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Interview with Honey the Artist
Honey The Artist, Embracing Her Roots, 2022, Acrylic on Canvas
Ashley Lee, a.k.a. HONEY THE ARTIST, is a Seattle native and self-taught painter and sketch artist with a passion for creativity and entrepreneurship. From her early days of painting at just 6-years-old, Ashley has honed her craft over the years, favoring acrylic and oil mediums.
As a result of some life experiences and struggles, the road to her artistic style was a path of many trials and finding solutions to redefine her artistic techniques. Perfecting her craft and creating a vision for each painting helped her reflect on what series of work to focus on, and most importantly, what message it sends to her audience.
Inspired by the history of art which includes popular movements such as the Harlem Renaissance and abstract expressionism, her work involves a blend of symbolism, abstract, and contemporary styles.
Now in her mid-twenties, Ashley is not only a talented artist, but a dedicated businesswoman making her mark on the art world one brush stroke at a time. As a rising creative, she hopes to continue to impact our Black and brown communities and spread the importance of African American art and freedom of expression through various methods of creativity.
Honey The Artist, Sands of Gold, 2023, Acrylic
As an artist, I am often compelled by the subtle nuances of real-life experiences and the echoes of silent moments that shape my inner thoughts and emotions. I invite the viewer to enter a space of contemplation and introspection where the layers of my work reveal an array of emotions, where love and loss coexist in a delicate balance.
My creative process is an intimate dance between a carefree and deliberate intention. I immerse myself in the raw materials of my craft—whether it be acrylic, oil, or mixed media—allowing the textures and pigments to guide my hand. Each stroke is a reflection of a moment, a feeling captured in time.
Thematically, my art dives into the realms of Black identity, love, and the intimacy of time. I am fascinated by the ways in which our personal histories shape our present selves, and how the fragments of our past linger within us, like shadows cast on a canvas. My pieces often feature fragmented figures and abstract forms, symbolizing the incomplete and ever-evolving nature of self-perception.
In a world saturated with noise and constant stimulation, my art offers a moment of pause. It is an invitation to listen to the quiet whispers within, to connect with the unvoiced emotions that reside within ourselves. Through my art, I aspire to create a visual language that resonates with the shared human experience, fostering a sense of beauty, resilience, and reflection.
Ultimately, my work is a testament to the power of silence and the beauty of the unresolved. It is a journey into the soul’s quiet places, where the echoes of our truest selves can be heard.
Read our interview below to get a glimpse into Honey the Artist’s creative journey:
How do you see the role of Black art evolving in the next decade, and what part do you hope to play in that evolution?
Black art has always been a powerful force in expressing identity, culture, and resilience. In the next decade, I anticipate Black art evolving even further, with a focus on amplifying diverse voices, challenging systemic injustices, and celebrating the richness of Black experiences globally.
As for my role, I hope to contribute by supporting and promoting Black art, sharing stories, and advocating for greater inclusion and recognition in the art world. Whether it’s through showcasing my work, facilitating collaborations, or promoting dialogue, I aim to play a part in fostering a more equitable and inclusive space for Black art to thrive and inspire all generations.
What advice would you give to young artists who are just starting out on their artistic journeys?
Like any skill, art improves with practice. Make time to create consistently, even when you don’t feel inspired. The more you practice, the more you’ll grow as an artist. Don’t feel pressured to conform to others’ expectations or trends, stay true to your own vision and values, and let your art be a reflection of who you are!
Honey The Artist, Nappy, 2024, Acrylic and Gold Leaf
What are some of the most memorable reactions or feedback you’ve received from viewers of your art?
Many viewers may express how deeply moved or emotionally affected they were by a particular artwork of mine, whether it’s a painting that evokes nostalgia, or a title or sculpture that elicits awe. Some viewers may even share personal stories or experiences that my artwork reminded them of, resonating with themes or imagery that are meaningful to them on a personal level.
The ability art has to evoke powerful emotions is the most memorable kind of feedback an artist can reflect on, and it brings me greater joy when it is personal to their life story.
In your journey as an artist, what has been the most unexpected experience, realization, or challenge?
One unexpected challenge I have encountered this year is the balancing act between my creative pursuits and the practical aspects of sustaining a career in the arts while working full-time. Facing obstacles like navigating financial instability, managing waves of self-doubt and rejection, and finding the time and resources to dedicate to my craft amidst life’s demands can be difficult.
Despite the hardships, this has taught me so much about the art world and how it often requires more than just talent and creativity—it also involves strategic networking, self-promotion, and navigating the industry dynamics.
How do you stay motivated and inspired to create new work, especially when facing personal or professional obstacles?
Staying motivated and inspired to create new work, especially during challenging times requires a combination of self-care, perseverance, and seeking inspiration. I like taking the time to acknowledge and celebrate my accomplishments, no matter how small. Recognizing my progress and achievements helps boost my confidence and motivation to keep creating during my periods of hardship.
Additionally, I like to focus on my physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This includes making time for activities that help me recharge such as exercise, meditation, spending time with loved ones, or pursuing hobbies outside of art.
Honey The Artist, Flower Child, 2022, Acrylic
How do you define success as an artist?
I believe success as an artist is about finding a balance between internal fulfillment and recognition that aligns with your own values and artistic journey. It’s about pursuing your passion, staying true to your vision, and continuously growing and evolving as an artist regardless of outside expectations or pressures. It’s about expressing yourself authentically and really pushing the boundaries of your craft that will ignite the bond between your greater purpose and fulfillment of your creative process, as well as the emotional connection others feel towards your art.
Are there any new mediums, techniques, or concepts you’re eager to explore in the coming years?
One medium that I am particularly interested in exploring more is watercolor! I find it extremely difficult to manipulate and critique, especially in comparison to oil, which I practiced with as my first medium during the early days of my art journey.
It is imperative to me that I continue to challenge myself and find new ways of creating and breaking any artistic boundaries. I always strive for better and am eager to learn when it comes to internal gain and education. After all, I am an artist, so why not?
How can we further grow and empower the Black art community?
Empowering and growing the Black art community requires a multifaceted approach that addresses systemic barriers and provides support and opportunities for Black artists to thrive.
We need to advocate for greater representation of Black artists in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. Encourage these institutions to diversify their collections, exhibitions, and leadership positions to better reflect the diversity of artistic voices.
By implementing these strategies and actively working to dismantle barriers and create opportunities, we can further grow and empower the Black art community, ensuring that their voices are heard, and their contributions are valued and celebrated within the broader art world.
What’s next for you and your artistry? What opportunities are you seeking and where do you see your creativity taking you?
As a professional artist with many hats to wear, I am inclined to continue evolving in various directions while seeking new opportunities. From participating and assisting with creative projects such as art walks, networking events, and volunteering with the art communities, the possibilities are vast.
Ultimately, I see my creativity and capabilities advancing to further augment and enrich the minds of creatives and non-creatives. For example, opening doors to instruct viewers how to paint or publicly speaking about my art journey. Primarily, my artistry is focused on cultivating room for growth, opportunity, and inspiration for everyone, and I believe this will contribute to the movement of diversifying our art communities!
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