Ashley Longshore, the self-taught artist often dubbed a young, feminist Andy Warhol, has achieved tremendous success by challenging the traditional norms of the art world. With her vibrant and irreverent pop art, she has created a brand that defies convention and invites everyone to embrace the joy of art.
Her recent venture, opening a massive showroom in New York City’s SoHo district at 43 Crosby Street, marks a significant milestone in her career. I recently sat down to talk with the highly talented artist who passionately shared her vision for this space, her journey to success, and her commitment to empowering aspiring artists.
A DREAM REALIZED
Longshore’s new “home” is more than just a showroom; it’s a creative hub, a sanctuary of art, whimsy, and madness, and a place for Ashley to celebrate the creatives she loves. It’s a stage for scholarship recipients to shine, a place for like-minded bohemians to gather, and a testament to the enduring artistic aspiration.
“I have done it the old-fashioned way: with blood, sweat, tears, and work, and that is an art in itself,” explains Longshore. “I want this space to be a beacon of color and pop but mostly a reminder for artists never to give up. A reminder that you will only fail if you quit. A reminder that the American Art Dream is alive and well in New York City and ready to be experienced and celebrated!”
A commitment to authenticity and positivity marks her journey to becoming a pop art icon. As an artist, Longshore’s vibrant personality shines through her bold, defiant, and cheeky art. She has found a way to carve out a unique path by blending art and entrepreneurship.
Collaborations with global brands like Porsche, Gucci, and Maybelline demonstrate her ability to infuse vibrancy and unexpectedness into established names. Some of her most recognizable pieces include larger-than-life portraits of fashion icons like Kate Moss, Anna Wintour, and Audrey Hepburn and her Trophy and Labeled series, which explore themes of money, power, and irreverent messaging.
BREAKING BOUNDARIES
In addition, the artist is also an author. Her second book, Roar! A Collection of Mighty Women, published in 2021, features inspirational portraits of culturally seminal women and has received critical acclaim.
A trailblazer in the art world, breaking boundaries and shattering norms is nothing new for Longshore who made history in 2018 when she became the first female artist to have a solo exhibit at Bergdorf Goodman in its over 100-year history. Along with the work she creates, she’s designed the retailer’s Palette at BG Café and served as IMG’s Artist-in-Residence for New York Fashion Week where her artwork has graced the fashion runways and inspired collections alike. “I have to be real, and I have to be vulnerable,” says Longshore. I must be authentic, and New York is my ultimate opportunity to do that on another level.”
In her book, entitled You Don’t Look Fat, You Look Crazy: An Unapologetic Guide to Being Ambitchous, she explains to readers that the name of the game is branding; it’s about value. She said, “I’m trying to turn myself into a Birkin bag.”
THE POWER OF INDEPENDENCE
Longshore’s journey began in Montgomery, Alabama, as a self-taught artist. Her work is strongly influenced by her experience of having grown up in the South. “I always knew that I was different,” says Longshore. “I did not want to be a little Southern trophy wife.”
Those early experiences, which included working various jobs and selling her art on scrap wood, helped establish a strong work ethic and tough resilience. For Longshore, self-belief, inner monologue, and patience in one’s journey are all contributors to finding success.
Her biggest fans are her family and Longshore credits her father for instilling in her the importance of independence. “After college, he said, you want to be an artist, you need to figure out how to be an artist. I’ll never let anything happen to you, but you’ve got to learn how to stand on your own two feet no matter who you marry or don’t marry,” recounts Longshore. “And that was the greatest gift he’s ever given me.”
With the recent opening of her NYC showroom, Longshore seeks to foster a deeper connection with collectors and admirers. From the brightly colored space to the warm faces inside, including Longshore’s, her vision has become a reality. Every inch of the space is designed with intention and a sense of joy. The atmosphere allows her to warmly ‘open the door and say, y’all come on in.’ Doing so will enable Longshore to bring that southern hospitality and warmth to people experiencing art.
THE CITY’S CREATIVE ENERGY
The decision to establish her showroom in New York City was driven by her love for the city’s creative energy. “New York is the greatest city in the world,” says Longshore. “This is the dream!”
In a world that often feels overwhelming and divisive, Longshore believes in the power of joy and positivity. She encourages people to let go of comparisons, celebrate their uniqueness, and find happiness in life’s small, simple moments. As Longshore continues to leave her mark on the art world, let this serve as a reminder that art is a celebration of the human spirit, a source of endless possibility, and a beacon of joy in a challenging world.
For more information on Ashley Longshore, visit ashleylongshore.com