The Profile: Ashley Chew
Living multi-dimensionally is an understatement for Artist, Activist, Writer, and model Ashley Chew. The NYC-based multi-hyphenate is obsessed with beauty as much as she portrays it in her artwork.
Chew has created exceptional artwork for brands such as Zadig & Voltaire, Tommy Hilfiger, Nike, Coach and more. The Indiana-native moved to New York City to pursue Media in Fashion nearly 6-years ago. “I have always been an Artist, even with all of the ventures I’ve been fortunate to take, Art kept pulling me back. This time I’m staying.” Ashley is breaking barriers and creating timeless pieces that are not only groun dbreaking but shaping and defining cultural awareness.
Fast forward to current events tackling political and social issues worldwide, Chew has been at the forefront of demanding representation for women of color all over the world in every field. From her coveted viral Black Models Matter bag displayed on Zac Posen's runway in 2015 she has undoubtedly spoken up for inclusion and diversity throughout the beauty, fashion and art industries.
On the brink of Fashion Month we sat down with the Diversity and Inclusion Activist to talk about bringing her inspirations to life, how she conducts self-care in 2021, and how she sees the importance of beauty standards through her life portrayed by her artwork.
Her introduction to the industry as an artist
“In 2015, frustrated with the lack of diversity at castings, and in hair in makeup during New York Fashion Week. I painted the words "Black Models Matter" across my handbag.” The statement went viral and was publicly supported by Zac Posen, June Ambrose, Iman, Bethanne Hardison and more.
“At the time, runways were less than 10% diverse; now it is at 57%. The hashtag still currently trends at nearly 100,000 on Instagram. It's a way to find and celebrate Black beauty. The handbag is currently on view at the "Voices of Fashion" exhibition in Utrecht, The Netherlands, and will go into permanent collection in Fall 2021.”
MB: Talk to us about your self care regimen and how you decompress after working on your art.
AC: My self-care regimen is critical, as I am always painting. I am constantly hand-washing along with my brushes. I use Chanel La Créme Le Main to keep moisture in. I keep a fresh manicure at all times, as I am still a working model. Art is rough on the hands. To decompress at night I use Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Mask, which I keep in my fridge. I also use the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask and Bioderma Hydrabio Mist throughout the day. To wind down, I make ginger tea, meditate, and braid down my natural hair with Mizani Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner. Taking care of myself reflects in the art I produce and I think it’s very importantto feel centered when diving into work.
MB: What major issues do you come across in the beauty and fashion industry that need attention?
AC: In the past year we have witnessed a global pandemic, LGBTQ+ rights at risk, the Black Lives Matter movement, and Stop Asian Hate. With September being the first in-person New York Fashion Week in over a year, Have we really learned our lesson on Diversity? On ethnic Hair and Makeup? Or was posting Black Squares to save face? The growth, community and restructuring has been incredible, but we have a long way to go.
MB: What is your favorite project you’ve been a part of to date ?AC: My favorite project to date has been creating a piece for Spike Lee’s “She’s Gotta Have It” on Netflix. Lee is such a Historical Director. I painted a map of Africa for the main protagonist Nola Darling’s room. I actually loaned the piece, I wanted to keep it, People thought I was crazy. I still refuse to sell it. I look at the painting everyday like “How cool is it that I got to be a part of Nola Darling’s journey and Spike Lee’s vision”.
MB: You’ve traveled to many parts of the world. Which places or cultures have left an impression on the way you think about beauty?
AC: There’s so many unique and stunning people in this world. Lagos, Nigeria has been my favorite for beauty. The women take such great care of themselves and their families. Nigerians are always so glam without even trying!. The eyebrows are always impeccable, how is everyone so flawless? Most importantly Nigerians have the most incredible energy. Finding out my bloodline was part Nigerian was quite a treat. Traveling to Lagos was the best time of my life.
MB: Favorite quote for inspiration?
AC: “Wealth is of the heart and mind, not the pocket” - Pharell Williams
MB: What’s your favorite go to scent?
AC: My favorite scent is a tie! One scent I actually made myself at Olfactory NYC or Gucci Mémorie.
MB: Talk about your views on the color palette and how you utilize it through your daily life.
AC: Not to sound like a typical Artist, but I have favorite colors for everything! I’m a fiery red Aries. But I love royal blue furniture. To wear; Crisp white shirts, green dresses and bright heels. In my paintings you will find a lot of aqua and browns. My beauty picks are usually big gold hair and nude lips like Pat McGrath Mattetrance Lipstick in Femmebot. It’s a running joke with friends (& Instagram followers) that I’m “baby Beyoncé”. I love to glow and look like honey!
MB: How does your art reflect the way you see the world through your eyes?
AC: Art impacts the way I see the world as I am constantly looking for inspiration. I stare at strangers on the train in New York City. Their features strike me as a painter.. A beautiful garment I see walking down the street. The sunrises and sunsets over the skyline. Graffiti in Soho. Everything is Art if you allow yourself to see it.
MB: What business functions are critical to the success of your job ?
AC: Personality is the most important business function to me. You can have all of the money, fame, resources and platform. If you aren't connecting with your consumer, telling a story, or are relatable; it can be difficult to grow. We consume so much online. People remember the person behind the business, the person building everything. “I love your energy” is a higher compliment to me, than “I love your work”.
MB: When do you feel most confident?
AC: I feel most confident at home painting. I’m sure of myself. I’m bare. I’m working. With modeling you come across people that are unsure of you. Unlsure for the booking, unsure as “the look”. But at home, in my element I am sure. I am at a place where I know myself, and I would like to introduce the world to her.
At home with Ashley Chew by Marisa Bryant
