The Artwork Of Kirsten Ashley

The Drunken Decline Of The Crayola Sketch

2012-01-19T11:00:00.000-08:00

I was at a party a few days ago. Most people will find something to do when they're bored or drunk with a lag in conversation. The socially awkward art geek will find a box of Crayola and computer paper, and get to work. That's just what I did. Below are a series of sketches drawn while imbibing.

The first sketch.

Definitely tipsy at this point.

Definitely drunk. Drew a still life of a clementine that was personalized by an equally drunk friend.

Tumblr

2011-03-10T12:02:00.000-08:00

Please add my Tumblr account. http://kirsten-ashley.tumblr.com/ I plan on being a little more active over there.

Custom Designed Bookmarks

2010-12-28T16:11:00.000-08:00

Like most artsy types, I decided to take the handmade challenge this holiday season. I experimented with soap making, which was a first, and I made an array of handmade bookmarks.
Below is an array of some of the bookmarks I made throughout December.

(Click on the images to see the full size view on Flickr.)

This process got me thinking of some of the custom made bookmarks I've made for clients. My favorite set was an orchid theme. I had just been to the Longwood Gardens exhibit a few months previous to the commission. There was a room with walls full of beautiful breeds of orchids. This was one of the major inspirations for this set.
A photo of the bookmark set:

Another Traveling Blog

2010-11-14T16:06:00.000-08:00

When I travel I need a big purse. I bring along the usual suspects- wallet, money, pen, medications- along with feminine neccessities- eyeliner, shadow, powder, makeup brush- as well as the obligatory sketcher's stash of sketchbook, pencil sharpener, watercolors, colored pencils.
It makes me happy when lugging all that crap around isn't in vain. Traveling, for example. If the ride on the train or bus isn't too bumpy it's quite fun and time-killing to sketch whatever comes to mind.
Two weeks ago I went trekking from Virginia to Pennsylvania to Massachusetts and back again.
Medusa was sketched while in Philly

Title: "Medusa Reimagined"
Size: 9x11"
Medium: Colored pencil

This was sketched in Boston, finished in Philly.

Title: "Ambivalence"
Size: 9x11"
Medium: Colored Pencil

This last one was drawn in a pizza shop on a layover in Washington D.C.

Title: Hand Study
Medium: Colored pencil
Size: 9x11"

Keep up to date with sketching and the Draw 365 Project by adding me on Flickr and my Facebook Fan Page.

The Pastel Trick

2010-11-13T16:15:00.000-08:00

A few days ago I was reading through some art books I had check out of the library. There was one pastel book in particular that gave me a tip I have to share.

Most people who own a set of soft pastels know how dingy they become. There was a particular set I own that were covered in so much mud colored pastel dust that I couldn't tell which color was which. I took the advice in the book and filled a container with uncooked rice. Then I put the pastels in, and shook it up. Almost immediately the pastels absorbed the excess pastel dust.
End result: Purple gray tinged rice and clean pastels!

Clark

2010-11-08T18:17:00.000-08:00

Last Friday I helped craft what can only be described as, uh, props, for my friends' foray into documentary film/art biopic, Clark. Check out the blog link to be kept up to date with the episodes!

Please note: the show contains adult content and themes. In fact, my favorite line from the show thus far has to be, "Fuck Picasso! Rick Allen is the best drummer alive. Picasso has two arms and he can't even drum. He's a piece of shit."

Don't Cry For Me

2010-10-19T18:22:00.000-07:00

I have a little known artfire page. It's been neglected because it's basically a mirror of my Etsy shop. Well, damned if I apear my first Artfire Collection today! It's titled "Don't Shed A Tear For Me," and my hand painted trinket box "Moon Tears" is featured. CLICK HERE to see it!

A Beautiful Thing

2010-09-23T04:54:00.000-07:00

The beautiful thing about taking on projects like Draw 365 is that it can inspire others to create. Take, for example, my friend Poly Hobby Mommy. She saw that I was doing it and took up the task herself. You can see her blog post about her first day with it. Good luck arting, my dear!
And here are a few selected pieces I've done with Draw 365.
Inspired by Ms. Amanda Fucking Palmer:

Clara Bow:

REMINDER: My artgasmic giveaway is still going on over on my facebook page for another 5 days. You still have a chance at the $25 mystery art package! Please participate and spread the love!

