We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Powell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
The reason I decided to pursue an artist career was to help someone find the safe space in art like I found. I struggled with mental health for a long time and I met an amazing art therapist who helped me find my way back through art. This is something I want to be able to show others how to do. 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I work as a part time photographer currently and I’m a full time student at Texas Tech University. I also do a lot of personal art that I give to others and sometimes sell. Art for me is a creative way to express myself. I want to show people that beautiful things can come from dark places. I want to work with others to help them find a way to use art when they are panicking, overwhelmed, or anything else they are struggling with. I am most proud of the way I myself have learned to use creative expression. It was very hard to get to this point and it took several years of over coming challenges with myself to get where I am today. I want the world to know that it’s okay to struggle and it’s ok to find a way out of it that others might not understand.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Coming to Lubbock for a week, there are several fun things you can do. There is a little graffiti park near down town you can go get some amazing pictures at and even create your own art on the walls, but I recommend you do not go at night. If you come on the first Friday of the month, you can attend the First Friday Art Trail and support some amazing local artists. There are also food trucks there with some of Lubbock’s best food around. To see some of the nightlife, I would recommend Broadway Street where there is a bar walk. For the best Mexican food in my opinion, I recommend Cancun Mexican restaurant on 82nd and University.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have to give a shoutout to the amazing counselors at Skyland Trail and the counselors at Texas Tech University who helped me when I was struggling. I also want to give a special thanks to my mother, Donna Bilbery who never left my side. I have also found a great recovery community at Texas Tech University that helps me everyday.

Instagram: ashley_powells_art1953
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-powell-77b3761a2/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Every-Second-Photography-576220149559368

Image Credits
Shea Noblett, Grace Ann Boudreaux, and Monica Michelle Photography

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