The Artist Behind the Easel

If you've followed me for any length of time, you know I'm usually the one behind the easel, behind the camera, or behind the scenes making things happen. A fresh profile photo felt overdue—even if being in front of the lens still isn't my favorite place to be.

The truth is, I've become more introverted as I've gotten older.

I love gathering people together, teaching workshops, creating experiences, and helping others discover their creativity. But if given the choice, you'll usually find me quietly working in the studio, sketchbook nearby, coffee within reach, creating something with my hands.

For those who may be new here, I thought this might be a good opportunity to properly introduce myself. My name is Ashley Ellis. I'm a fine artist, art instructor, creative entrepreneur, and lifelong maker based in Wisconsin. I'm also a wife and mother, and much of my life revolves around balancing creativity, family, faith, and business. Like many artists, my creative path hasn't followed a straight line.

Over the years I've worked as an educator, developed curriculum, coordinated ministry programs, taught countless art classes, built creative businesses, launched new products, exhibited artwork, and helped others find confidence in their own creative abilities.

Today, my work takes many forms.

Some days I'm creating paintings in the studio. Some days I'm teaching a watercolor workshop, hosting a private art event, or helping a child discover the joy of making something with their own hands. Some days I'm setting up tables, unpacking inventory, answering emails, planning future classes, photographing products, or preparing materials for upcoming events. And each day, I'm packing orders from our small Wisconsin warehouse and helping makers across North America discover new creative possibilities through JESIN and other specialty art materials.

No two days are exactly alike. What connects all of it is a simple belief: creativity matters.

Art has been one of the greatest gifts in my own life. It has helped me process difficult seasons, celebrate joyful ones, connect with people I may never have met otherwise, and discover beauty in unexpected places. That is why I teach. That is why I create. And that is why I continue building spaces where others can experience the same thing.

Whether you've attended one of my workshops, purchased artwork, followed along online, connected through ministry, supported one of my businesses, or simply stopped by to see what I'm working on next—thank you. Your encouragement, support, and friendship have allowed me to continue doing work that I genuinely love.

As I look ahead, I'm excited for what's coming next: new artwork, new workshops, new creative experiences, and new opportunities to help people reconnect with their own creativity.

But before all of that, I thought it was only fair to step out from behind the easel for a moment and say hello. I'm Ashley.... It's nice to meet you.