Kirsten Ashley's First Artgasmic Giveaway Contest

2010-09-21T11:44:00.000-07:00

My first ever art giveaway officially starts today, Tuesday, September 21st, 2010. I'll be holding it for one week. Prizes will be a mystery package full of artwork from my Etsy shop (www.kirstenashley.etsy.com). $25 worth of items such as cameo rings, hand painted bookmarks, note cards, and art prints. What you have to do to enter the contest is share the Artwork Of Kirsten Ashley facebook page link with everyone- post it on your wall, blog, twitter, tumblr, etc. I will be posting a daily list of new "likes" I get to the page. If someone on your friends list was chosen let me know by finding a piece of mine from my photo albums and posting a comment. The winner will be announced on Tuesday, September 28th via the Artwork Of Kirsten Ashley facebook fan page.

Breakdown for the skimmers:

- Start to end time is one week, September 21st to September 28th.

- Share this linke: http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Artwork-Of-Kirsten-Ashley/125420693098 with your friends.

- When I post a list of new "likes" to my page you post who of your friends "liked" my page via photo comment.

- Winner will be announced on http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Artwork-Of-Kirsten-Ashley/125420693098.

The Whatfor's And The Why's

2010-09-11T08:14:00.000-07:00

I've taken up the Draw 365 project. I mentioned it in the previous post, but I'd like to write a little more about it now.

The project isn't my original idea. I'm taking cues from the likes of Project 365:Draw The Line and Flickr's Draw A Day photo stream. I don't know who the originator of the project was, but I'm certainly making attempts to follow in the collective footprints amid work, mood swings, and illness. In lieu of my portable sketchbook, I'd take brown paper napkins from the dispenser at work and draw on my breaks. Wherever I am I attempt to leave a creative footprint: a sketch, a painting, a collage, something.

To address the big WHY of doing this. My mom has lamented to me her want to get back into art. She has the materials readily available. She just doesn't have the time or energy. She has mortgage payments to make, a career responsibilities she can't shirk. Her breaks are usually taken up by working straight through them. So long as my life isn't leased to responsibility I will try and perfect my craft; keep a forward moving trajectory. Why did I take on this project? Because I can.

Draw 365

2010-08-29T20:48:00.000-07:00

About a month ago I finally decided to accept a challenge and take on the Draw 365 project. For those of you who haven't heard what that is, it's pretty self explanatory. Drawing every day, no matter if it's a figure study sketch, a line drawing, or working on a painting. Basically, keep yourself sketching and creating constantly throughout the year. I'm tracking my progress via FLICKR. You should too.
Here are a few highlights:
The napkin sletch from July:

Later became inspiration for the live painting I did at the July 2010's Handmade Market:

Silhouette

2010-06-19T18:21:00.000-07:00

Recently, I attended Etsy's anniversary craft party in Norfolk. There was a craft station set up for cutting out mustaches out of black felt. I made a few, but my favorite creation of the night was this cameo girl on a stick:
The little victorian girl in me squeals at the sight of cameo's. I've been fascinated with cameos and silhouettes for quite a while. The art of silhouette is quite an interesting one. It was a post- oil paint pre-photograph way to capture a person's image. Classical silhouette portraiture is traditionally cut from black paper and mounted on a white background. Noted 18th century silhouette artists include Johanna Caspar and John Miers.
This is one of my favorite's from John Miers:

I've tried an updated version by cutting them from ornately patterned paper.
Like so:

I'm thinking of taking custom orders for silhouette portraits in this style. Thoughts? Opinions? Feelings?

Big Art Show At Pterodactyl Philly

2010-06-16T21:34:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday I participated in Pterodactyl Philly's first installment of Big Art Show. There were good art, good people, good music. (That helped in lieu of an air conditioner!)
Here are some photos of my time at the show:

Some of my artwork hanging on the wall. ("Stab","Sisters" framed, and "Tracks" matted.)

More art, necklaces, and notecards.

Rings and prints.

Big Art Show!

Illustration Friday

2010-05-21T18:20:00.000-07:00

In celebration of Illustration Friday I present to you, dear readers, my entry in this week's "early" theme, "Window View" :

The word early always carried the thought of a blur between late nights and budding mornings. This painting represents the theme quite well for me; it was the first thing I painted in my Kennett Square room. The same room I looked out into the black and saw the twilight of early mornings, signaling my need to sleep.

Spring Loaded!

