Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Miller.
Hi Ashley, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
When I was going through cancer in 2019 I was unable to play music due to all of the abdominal surgeries. As a creative type without an outlet I was losing my mind! I began having daydreams of gemstones and metals and took that as a sign to pivot creatively and I began the process of learning a new trade. I read books and watched tutorials and practiced on copper until I became confident enough to create with Gold and silver. Encouraged by friends and family I started a website and began doing art festivals and jewelry parties at private homes. I never would have imagined that so much beauty could be born from such pain. Facing your own mortality will change you. It will make you become more compassionate with a desire to help others. I knew that making jewelry alone would not fulfill me so I began working with the Village at Glencliff, Nashville’s only medical respite for those experiencing homelessness. With every piece sold I donate a percentage to the Village. How can there be beauty in art if we aren’t sharing our gifts to help our community?
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The cancer part was rough but as I previously mentioned it was the catalyst for the art. I feel very lucky that I have had such great success from the beginning of my career.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
The most important aspect of my work is that I use the gifts bestowed to us by Mother Earth. When possible I go with gemstone providers that use sustainable practices. I believe the overuse of plastics is a great harm to our world so you will never find plastic in any of my pieces.
I am most proud of the delicate, time consuming earrings I make. I love the challenge of making replicas with stones that are one of a kind. I like the hunt of mixing and matching stones to try and get them to line up on each earring as close as possible.
I think my attention to detail and use of teeny tiny gemstones and delicate chains set me apart from many artists. When you look at most of my pieces you can tell they are a labor of love
Any big plans?
I try not to look too far into the future as I have learned how fast life can change. All the plans we make are just that, plans. They are subject to change anytime Good Lord Willing.
I believe in living day to day and taking challenges as they come. I think if I keep staying on the path I’m on the sky is the limit. My dream is to be able to create music and art for the remainder of my days and from where I’m sitting, the odds are looking really good.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.ashleymillerartist.com
- Instagram: ashleymillerartist
