Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley.
Ashley, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My name is Ashley, but most people know me as Ashley Jelisa. I’m a 27-year-old creative artist from the Bronx, and my journey really came to life in 2019—the same year I became a mom to my beautiful son. I’ve always loved painting and creating, but tattooing is what truly opened the door to my entrepreneurial era.
Stepping into the tattoo world taught me so much about branding, independence, and what it means to build your own creative business from the ground up. As my work grew, I began traveling to tattoo conventions across different states, tattooing clients and vending my art. Those experiences motivated me to deepen my craft even further, which led me back to college. I’m now a full-time art student, expanding both my skills and my creative perspective.
Beyond tattooing and school, I also host paint nights and kids’ art workshops—spaces that allow me to share the joy of creativity with others. At my core, I’m inspired by art, nature, good food, and music. Everything I do is rooted in passion, growth, and the belief that creativity can truly transform a life—because it transformed mine.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Some of the biggest challenges I face are stress and burnout. I’m the type of person who always wants to achieve more than what’s physically possible sometimes, which definitely catches up to me. Managing scheduling and bookings can get overwhelming, and there are slow seasons in this industry where income becomes inconsistent. Creative blocks also play a role and can add to the pressure I feel.
Being a full-time art student adds another layer, because I’m constantly juggling multiple projects at once. And on top of everything, I’m a mom—so balancing my career, school, and motherhood is one of my greatest daily challenges. It’s a lot to manage, but these obstacles continue to teach me resilience, patience, and the importance of giving myself grace.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My work spans a range of creative services that allow me to connect with people through art in different ways. I specialize in tattooing, offering custom designs that reflect each client’s personal story. Beyond tattoos, I create commissioned and custom artwork, bringing clients’ visions to life on canvas and other mediums.
I also love building creative experiences, which is why I host paint parties and kids’ art workshops—fun, engaging spaces where people of all ages can explore their artistic side. For community events and celebrations, I provide face painting as well.
Outside of creating art, I also work as a model for brands and businesses, collaborating on visual projects that align with my style and creative energy.
Altogether, my work reflects my passion for creativity in all its forms and my commitment to making art accessible, memorable, and meaningful.
What are your plans for the future?
Looking ahead, I’m focused on expanding the creative spaces I’ve already started building. One of my main goals is to grow my workshops and secure a dedicated space where they can happen consistently. I also plan to bring on staff to help support these workshops so they can reach more people and run on a larger scale.
On the tattoo side, I’m working on expanding and refining my style—focusing on more specific designs that truly align with my artistic voice. I want to continue traveling, tattooing in new places, and building a broader clientele around the world.
Beyond that, I’m developing a long-term vision that’s deeply meaningful to me: creating a business complex in the Dominican Republic. This space will include an art center, a tattoo studio, and other creative workspaces—a hub where artists can grow, collaborate, and feel supported. It’s a big dream, but it’s one I’m committed to bringing to life.
Pricing:
- Tattoos – $150hr
- Paint Party – $40 per person
- Kids Workshop – $25 per kid
- Face Painting – $100hr
- Commission Starting Rate $150
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ashleyjelisa.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashley.jelisa/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashley.jelisa.9
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-medina-0a4b02355
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@ashley.jelisa