2010-04-28T13:25:00.000-07:00

Hello Dear Readers,
I'll be vending at Norfolk Virginia's Spring Loaded Arts And Music Festival this coming Sunday. I'm also going to do something new; making live art during the festival. There will also be live music and other crafty vendors there. Among them is GymboHannah, who makes adorable decorative frames and knickknacks. Come for the art, and stay for the music! You can check the lineup out at the Spring Loaded Event Site
Please download the flier below for more detailed information. If you can't make it, but would like to support my ventures please post this blog link or print out the flier. It's all appreciated! Maybe I'll even give you a cookie for your valiant efforts.

Date: Sunday, May 2nd
Time: 11:00AM-5:30PM
Location: 5 Points Farm Market
2500 Church St
Norfolk, VA

---------------------------------------------------
In other news, I've been experimenting with a cut paper collage technique. Here are the two most recent pieces:
"Sisters"

Sisters by ~heartshapedscarz on deviant ART
"Sweet Jane"
A piece for an art trade with Allie Hartley

Sweet Jane by ~heartshapedscarz on deviant ART

Linked

2010-04-09T17:35:00.000-07:00

I'm submitting to IllustrationFriday.com for the first time on this lovely cool Friday evening, after hearing of the site through this article.
This week's illustration theme is "linked." My contribution is the piece "Burning Memory." I chose this because of the metaphorical linking to childhood and my past coupled with the literal links of the chains on the swing.

TOMORROW!

2010-03-26T11:36:00.000-07:00

The show at Abigail Rose is TOMORROW! CLICK HERE for more details. It's indoors, so you don't even need to worry about the umbrella. Come out and browse art, buy some cute one of kind/vintage finds, and say hello to me of course.

Kirsten Ashley At The Abigail Rose Boutique This Weekend

2010-03-23T19:16:00.001-07:00

To all you Norfolk, Richmond, and Hampton Roads area Virginian's: Please come join me in Norfolk's historic Ghent area this Saturday. I'll be showing original artwork at the Abigail Rose boutique as part of their new Craft Weekend series.
Here is all the nitty gritty-
LOCATION: Abigail Rose Boutique
Norfolk, VA
PHONE: 757-351-3619
DATE: Saturday, March 27th
TIME: 9AM-6PM
WEBSITE: Abigailroseva.com

If you aren't in the local area, or aren't able to make it for whatever reason but would still like to show your support please go HERE for a downloadable/printable flyer. Repost it on facebook or twitter, print it out and hang it in your favorite coffee shop or bar. Any help promoting this is appreciated! It's my first try at an event down south. I need all the rallying I can muster up.

New Supplies

2010-03-21T12:21:00.000-07:00

I have new Easter themed supplies in my shop now- adorable little bunny rings!

Also new to the shop is a vintage cookbook.

Etsy
Buy Handmade
KirstenAshley

Keep an eye out for upcoming framed prints, necklaces, and rings.

A Stroke Of Luck

2010-03-17T16:47:00.000-07:00

This blog is my place to post about my own artwork and happenings surrounding it, but not so anti-community as to not mention my good fortune in regard to the people I've come into contact with in the art community. Mind you, most of this is online. But that isn't a bad thing. See? The internet is not just for porn.

Recently I was sent 2 beautiful watercolor pieces by fellow Deviantart artist Blake Krause.
Here I am holding them up with glee as I don't have a spot to hang them yet.

I also recently won a set of buttons from doll artist Christie Bastet of Bastet Creepy Doll fame. I won them via the forums on Etsy, so you Etsiers, keep your eyes peeled.

And lastly, I was gifted a pair of earrings from my (real life!) friend Sweetji. I love them!

Le Bebbe Homme Pleurant

2010-03-10T18:21:00.000-08:00

I usually don't tout my politics, but this is just too amusing.

And The Day Came When The Risk To Remain Tight In The Bud Was More Painful Than The Risk It Took To Blossom.

2010-02-23T18:16:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I found a ad for a job dream. Nothing too glamorous, but a step in the right direction to make my fantasies come true- a job getting paid to make art. It was a few states away from where I am, but I took the risk. Within a few days I recieved a call in response to my application. Last weekend I carted my portfolio and my best sunday dress to the interview. There was a copy- this- xeroxed- design- in sharpie sort of challenge, and a 3 minute minute sketch challenge. The first one I nailed. The latter could have been improved, but wasn't horrible for a 3 minute sketch on the fly. My interviewer was also impressed with this quick portrait I had completed the day before the interview of Amanda Palmer :

And today I received an email telling me that I've made it to the second "audition" round. I'm not hired, but I made it to the next step! So from now until Saturday afternoon I'll be practicing like mad. If you have a good photo you'd like turned into a pastel portrait email it to me. I'll let you know if I use your photo, and if I do I'll be posting it on this blog.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
End note: Please follow, friend, add me on these other sites if you aren't already:

Twitter
Facebook
Deviantart
Art Bistro

The LOVE/ANTI-LOVE sale.

