Meet Ashley Bliss

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ashley Bliss. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ashley below.

Ashley, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?

For me personally, I feel like I was born to be an optimist, having Bliss as a last name. My parents shaped my positive outlook on life I believe. No matter the situation, they stayed calm and composed, teaching us to stay optimistic, trust things would hopefully improve if they needed too, and always appreciate what we had. I was taught hard work will enable you to accomplish your goals.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

I’m a graphic designer and a photographer, who codes a little too on my works website. I work full-time for a private country club in Rancho Santa Fe, CA. I produce all the printed collateral for all departments of the club, create the monthly newsletter, photograph events and property at the club, and help maintain the club’s website. My job keeps me extremely busy and I am constantly learning new skills, which I love. At my job there are numerous departments who come to me for their creative needs, and I love fulling every single request to the best of my abilities! I would share some of the work I have done at the club over the last almost 2 years but it is a private club and I want to respect their privacy.

In addition, I freelance for two companies: a restaurant in Del Mar, CA, and an international construction company. Between those free lance gigs and main job, my schedule stays pretty full. In addition to work, I’ve been pursuing a passion project photographing every U.S. National Park. Since starting in 2016, we have visited 54 out of the 63 parks. Alaska will be the last big leg, and we can’t wait. My plan is to design a book of the parks one day with my photos and just tell people how we did it, our story. I love photographing people, landscapes, and anything that catches my eye.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

In hindsight, I’d say three crucial things that effected my success are:
Work Ethic: My parents instilled in me the belief that if you want to accomplish something, you need to work hard for it. Don’t look for someone to do a job you can do yourself, just do it, and do it well.
College Years: My time studying fine art in college was the foundation of the adult I am today. Immersing myself in sculpture, printmaking, painting, ceramics, drawing, photography, and numerous art history classes not only taught me valuable artistic skills, it taught me that all art is inspired by something or someone else and that there is value in learning art history. I was in a world where everyone exchanged ideas, offered critiques, and inspired each other, and I had 24-hour access to the darkrooms for years via my classes. Those days were incredible, I cherish them.
Curiosity & Adaptability: I have a deep curiosity about life which keeps me constantly trying to learn new things. In the Art & Design field, where programs, trends, and industry standards evolve rapidly, staying open to change is essential I feel.

My advice for those just starting out is to trust the process and work hard to achieve your goals. Every job one has along the way is a stepping stone closer to your goal, offering valuable lessons that help shape your journey. If you put in the time and effort and stay open to learning, things will align when the time is right. I believe the universe has a way of matching where you are in your career with the opportunities that are meant for you. Stay patient, work hard, and believe that your moment will come.

What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was allowing me to discover who I wanted to be on my own without any pressures from them. When I decided in my freshman year to major in fine art, they supported my talent and education in every way. They never once tried to change my mind and instead gave me unconditional love and support as I pursued a creative career. Having them tell me they’re proud of the work I do as an artist is the most rewarding feeling!

Contact Info:

Image Credits

All designs and photos were made and taken by Ashley Bliss.

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