Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ashley Simien. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Ashley thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

Around my 20s. I’ve always been a creative person from my childhood up to now. Whether I wanted to pursue music, makeup, writing, art and even fashion. The options are endless for me. Everything ties in together and I’m blessed to say that I’m a creative that can go down ANY avenue professionally. As a child, I loved music and coming up with songs, I even loved drawing, painting and writing stories, but as I got older, I also got into fashion and makeup. Makeup is what made me pursue a license in cosmetology and start Sultry Skinbar. Before school I would practice looks on myself or friends and family. I would take makeup classes as well. Everything pretty much fell into place. However that wasn’t the only avenue. I got offered to help a family member with their social media account and create their graphics and posts. I fell in love with painting again which lead me to paint canvases for others. Things have been great professionally. I’m glad I chose art as a career.

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 creative who does a lot of things. From makeup, to art and graphics. I’m many things to different people. I got into the business by showcasing my skills and just meeting people who appreciated my skills and needed my services. I have clients who love my artwork and want pieces to help brighten up their homes or offices and others may need assistance with visuals for their social media accounts. Then there’s my loyal makeup clients who are wanting to look beautiful for special occasions. I love bringing a diverse set of skills that my clients rely on. I always give my projects one hundred percent. I make sure to put my best work forward.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The freedom of self expression! As a kid I never really had a voice and grew up struggling how to express myself and art gave me my power back. Not only do I express myself verbally, but now I’m able to do that artistically and I feel people are more receptive when it’s visual. Visuals make people feel things and if there’s anything I want more than someone to hear me, it is to FEEL me. Feel the message I’m trying to convey and honestly, even if you can’t get my message, what messages are you getting for yourself from my art?

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

The best way to support our creative community is to make sure you support your local creatives. Attend shows, buy their work and share it with others. No one will know about them until they have the support of their community. Make space for them.

Contact Info:

• Website: Liinks.co/asimien
• Instagram: Instagram.com/trillassash