2010-01-31T19:45:00.000-08:00

All things uncomely and broken,
all things worn-out and old,
The cry of a child by the roadway,
the creak of a lumbering cart,
The heavy steps of the ploughman,
splashing the wintry mould,
Are wronging your image that blossoms
a rose in the deeps of my heart.

With the coming of February comes that sometimes dreaded, sometimes exalted holiday- Saint Valentines. Some people are in love. I'm lucky enough to be one of those elite, personally. But I realize not everyone has a song on their lips and butterflies churning in their guts. I remember dark times where Valentines Day was just another day that amplified my loneliness. One year in particular I bought Placebo's 'Without You I'm Nothing' and made collages about heartbreak and venereal diseases. I kept this feeling in mind for my Love/Anti-Love sale; After all, not everyone's in love. This collection includes 50% off signed art prints, select original artwork, and wooden trinket boxes. This is also the debut of my new notecard series. CLICK HERE to check what's available in the shop.
And here are notecard sets that aren't available to buy yet. I'm looking for a boutique that's interested in selling them. If you're interested, or know of any place that may be please comment below.

If You Tolerate This Then Your Children Will Be Next.

2010-01-16T15:15:00.000-08:00

Gravity keeps my head down
Or is it maybe shame?
At being so young and being so vain
And if you tolerate this
Then your children will be next

I previously wrote about the kind contributions other struggling artists have made to help the Haitian relief effort. Now it's my turn. I'm not as popular as they are, but I thought I'd give it a shot. I listed an Ebay auction of my 8 by 10 art print Hollow Eyed, whose proceeds will be going straight to the Red Cross. The bidding starts at a measly 99 cents- 90% off the usual price! If you can't afford to bid, please repost this blog or the auction link. As per usual the winning bidder wins a high quality photo print that comes in a protective acetate case, with the option of having it signed.
CLICK HERE to go to the auction.

Haiti And The Empathy Of Artists

2010-01-15T16:15:00.000-08:00

Part of this was crossposted via my Posterous blog. Pardon the double post. I just have to spread the word as widely as my little internet mouthpiece will carry.
I'd like to commend and highlight all the struggling artists who got their arses in gear to do things to benefit the relief effort in Haiti. Many of these people I interact with and/or keep tabs on via various social networking sites. They amaze me. Below are a few artists of note. Please check out their sales and auctions. 100% of the proceeds go to the Red Cross and other relief efforts.
The first is Christie Bastet. She's auctioning off one of her creepy art dolls. CLICK HERE to go directly to the Ebay auction. The bidding is still under $30!

Larry West made a beautiful poster in memorium of the devastation going on. You can see it for yourself if you check out his DEVIANTART page. He's urging people to donate directly to the Red Cross. The poster is free to download and redistribute.

Molly Crabapple, infamous for her work with the Philadelphia branch of Dr. Sketchys, auctioned off an original 3x5 pen and ink drawing via Twitter, (Take THAT those of you who refute the positive use of social networking sites!) raising $200.
As for my own efforts, I'm using this entry to try and get more exposure to these empathetic creatives' endeavors. Bid if you can afford it. Repost and spread the word if not. I'm planning on either working on a new original work whose sale will be going to relief efforts. Check back for updates.

2010-01-14T21:05:00.000-08:00

2010 has already brought excitement and letdown. I had planned to show work at a gallery opening at the Phoebus Gallery in Virginia at the beginning of the month, but the opening was indefinitely postponed. It MAY still happen in the coming months. That depends on what's going on with the gallery itself. If I hear word I'll post details when they come. I had wanted to keep it hush hush until I had plans finalized, but le sigh, "life happens when you're making other plans."
Continuing with a new sketchbook and a new year (Following the Indievisual sketch challenge), I have my latest rash of sketches from 2010 thus far:

I bid adieu with a photo of me sketching on the train.

Updated List Of Work For Sale

2010-01-06T12:34:00.000-08:00

Current list of original artwork for sale.

1. Title: "Stab"
Size: 18 by 24 inches
Media: Mixed media.
Price: $200 or best offer.

2. Title: "Stage Fright"
Size: 7 by 9 inches
Media: Colored pencil on paper.
Price: $50 or best offer.

3. Title: "Nature Of My Circuitry:
Size: 4.5 by 6 inches.
Media: Mixed media.
Price: $50 or best offer.

If interested please reply to this post or email me at heartshapedscarz@gmail.com.

