Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Le’ana Asher. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Le’Ana , thanks for joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
The first time I knew I wanted to pursue a creative path professionally traces back to my early years in grade school, where my passion for art and design began to flourish. As far back as I can remember, I was drawn to creativity, spending countless hours making arts and crafts and exploring various design concepts.
A pivotal moment occurred in second or third grade during our weekly art classes when we had visits from “art ladies” who introduced us to famous artists like Van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, and O’Keeffe. Learning about these iconic figures and their artistic journeys opened my eyes to the possibility of turning my passion into a career. In those moments, I realized creating art could be more than just a hobby—it could be a lifelong pursuit.
My cultural heritage also played a significant role in shaping my artistic aspirations. As a Native American Ojibwe, I was fortunate to have my grandmother teach me traditional skills like loom beadwork and crafting choker necklaces. These experiences connected me deeply to my heritage and instilled in me a profound appreciation for craftsmanship and artistry.
Throughout my academic journey, I eagerly enrolled in every art class, from grade school to high school. Each class further fueled my determination to refine my skills and pursue a path that allowed me to express my creativity professionally.
In essence, the combination of early exposure to renowned artists, the influence of my cultural background, and my unwavering passion for creating solidified my decision to pursue a career in the arts. From those formative years onward, I knew with certainty that art and design were not just interests but my true calling—a path I continue to embrace wholeheartedly today.
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?
My name is Le’Ana Asher, and I am a Native American fine artist and a proud member of the Ojibwe community. My work focuses on celebrating the resilience and cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples, particularly through the lens of Woodland Tribes and Anishinaabe traditions. I specialize in realistic contemporary paintings that vividly depict powwow dancers, traditional regalia, and the symbolic elements that connect us to our land, ancestors, and culture.
In my current practice, I strive to bridge the past and present by weaving traditional elements into contemporary artistic narratives. My paintings often feature Woodland floral designs, a secret coded language in Anishinaabe regalia, and the intricate beauty of jingle dresses and ribbon skirts, which carry profound cultural and spiritual significance. My work tells the stories of resilience, healing, and the unbreakable connection between people, land, and ceremony. Beyond aesthetics, my art serves as a form of cultural preservation and resistance to the erasure of Native histories.
What sets my work apart is its ability to both educate and evoke emotion. Every piece I create is rooted in authenticity and storytelling, offering viewers a glimpse into the profound depth of Indigenous identity and tradition. My paintings provide a space where culture, history, and art intersect, inspiring conversations about the importance of Indigenous sovereignty, allyship, and understanding.
I am particularly proud of the impact my work has had in elevating Native voices within the art world. From receiving awards at juried markets like Santa Fe Indian Market and the Eiteljorg Museum Indian Market to being featured in exhibitions at the Center for Native Futures and the Muskegon Museum of Art, my journey has been deeply rewarding. These achievements reflect not only my personal growth but also the growing recognition of Indigenous art as an essential part of the broader cultural narrative.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want my work to resonate as more than just visual art—it is an invitation to learn, to reflect, and to connect. Whether through commissioned portraits, paintings of powwow dancers, or landscapes that honor the ancestral land, I aim to create works that spark meaningful dialogue and foster greater appreciation for Native culture and artistry. My ultimate goal is to ensure that the stories, symbols, and teachings of my culture continue to thrive and inspire for generations to come.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
Society can best support artists and foster a thriving creative ecosystem by acknowledging artists’ multifaceted roles—not just as creators but as entrepreneurs, breadwinners, and cultural voices of our time. As a minority artist, a female artist, a single mother, and a Native American artist, I know firsthand the challenges of navigating an industry that often overlooks the unique barriers we face. For artists like me, authenticity is not just a choice but a necessity; it is how we preserve our identities, tell our stories, and contribute to the broader narrative of humanity.
To truly support artists, society must first recognize that we are not only storytellers but also innovators and business owners. Many of us manage our creative practices while balancing financial responsibilities, raising families, and navigating systemic inequities. For single mothers, in particular, the demands of caregiving and earning a living can make pursuing a creative career seem daunting. Providing resources like affordable childcare, access to healthcare, and grants or fellowships designed to support underrepresented voices would go a long way in creating opportunities for artists to thrive.
Additionally, representation matters. As a Native American artist, I often find that the voices of Indigenous people are still underrepresented or misrepresented in mainstream culture. Society can address this by investing in diverse platforms that amplify the work of minority artists, curating exhibitions that center our stories, and supporting policies that prioritize equity and inclusion in the arts.
Artists are the cultural memory keepers and catalysts for change. Through our work, we document our time’s struggles, triumphs, and realities. Supporting us means valuing our authenticity and providing the tools we need to grow as creatives and entrepreneurs who contribute to the economy. This includes fair compensation, access to professional development, and dismantling gatekeeping systems that perpetuate inequality in the arts.
In short, a thriving creative ecosystem values artists of all backgrounds for the depth and authenticity they bring to their work. By investing in us, society invests in its growth, understanding, and humanity. Together, we can create a world where art is seen as an accessory to life and a driving force for connection, innovation, and progress.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
I built my social media audience by focusing on authenticity, storytelling, and connecting deeply with my community. I share high-quality images of my art with meaningful captions that explain the cultural significance of my work, fostering genuine engagement and relationships with my followers. Key advice for starting: be authentic, tell your story, post consistently, engage with your audience, invest in quality visuals, and remain patient and persistent. Social media is a powerful tool for building connections, sharing your journey, and showcasing your unique voice and work.
However, creatives face significant challenges in the ever-evolving social media landscape. These include algorithm changes that limit visibility, the pressure of constant content creation, and the rise of AI-generated content competing with original work. Additionally, minority creators, including Native American artists, often face bias in moderation systems and struggle with monetization. Despite these obstacles, social media remains an essential platform for artists to connect with their audience, amplify their voices, and share their stories. Staying authentic, consistent, and engaged while navigating these hurdles is key to long-term success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.leanaasher.com
- Instagram: @LeAnaAsherArt
- Facebook:
