Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashaki Ali.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I am a multidisciplinary artist and founder of a black women and femmes artist collective in the city. I have been creating for all of my life but as life became complex, I put my artistic pursuits away. In 2020, I was working in an extremely stressful environment and suffering from panic attacks. I was forced to resign from that job and ended up working part time as a wellness nurse at a local assisted living facility (I have been a nurse for 25 years). Nevertheless, during the pandemic, I picked my paintbrush back up. In May of that same year, I lost my mother, followed by an aunt and my sister that September and October and painting was therapy for me. And I have not stopped making ever since.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely been a struggle but I have persevered. I am self taught and had no knowledge of the art world. But, I have built community with other artists and have slowly expanded my reach. I am a mother, I still work full-time, and finding time to do my art, apply to calls, apply for grants, etc is challenging but I am no quitter. I see the value in what I am doing and love being a creative. I have something to say so I continue to strive.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a multidisciplinary creative- I paint (oil and acrylic), create prints, create multimedia pieces, started sculpting last year, and am dabbling in abstract digital collage. I also write and have self published a memoir, a book of poetry, and a children’s book. I crochet as well and am working on my first quilt. I am known for my focus on the black experience and spirituality. I actively work to showcase the richness, beauty, and complexity of the Afrikan diasporic culture.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
First and foremost, I have to pay homage to my ancestors- my creativity is a gift that flows through my bloodline. Secondly, my family (extended/spiritual/community) are super supportive and have kept me inspired to continue when I felt like giving up. My artist friends continually challenge me to strive for more. I completed my first mural with mentorship from Bunny Gregory, the artist in my collective are doing amazing work and I am grateful to know them. My children keep me honest, make me laugh, remind me of my childhood. Lastly, my partner, Marquist, loves me, cheers for me when I feel my lowest, and is super supportive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.artbyashaki.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbyashaki
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ArtByAshaki
