ArtbyVendetta0881 & Ectomobile26
• Facebook: HTTPS://www.Facebook.com/DaytonaBeachGB

Image Credits
Group photo only- Magrich Photography