ashley rodriguez reed ashley rodriguez reed

Who Gets to Be an Artist? Challenging the Labels That Hold Us Back

Who decides who gets to be an artist? At my recent Mandala Workshop, two participants—one who considered herself too precise and another who felt too messy—shared the same belief: “I’m not an artist.” This sparked a deeper question: Are we limiting ourselves with labels?

In this blog, I explore how creativity is a habit, not a title, and why we don’t need permission to create. Whether you’re sketching, writing, designing, or simply expressing yourself, you are already a creator. Don’t let outdated beliefs hold you back!

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You’re More Creative Than You Think

Discover how to embrace creativity during times of change. Learn six simple, mindful activities—like drawing, photo walks, and gratitude doodling—to unlock your creative potential and connect with your inner artist. Includes resources, books, and a free creativity quiz!

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ashley rodriguez reed ashley rodriguez reed

Creating Your Own Mandala: Get into Artful Flow

I almost failed college chemistry! But hey, I discovered the positive benefits of creating a mandala and so can you with this beginner-friendly guide using simple tools like a compass, pencil, and paint. Learn the meditative benefits of mandala art, supported by studies on stress relief and mindfulness. Explore the cultural history of mandalas and unleash your creativity with step-by-step instructions.

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The Art of UN-learning

Transform your creativity by unlearning limiting beliefs. Discover how to overcome creative blocks, embrace artistic freedom, and find joy in your art practice.

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ashley rodriguez reed ashley rodriguez reed

I’m a Collector of Junk…and it feels so good.

As a kid, I saved everything…even Dorito crumbs in my bed. Not on purpose of course. 

My junk drawer was my treasure chest, filled with things I just knew could be something someday. My tastes have evolved.

I’m no longer dumpster diving for fort-building materials—but that joy of discovering overlooked items and giving them new life? That’s still me. 

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ashley rodriguez reed ashley rodriguez reed

A Peek Into my Creative Process

Discover the step-by-step process behind my textile art creations, from selecting upcycled fabrics and arranging compositions to free-motion embroidery and adding painted details. Explore how intuition and inspiration from nature shape every piece in this behind-the-scenes look at my art-making journey.

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ashley rodriguez reed ashley rodriguez reed

Go Your Own Way

I remember dreading the phone call.

I was about to cancel a bridal shower at a local business and explain that the wedding was off.

The words came out:

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You can!

Have you ever felt like you're constantly striving to return to a simpler, more joyful version of yourself? We often forget the little things that used to bring us immense joy as children. Today, I want to take you on a journey through my childhood to see where my pattern inspiration comes from!

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ashley rodriguez reed ashley rodriguez reed

Home is where the heART is.

Does it feel like you’ve intentionally set the tone of your place? Besides cleaning our home, styling our home has a big impact on our mood. Below, I’ve got some great ideas to help you create a more artful home which will bring joy and comfort into your space. Think of it as an extension of self-care :)

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ashley rodriguez reed ashley rodriguez reed

When you have nothing to say…

I was told: you have nothing to say. In graduate school for art, that was one of the worst things you could hear. Art was supposed to communicate something right? Well, in this blog post, I reflect on that impactful criticism that I still think about to this day? Only the difference is my perspective and now...life experience.

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ashley rodriguez reed ashley rodriguez reed

Life Lessons from a Kimono

You might wonder, how could a piece of clothing, a kimono, teach profound life lessons? When I began my journey in Japan, my perception of kimonos was rather superficial. I admired their beauty but didn’t really understand all the intention that went into creating a Kimono. As I began to integrate them into my artwork, I discovered more of their essence, appreciating lessons that are woven, printed and stitched into the fabric…

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