Looking for a quirky and creative artist to brighten up your day? Look no further than our interview with A Purple Dream World. Ashley Swihart is the artist behind these enchanting, surrealistic paintings and stunning woodturning. From their creative journey to what makes their pieces special, you'll get a glimpse into the inner workings of A Purple Dream World. So, buckle up and prepare to be inspired by this amazing artist!
Tell us about the products you make.
I make surrealist paintings, colored pencil drawings, decorative hand-painted skulls, and woodturning.
What is your favorite product that you create?
It's hard to pick a favorite, but I have a sweet spot for the surrealism I do, because I'm fascinated by that art movement, and each piece contains something meaningful to me in it.
Is there a story behind your shop/business name?
I've always loved the color purple since I was a child, and even my house is mainly purple decor. Growing up, I was nicknamed 'purple girl,’ so it seemed natural to name my passion after it.
What does your art-making process look like?
For the art, I don't plan my paintings or drawings; I freehand everything and don't use tools to assist. I feel that it adds a truly artistic touch when every stroke comes from my heart.
What led you to start your business? How did you get started, and how has the journey been so far?
I started my business because I had so many pieces of art just stacking up at home, and I was too shy to put myself out there and sell it. This Bash is a big step for me personally because it's introducing my art to the public.
How did you get to where you are today?
I've been doing art since I was a child. I even got in trouble countless times in school for drawing, and not completely paying attention to the lesson being taught. I went to Savannah College of Art and Design, which was one of my life's best decisions. I learned so much from other artists and was inspired by all of their talents. I took away a lot of encouragement to follow my heart and do what I love.
What was the first item you ever made/sold?
I made a massive ocean-inspired sculpture out of clay, painted in whimsical colors, and actually won the State of Ohio Youth Exhibition Governor's award for it. I was blown away because I had never been called a 'good artist’ or encouraged to push myself up to that point. A private party purchased it after it had been displayed in the State Capital building.
What makes your pieces special?
I put A LOT of myself into my pieces and do a lot of pieces that address issues such as mental health, which is a cause near and dear to me. I only make my art with love and passion, and I hope it can make someone smile or identify with the content.
Which of your pieces do you think make for a meaningful gift?
All of my pieces are made with such thought and deliberately created for a reason. I think that thoughtfulness and love hopefully translate to any piece.
How do you recommend using/styling your pieces?
I recommend blending the artwork with curiosities or oddities and quirky decor. The woodturning is more classic and can fit right into a natural vignette.
Describe your workspace.
My 'craft room' has basically exploded all over my house, as I sometimes like painting by the windows for light. I also have a full wood shop in my garage where I do the woodworking.
What do you love most about running your business?
I love that I'm finally following my passion, and I hope that gives my daughter the inspiration to do what she loves. I also like connecting with a creative community, and it makes me feel loved and accepted.
What inspires you, and how do you stay inspired?
I get inspired by life events and concepts in my artwork. I get visions in my head that I just have to get out onto the canvas or paper. I stay inspired because my art is my refuge. If I'm going through something, art is my therapy and makes me whole again.
What do you spend time doing when you aren't running your business or creating?
I have a full-time job, and I'm a single mother, so I stay pretty busy in the off times.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received as an artist?
Never apologize for your art. That resonated with me because art is so personal, and nobody should feel they aren't good enough.
How do you overcome creative blocks?
I face a lot of these in my life as a full-time working single mom, so I ask my daughter to draw with me for fun, and I feed off of her creative enthusiasm and energy, and feel like, 'I can do this'.
What are the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I was told for the majority of my life that I wasn't a good enough artist, and people would be critical of my style and content. I never let that discourage me, because art is my love, and it didn't feel right in my heart to ever stop creating.
Why do you think people are drawn to your style?
I think they like the quirkiness and fantasy of the surrealism. For the wood turning, I believe it's the craft itself since it's becoming more and more rare to find those that still woodturn. My father and grandfather taught me how to woodturn, and my grandmother taught me how to paint, so I think those strong family roots also add to the appeal.
Who are your biggest artistic influences?
Hands down, Rene Magritte. His paintings are so curious and invoke so much conversation and speculation in each piece.
What couldn’t you do without?
I couldn't do without my daughter. She's my biggest supporter and inspiration to keep on going.
If you had a superpower, what would it be?
I wish I could fly. I'm scared of actually flying on an airplane, but just being able to fly myself, seems so freeing.
Is your shop offering anything new/special/different at the Bash?
I'll be offering a new collection of hand-painted skulls. Mainly inspired by Dia de Los Muertos, but also fun-free hand designs.
Anything else you'd like to share with us?
I also have a rescue dog that is part of my family. I'm passionate about animals, and she's such a delight to my family. Her name is Blanch, as in Blanch from the Golden Girls, LOL! One of my favorite shows.
That’s a Wrap!
A Purple Dream World, thanks so much for joining us at the 2023 Spring Bash!
Be sure to visit A Purple Dream World and follow them @a_purple_dream_world!