Born to Hang

Recently I was surfing Etsy looking at all of the lovely art that people have to offer and I can across an amazing shop filled with hand made, polymer clay busts. These busts are absolutely amazing! Her name is Ashley Rose and her shop is Born to Hang. I talked to the shop owner and she was kind enough to be my newest featured shop interviewee. So sit back and check out this talented new artist!

My name is Ashley Rose Strobelt. I’m 26 years old from San Juan Capistrano California. I have a partner of 6 years and we have a dog together named Riley. He is our mute little child.

Before I found my interest in sculpting, I was working full time as a back office manager / registered dental assistant and going to school to pursue my passion for dentistry. At the time, I believe I was burning the candle at both ends and I had a complete physical collapse. It put me in the hospital. I have been taking a break to focus on myself including my health for a year and a half. 

The Artist

1. How did you get your start in making busts and other items with clay and how long have you been doing this? 

November of 2010 I joined my friends to a local art and craft fair called Patchwork. This was my first art fair and I was overwhelmed by the talented vendors and their work. One artist stood out to me, Shing Yin Khor created these beautiful, fun sculptures of monsters. She blew my mind and inspired me to try sculpting December 2010. I finished a rather large octopus. After a short break, I began to play around with wall mounted caricatures May 2011.

Nowhere Fast Crow Skull with Roses Keepsake Jewelry Box

Freddy Krueger

2. Is working with clay something that came naturally for you or did you have to work at it and learn different and new techniques for sculpting?

I was surprised how quickly I took to sculpting. Because of my physical ailments, I started sculpting laying in bed. It began to be a type of therapy. Teaching myself, I have learned certain things the hard way but I enjoy every aspect of the learning process. I hope to take some classes in the future.

Hold the World at Bay

3. Where do you get your inspiration from?

Anatomy art is my favorite. Perhaps my background in the health field contributes to that. I also find inspiration from movies, poetry and the relationships in my life.

Put a Bird on It

4. How would you describe your creative process?

When an idea enters my head, I look at similar images that might refine my initial idea. Once I start, I’m excited to see where my imagination takes me. 

Frida Kahlo

5. Do you have a favorite item in your shop that you are particularly proud of either because it was a challenge or because of how it turned out? What is it and why? if you could include a link to it, I will post a pic of it with this question.

Edward Scissorhands is a memorable piece for me. I was very intimidated to attempt his scars, hair and facial features. I was actually pleased with how he turned out

Edwards Scissorhands

6. Are you working on anything new that you like to share with us?

I am just starting my own original artwork. A step away from the  familiar caricatures. I am currently working on an anatomy series and larger busts that I am really excited about. 

Meet Ana, the newest creation!

 

7. Do you do custom orders like if someone were to want a John Waters or Beetle Juice bust for instance... hint hint. 

Most of my orders are from word of mouth, but for those in the internet world who are curious, all you have to do is email me your idea, or create an Etsy account and there is a link on my shop page entitled “custom order”. I welcome very specific details wanted in a custom order. It makes it more fun!

Eddie Izzard "Cake of Death"

 

8.Where would you like to be in 10 years?

With my new found passion for art, I am setting both short and long term goals. My first goal is to be a vendor at Patchwork Art and Craft Fair. Then I would love to showcase a piece at the Sea No Evil Art Show Benefit for Sea Shepard. And I hope to one day have an art show and someones gallery.

Octopus Necklace

9. What advice would you give a new seller on Etsy?

I am actually a new seller on Etsy! As far as advice goes, don’t be  intimidated! Give thought to your shop name. It’s a great way to show case your work and very easy for buyers to use! 

Sid Vicious and Nancy Spungen

 

 

 

 

 

Born To Hang Facebook page is under construction. Keep an eye on Ashley Rose's  Etsy shop for details on a future Giveaway!