Flash Blogging

2010-01-04T18:29:00.000-08:00

I just signed up for what I lovingly call a Flash Blog. I update with work-in-progress art pieces, sketches, things that inspire me, etc. Add me on POSTEROUS.

The State of Lovers and Firearms

2009-12-29T16:55:00.000-08:00

I'm down in Virginia for the next few weeks. There's a gallery in the area that's interested in showing my work for their re-opening reception. I'm meeting with people from the aforementioned gallery in the next few days. I'll keep everyone updated.
My other business matter I'll be attending to while down in the state of lovers and firearm's is this: I'm looking for artists/art collectives/galleries based in the Richmond/Yorktown/Hampton Roads/Norfolk area who would like to interviewed for an upcoming Unbound Culture article. I usually cover the art scene in Philly, but I'm taking advantage of my current location to write my first trans-state piece.
If you're in the Virginia area, and would like to either attend the reception OR are interested in being interviewed for a piece in the arts section of Unbound Culture please send me a note or reply to this entry.

Sketch Challenges.

2009-12-28T16:12:00.000-08:00

I was inspired by the IndieVisual blog to start sketching more often, and to start posting them more often on this much neglected art journal.
My first round of sketching is from a seasonal job at the mall: During the month of November, when things were slow, I filled up an old sketchbook.
Here are some of the sketches from that time period:

In early December I had an arting day with my fellow Clouds For Sale members (To see more from Clouds For Sale check out their Flickr Page.) Here is some artwork created from then:

Stay tuned for more information, including the finished version of a painting inspired by a Neutral Milk Hotel song and news of a gallery show in the works.

The Black Of The Blackest Friday

2009-11-26T12:28:00.000-08:00

Corporations aren't the only one's in need of revenue this holiday season. Us independent artisans and artists are participating as well. From 12:01AM to 11:59 PM on Friday, November 27th (that's tomorrow!) if you purchase something from my Etsy shop you'll receive a 25% discount with the coupon code "BLACK." I also just debuted my new line of naughty ornaments in the shop. If you're at work, please be advised.

Etsy
Buy Handmade
KirstenAshley

Now Accepting Commissions.

2009-10-27T18:43:00.000-07:00

COMMISSION WORK-
I am officially open for commission work. I am available for book illustration, book cover illustration, album art illustration, and fine art (such as portraiture, landscape, still life, surreal, etc) Depending on the size and detail of the piece, it should take about 2 weeks. If you're interested in a commission please contact me by emailing heartshapedscarz @ gmail.com (sans spaces) or posting a comment to this blog. I will be taking on up to 3 projects a month. Reserve your spot!
OTHER NEWS-
I have also fully embraced all that is artfire.com. You can view my shop HERE.
I have also finished a bookmark for an art trade with a Deviantart member. Here is my bookmark for my half of the trade:

New Piece

2009-09-28T14:02:00.001-07:00

"In Search Of The Poison Apple"
8.5 by 11 inches
Colored pencil on paper.
"And now Snow White lay a long, long time in the coffin, and she did not change, but looked as if she were asleep, for she was as white as snow, as red as blood, and her hair was ...as black as ebony."
- Grimms Fairytale's Snow White

If you're interested in buying the original or a fine art print please comment below.

Where Is The Bailout For Artists?

2009-08-26T11:57:00.000-07:00

I'm a little more starving than I previously was with the news of some horrible bank trouble today. (Despite a 79 million dollar bailout, the banks have some bullshit about how *they're* hurting from the recession, and feel the need to trump up asinine charges. Basically, I didn't spend more money than I had, and yet I still owe the bank money that keeps accruing. Add my school debt, paying out of pocket for my prescription for the medication for my anxiety disorder because of no insurance, with no job prospects to the list.)
In any case, if you're in the mood to own an original piece of art or a fine art print from me, I'd greatly appreciate it. Now more than ever. 8.5x11" Prints are $20 each or 2 for $30. I can take commission work for fine art, portraits, illustration. I make handcrafted bookmarks as well. Just post a comment or send me a message. Or if you'd even like to donate a dollar or two to the Kirsten-Is-A-Starving-Artist fund my paypal address is heartshapedscarz@gmail.com. (This would, of course, be reciprocated with thank you gifts of art in the near future.)I'm also taking offers if you see anything interested on my albums up at MYSPACE or FACEBOOK.

