Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Townsend.
Hi Ashley, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Six years ago, I created an Instagram account (@ashspatches) as a digital diary where I’d openly speak about self-growth, positivity, and our creative potential as people. This was the first time I felt aligned with my purpose of inspiring others. Ash’s Patches, though not active today, was a pivotal building block that led me to create a business that was driven on purpose. In September 2020, I launched Artists Don’t School—a multimedia platform created to instill those fleeting feelings of inspiration we feel when we speak about what enthralls us. While I always had an entrepreneurial spirit, for a while I wasn’t sure how to tie all my passions together. I am naturally a very outgoing person, and it’s my lust for life that I believe has allowed me to embrace experience with open arms… as unpredictable as it may be. There is beauty in the unknown, and I feel that when we step outside our comfort zone, doors of opportunity present themselves. This year, I have plans to curate immersive art events for those who are craving the opportunity to connect and thrive in an uninterrupted environment that encourages creative expression. When we speak about what inspires us, we inspire others to do the same.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting a business, you trust and accept that things won’t necessarily go the way you want them to. That’s the beauty of taking the leap—accepting that there will be obstacles and hurdles that aren’t in your control. You can, however, control the way you react. We ran into issues during our initial launch with our embroiderer at the time. They extended the deadline numerous times, so of course, I was anxious to pick up, package, and ship out our pieces. That excitement quickly turned into disappointment. Not only were the orders rushed, but there were holes in the garments and several hoodies had been ruined during production. I had the pieces remade, and in the meantime, I sent those who supported a free art print. This obstacle gave me the chance to hold true to our value of integrity that is the backbone of the brand. That is, leaving your signature on everything you do. This hurdle gave me the chance to have crucial conversations—the ones you don’t necessarily want to have, but the ones that foster growth. This unfortunate series of events brought experience, connection, and the opportunity to persevere, and for that I’m grateful.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’ve always felt as if I specialize in creative thought. I like to think of it as the art of brainstorming—that is, coming up with a concept or idea, finding unconventional ways to elevate that concept, and then bringing it to fruition. For those who know me, they know I’m a dreamer and a visionary. These traits have allowed me to disconnect from the world around me and pay attention to what I feel I’m being called to create. This quality has manifested itself through my artwork where I paint playful interior spaces. The concept of creating and expressing my artistic vision with the world fuels me. I wholeheartedly believe we are all put on this planet to contribute something powerful, original, and meaningful. The best part about purpose is that no one can take it away from you. It’s all about honing into our passions, listening to our intuition, and embracing experience as it comes. It’s this philosophy I’m most proud of.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I accepted an invitation to attend an artist residency in France. Chateau d’Orquevaux is a renowned residency that hosts artists, writers, photographers, and musicians from all over the world. I’m still absorbing it all. The thought of spending a month living in a 17th-century Chateau is unreal—let alone collaborating with other artists, connecting with what inspires us, and painting our hearts out. I’ve never given myself the chance to explore myself through my work in an uninterrupted environment, so I’m beaming with excitement and look forward to this life-changing experience to get lost in my craft.
Contact Info:
- Email: ashley@artistsdontschool.com
- Website: artistsdontschool.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artistsdontschool/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artistsdontschool
Suggest a Story: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
