Animal Instinct

Ashley H.

Ink, Graphite,

• Artist Statement

  Organic shapes and the graceful movement of flowing lines have always captivated me. In every piece, I strive to distill the intricate patterns of nature, whether capturing the delicate imprint of foliage or transforming the contours of the human form into dynamic, rhythmic designs. By juxtaposing densely woven lines with expanses of untouched space, I create striking visual contrast reminiscent of sunlight filtering through a canopy of leaves, casting intricate shadows below. Capturing a sense of balance and groundedness in the natural world is my aim. This piece depicts humanity as an organism in a larger ecosystem, inseparably tied to the earth. We are sustained by it and will, in turn, nourish it after death—a kinship stronger than blood. By viewing ourselves as superior to nature, defying age and death with technology and filling the world with machines, we upset the natural order that sustains vitality.

• Creative Statement

  To me, creativity is being able to serve as not only a conduit for the beauty that I see in the world, but giving it a part of myself and molding something new. It is breathing life into emptiness while giving myself and others permission to speak their truths.