A few pieces for sale:
All prices exclude shipping

Hollow Eyed- $45 or best offer currently on hold for Daniel Pevar

Do It Yourself- 7x9" acrylic painting- $45 or best offer on hold for Tony Mallory

Nature Of My Circuitry- 4x6.5" matted original mixed media piece (Was designed for Alphane Reality Generator's album 'Nature Of My Circuitry') - $50 or best offer

8.5x11" fine art prints- $20 each or 2 for $30 (Full listing of prints at www.kirstenashley.etsy.com)

Sleeping In The Sky hand painted wooden trinket box (sealed with acrylic sealer)- $10 or best offer

Moon Tears hand painted trinket box (sealed with acrylic sealer)- $10 or best offer

Handmade Bookmarks- $5 each (I can make custom bookmarks as well)

Updates From The Handmade Market Show

2009-08-05T18:21:00.000-07:00

The morning of July 25th was the first Handmade Market event, hosted by and located at Memphis Taproom in Fishtown, Philadelphia. I was in attendance, along with about 50 other artists, writer's/editor's, graphic designers, jewelry makers, and even bakers. Highlights include mingling with other artists, especially my neighbor in vending, who recycled vodka and red stripe bottles into functional glassware (And his adorable puppy). I ate a delicious vegan cupcake from Deceptive Desserts. (This carnivore was surprised. That was the first vegan treat I've eaten that had any taste to it!)
Below are some photos of my space, among other shots from Handmade Market:

My leftover stock has been listed on my Etsy shop. I have prints, handmade bookmarks, and some vintage cookbooks.

Etsy
Buy Handmade
KirstenAshley

Handmade Market In Philly This Saturday

2009-07-24T16:28:00.000-07:00

I'll be selling artwork, prints, and handmade bookmarks at the Handmade Market tomorrow. It looks like it should be a fun event. It even got a write up on Philly2philly.com HERE
Here is the info for you Philly area people:
Handmade Market at Memphis Taproom

Saturday, July 25th, 10am to 3pm

2331 E. Cumberland Street, Philly
(Corner of Memphis + Cumberland)
215.425.4460
www.memphistaproom.com

Unbound Culture

2009-07-02T16:54:00.000-07:00

Despite internet ramblings to the contrary, I've always had an ardent love affair with words. The fact that I've begun to pick up writing again is simultaneously intimidating and thrilling. (Which is not to imply I think I'm prolific in any way.)
In fact, I've become a "staff writer" for the online zine Unbound Culture. My first piece, a story on Philly artist Jessica Izzaguire, is up now. Read it HERE.
Check out the rest of Unbound Culture. It's a great little zine.

A bit of cross promotion

2009-06-23T07:12:00.000-07:00

Uglyshyla and I are doing a bit of cross promotion. We're exchanging links to widen our audience.

Uglyshyla is a Louisiana based artist who makes spooky fine art dolls and reconstructed clothing, and does a bit of alt modeling. Here are a a few of my favorite modeling shots and dolls from her:

Find Uglyshyla:
www.uglyart.com
www.uglyshyla.deviantart.com
www.uglyartdotnet.etsy.com

If you're interested in cross-promotion with me get in touch with me!

Memphis Taproom

2009-06-11T20:29:00.000-07:00

I will be showing/selling some art at this event. I'll provide more details as the date gets closer.

The Mix Tape In Your Heart

2009-06-02T07:29:00.000-07:00

Or rather, mix CD. I adore making mix CD's with handmade art/liner notes. I only do so for people who either reciprocate, or appreciate it for the beautiful art of sharing music and sentiment that it is. (I've had people who disregard it or don't "get it", unfortunately.)
Recently, I had occasion to practice the art again. It's titled the "Dead Flowers Mix" ala the Rolling Stones song, so I made a cover from watercolor and dried flowers.

The Porcelain Doll's Black Void

2009-05-18T11:40:00.000-07:00

A fun little piece done in crayola.

Recycled Art

2009-04-24T10:59:00.000-07:00

This is a mirror I found from the garage at my house and revamped a while back. It was my sister's mirror she junked. Originally, it was painted white with butterflies on it. I sanded and repainted it to this:

Black Dove

2009-04-13T15:13:00.000-07:00

My first foray into origami:

I have horrible 3D spacial relation. The fact that this came out looking like it was supposed to impressed me!

