Ashlyn Metcalf is one of my oldest friends - we met in fourth grade at church camp. Because I've known her so long, its been amazing watching her grow and flourish as an artist. Ashlyn is an Oklahoma native and art instructor as well as painter and sculptor. She creates some really rad pieces. Enjoy getting to know her below.
A: My name is Ashlyn Metcalf and I live in Tulsa Oklahoma. By day Im a high school art teacher and by night I am a painter and part time sculptor. I have a Bachelors in Art Education from Northeastern State University. I studied under Sylvia Nitti and Lance Hunter. Painting is my passion and I am the happiest working hard on paintings all day.
-at what age did you start seriously exploring art and thinking about making it a career?
A: I grew up in a rural area and when I was a kid. I played outside all day and did art projects. Both my grandmothers and my Mom always had me doing crafts and they are very artistic ladies. So I grew up making things and continued this as a teenager. I would often stay up late in my room painting and drawing.
When I was 16 I had spine surgery and the recovery was difficult for me emotionally. I remember renting the Frida movie and watching it. I identified with Frida and her struggle. She became an idol and role model for me. I remember saying to myself: I want art to be my life, I need art to live. I knew from then on I had to have painting in my life everyday.
In college I enjoyed my art studies so much. I was so hungry to learn everything I could about art and I still feel the same today. Hungry to do as much art as possible.
-what are your favorite materials to work with?
A: As a painter I prefer acrylic and I have been painting on discarded library books for a few years. I work on canvas too and I like going back and forth between the two surfaces.
Occasionally I like to paint in oils. I also do a little ceramic sculpture on the side.
-what do you think is the purpose of art in general and your art specifically?
A: Such a difficult thing to put into words! I think every one is hungry to express themselves and feel understood beyond language. Also theres a connection and a joy in making something-working on a goal and the satisfaction of your ideas coming to fruition.
In terms of my art, I suppose I have an urgent need to get my ideas and stories out of my head. I am the happiest working on a project, if I dont have anything to work on I get grumpy.
-who are some of your favorite artists?
A: Artists from the past: Frida Kahlo of course, John William Waterhouse, Albrecht Drurer, Egon Schiele. And people working today: Soey Milk, Kent Williams, Martin Wittfooth, Eric Joyner...I could go on for hours!
-where do you gather inspiration?
A: Lots of places but lately its been from nature and philosophy.
-what is your process like?
A: Each painting has its own unique way of coming about. I like to use photo reference for elements of realism. Preferably photos I took. The last year or so I have tried to keep my backgrounds loose and unplanned. I have been experimenting more.
-Imagine your future 10-15 years from now. What does it look like?
A: I would really like to travel more with my art, paint large murals, in far away places. But basically just the continual pursuit of art development and learning. And not taking things too seriously.
-Tell us three things about yourself unrelated to art
A: I am a total nerd for true crime shows. I am obsessed with drinking Kombucha. I am not very good at taking care of plants but I try.
-if you wren't an artist, what do you think you'd be doing right now?
A: If i wasnt an artist or art teacher, Id probably like to be a private investigator or park ranger/river guide.
-what advice do you have for aspiring artists?
A: Just keep making art, keep developing yourself, and keep a journal or sketchbook around.
There ya have it, folks! If you want to get to know Ashlyn better or purchase any of her art, you can find her on
IG: Ashlyn_Metcalf
and her website
