Artist Headshot

Ashley Heitzman


Portland, OR




I reflect on patterns, in my life, around the city and in nature. These patterns inspire the textures and shapes used through out my work.

About Me

I’ve aways been drawn to tactile things, especially those with a sense of history and texture. There is a mood created with a good pattern, something I look to bring into my jewelry designs as a I etch sheets of brass and silver using electricity. The textures lay a foundation and inspire the ensuing details that complete the narrative.

My artistic sensibilities reflect a life lived in cities and on two contrasting coasts.
I grew up in central Connecticut, moving to Philadephia to earn a college degree in metal-smithing from Tyler School of Art. Upon graduation I worked for small businesses honing my production jewelry skills, savoring the city, and plotting my next move. In 2011, in search of opportunity and change I moved to the north west with my husband, and our dreams to carve out a life together as craft artists. I feel fortunate to have found a community here in Portland, Oregon. I create jewelry full time, selling to my dedicated clients at art festivals throughout the region.

Examples of My Work

Fun Facts

  • Favorite food - grocery store hot case fried chicken
  • Hobbies - snuggling with my dog and 3rd grader
  • Awards - 2014 NICHE award for best in fashion jewelry
  • Side hustle - I co-founded and manage a workspace for artists in Portland
  • Priorities - getting in the water, I make sure to get in the ocean every year.

More About Me

When did you know you were an artist?

In third grade my class had a writing prompt asking us "What do you want to be when you grow up? The student next to me said Ashley, put artist!

If your life had a theme song

Hustlin' by Rick Ross

What do you want to learn next?

How to land a "real" job with a steady paycheck, benefits, and PTO!