Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Johnson.
Ashley, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I began my creative agency as a photographer and expanded my service library to include graphic design, creative consultation, social management and so much more. I am also a deeply interested in creative exploration around the home and in daily life. My daily practice of investing in the curiosities of objects and life around me has driven me into fine art, handmade housewares and jewelry for my business Cool & Brown, and a variety of other soul-satisfying interests.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
In my fine art practice, I commonly explore narratives that beg questions of the black community and the heart of intra-racial conflict. Oftentimes my struggle in my art is overcoming the realities of the answers I find at work. In running my business, the struggle lies in confronting existing structures and gatekeepers in the community and carving out space and opportunity for local efforts.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I began my creative agency as a photographer and expanded my service library to include graphic design, creative consultation, social management and so much more. My approach in everything I do, from creating informative Instagram stories about life, finance and creativity to hosting fine art experiences, is to be a resource. My business has grown to accommodate the local needs of entrepreneurs with a dedicated interest in businesses that are competing against gentrification and accelerated growth in the city.
My hope is that by helping businesses in under-resourced areas either gain access to or acclimate to creative resources at a more accessible price point, that they experience long term success. Sometimes this means I work with clients who are a generation removed from me, so the work is deeply consultative. My proudest moment as a business is actually one of the clients I have right now. She has a phenomenal idea for a shoe company and we are working through how creative drives modern commerce, and ultimately, the success of her business. Her learning and understanding is why I do this work.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
“Luck” is a magical way of saying “opportunity” or “privilege.” Luck or privilege can undermine the reality of what it takes to be available or qualified for the opportunity. My favorite quote in this vein is, “Your opportunities will always find you working.” by Myleik Teele.
That means, with your head down and your eyes trained solely on showing up for yourself and doing your BEST work for yourself daily, the opportunities will choose you. This is how I stay away from the comparison game, stay inspired and grow my business year after year. This is also how I’ve advanced in the corporate space—I’m a creative who also works a full-time job.
For most of my life, opportunities have been given to me based on how I’ve consistently shown up for myself and others. This interview is even a product of that! Someone admired my work or presence and recommended me for this opportunity. In my professional life, roles have been offered to be based on my work ethic— it all comes back to work! I’ve always believed in magic, but I also believe in showing up correctly in order to deserve the space you take up.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hiaj.co
- Email: iam@hiaj.co
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/hiaj
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/hiaj.co
Image Credit:
Images of me are taken by Christine Benz. Red carpet image taken by Kara Baker.
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