Failed Attempts At Tea Painting

2009-04-09T21:24:00.000-07:00

I attempted to paint a wash on paper with black tea. In my head, it stained nicely, giving the paper an aged affect. In practice, not so much. The tea wasn't dark enough to stain the paper to my liking. It would have been a nice recyclable art material had it worked. (I get black tea when I order Chinese, but I don't drink tea.)
Instead, I took a bic to paper. And here is the end result:

Title- Burning Memory
Execution- Lighter, white drawing paper, colored pencil,micron pen.

Long Time No Blog

2009-03-31T21:24:00.000-07:00

Expect a more detailed update on my art happenings in the very near future. I've been on an experimentation hiatus.

Art Show in the Works

2008-11-27T16:16:00.000-08:00

I will be showing work at the West Philly gallery Borrowed Time. It's still in the works until this weekend when I receive word of finalization's. Until then I am posting the as details that I know below.

"The Time Came When The Risk To Remain Tight In The Bud Was More Painful Than The Risk It Took To Blossom." - A show on art & mental illness.
Artists- Kirsten Ashley & 1 TBA artist.
Date- Saturday, December 6th, 2008.
Time- TBA- Expected to be in the evening.
Gallery- Borrowed Time. 1202 S. 46th Street, Philadelphia PA

Everyone in the area come out! I'll be selling most of the work I have up. There should be a reception and all that fun stuff. Very laid back environment. Come show your support!

New Items At My Etsy Shoppe!

2008-10-22T14:58:00.001-07:00

Buy Handmade!

Etsy
Buy Handmade
KirstenAshley

My Art As A Book Cover!

2008-10-17T10:05:00.000-07:00

I have my very first book cover out at www.maverickduckpress.com for the book Pre-Elixer by J. Michael Wahlgren. Check it out at Maverick Duck Press and review it on Goodreads.com.

Sometimes The Artist Becomes The Subject.

2008-09-25T15:04:00.000-07:00

Here is a sketch of my friend and I at my booth during Big Art Show 11.It was drawn by Aaron Krolikowski of www.interview-press.com. More sketches from the show are up at the site.

Print Sale!

2008-09-22T17:10:00.000-07:00

I'm having a sale on art prints. One 8.5 X 11 inch print is $20. Buy 2 for $30. Each print comes with in an archival acetate bag, with the option of being signed.
Below are the prints available and the quantities left so far:

1. "Hollow Eyed" (2 available.)

2. "Flower Of Naivety" (2 available.)

3. "Stab" (1 available.)

4. "This Heavy Heart, This Heavy Jewel" (1 available.)

5. "I Give You My Heart" (1 available.)

6. "Cerulean Goddess" (1 available.)

7. "Shattered Mirror" (1 available.)

8. "Peacock Rides" (1 available.)

9. "Children Of The Ice" (1 available.)

10. "Faerie In Spooky Tree" (1 available.)

11. "Pods In The Abyss" (1 available.)

12. "Joined At The Heart" (1 available.)

To order prints CLICK HERE to send me an email (or copy and paste my email address: dawlheart@hotmail.com) with what prints you want and your zip code for shipping calculation. I will then send you an invoice via email.

Big Art Show

2008-07-24T18:58:00.000-07:00

I will be showing some new work and selling prints at Big Art Show this Saturday. If you're in the Philadelphia area come out and see me.

BIG ART SHOW PHILADELPHIA #11

Saturday, July 26th
@ Backseat Conceptions 941 Theater:
941 N.

Front Street - Philadelphia, PA (Northern Liberties)
Doors @ 7 ~ $5 (non-participants) ~ All Ages ~ 21 to drink

THIS IS THE LAST BIG ART SHOW FOR THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE! YOU SHOULD COME!!!!!

Bring your art! Bring your friends! Have some fun! Meet some artsy types! Listen to
some music! Free beer!!!

Everyone who wants to can come be part of the show! Only the people on the list are
guaranteed space, but if you'd like to bring a piece we will find room for you!

MUSIC!
-------
Sailboat!
Eric n’ Eric
Peer Pressure
Friendship Bracelet
Le Petit Champignon

ART!
--------
Bevan McShea
Mike Cicalese
Mara Wave
Ilya Stolyar
joe trotter
suelynne in the city
Krystal Heuser
damian mathews
travis applegate
Jolie Prom
pat aulisio
gabriel lopez
Mary L.

McCullough - Shadow Elements
Laura Facenda
Geekboy Press
Laura S.

Reinhard
elizabeth deegan
Monique Phillips
Aaron Weber
Bevan McShea (Citylinear)
mandy carmichael/ mandala glassworks
Katie Wieser
Tiffany J.

Davis
grandalto. com
Joy Hunsberger
@ari-ya apparel
Steven J. Martin, Jr.

Niaka Gruneberg
Stephanie Harvey
Emily K
Jill Sprague
Liz Krick

Kristen Margiotta
Andrea Ramirez
Visual Art Assassination
Terri Attridge
Kirsten Ashley
Eric Remer
Shirley Lightfoot
Cassandra Armstrong
Yummy Luv Press.

Jenn Kakoyannis

PLEASE TELL EVERYONE YOU KNOW!!! Help spread the word! We can't do this without you!!! Forward this mail! Repost on the internet! PLEASE!!!!

Thanks!

www. bigartshow. com

Black Liquid

2008-07-13T17:32:00.000-07:00

One of my pieces is featured in the online zine Black Liquid. It's on page 10 of the third issue. You can check out issue 3 by clicking HERE.
You can buy a hard copy that comes with an audio CD by emailing blackliquidsubmissions@yahoo.com or looking for it locally through this link.
In other news, I'll be showing work and selling prints at Big Art Show #11 in Philadelphia. Here is the info for that:

BIG ART SHOW PHILADELPHIA #11
Saturday, July 26th
@ Backseat Conceptions,
941 Theater
941 N.Front St. Philadelphia, PA
Doors @ 7 ~ $5 (non-participants) ~ All Ages

Original Art For Sale

2008-06-29T16:27:00.000-07:00

These paintings are for sale. If you'd like to purchase one click on the google checkout button below the image. If you have questions or wish to use an alternative payment method than credit card (check or money order.) send me an email to dawlheart@hotmail.com.

7 by 9 inch acrylic painting on canvas board.

My First Album Cover!

2008-05-16T14:22:00.001-07:00

I completed my first album cover for Alphane Reality Generator's album Nature Of My Circuitry.

You can check the album (and it's cover art) at these sites:
[x] Last.fm
[x] Alphane Reality Generator's main site
Listen to streaming tracks or you can download the entire album for free. Go do it. Stick it on your mp3 player of choice.

Venereal Kittens

2008-05-05T15:09:00.000-07:00

Has there ever been a better online zine name than Venereal Kittens? No, I think not. Whats more, I get to say "I'm on Venereal Kittens!"
CLICK HERE to see my pieces posted there. And be sure to check out the other artists, writers, and musicians up as well.

Print Purchase Feedback

2008-04-16T09:01:00.000-07:00

This post is for people who have bought prints from me directly to give their feedback. Please post a comment to let everyone know what you think of the quality and satisfaction from buying art prints/artwork from me.

Banner Exchange!

2008-02-19T17:26:00.000-08:00

I have a new set of banners for the banner exchange on my site as well as my myspace page. Feel free to grab one for your myspace, blog, or other web presence. If you take one please let me know. The "exchange" part is for other artists, crafters, writers, musicians, etc. I will feature your banner on my myspace profile in exchange for you posting mine in your blog, on your site, or wherever you have a web presence. It's a bit of comradeship for myself and other self representing artists. If your interested feel free to message me via myspace or post a comment on my blog.

Featured Artist

2008-02-19T12:41:00.000-08:00

I'm a featured artist on the Talent Database website. I was very surprised to get the email in my inbox today. I really wasn't expecting it. Needless to say, I have a smile on my face. My favorite part of the email was "Expect thousands of people a day to check out your talent listing; our editors think that you deserve it!"
Everyone should go check it out. Give me bookmarks and acknowledgments!

Oh My Blog!

2008-02-01T18:00:00.000-08:00

I've been Blogged!
Larry from the site www.findartbuyart.com has written an entry about my work showcased on his site.
"Tuesday, January 29, 2008
“Sometimes my mood takes control of my hand.”
How can you not look at the results of that hand? Today we are looking at the work of Kirsten Ashley. Her alias is Dawlheart and she can be found at http://dawlheart.findartbuyart.com/. She has a varied style inside the fantasy world. She displays an interesting eye for the elf/fairy/mermaid genre. I see this artwork adorning a young woman’s room"
Click HERE to see the full entry. And be sure to check out his blog, Art Fan. Oh, and to check out my presence on findartbuyart go HERE.

Site Updates And Whatnot.

2008-01-11T12:34:00.000-08:00

After a bit of a "hiatus" I'm reworking a few things with my web presence. I've been rebuilding a few sections of my art site. I'm adding a few things to the shoppe. I have some left over stock from previous art shows that I'm putting up for direct sale, as well as a few limited edition prints mounted on wood block.

Here are the wood mounted prints: