Ashley May Heitzman: Crafting Stories Through Jewelry Design
Get to know artist Ashley May Heitzman from Portland, Oregon as she prepares to release her latest collection for our upcoming virtual art show!
To Be Featured In: Fancy That (Nov, 2024)
Learn More & View Work Examples: Artburst Studios Artist Profile
Ashley May Heitzman has always been drawn to textures and patterns, finding inspiration in the tactile elements of history and design. As a jewelry artist, she transforms brass, silver, and copper into unique, handcrafted pieces. Her work begins by etching sheets of metal using electricity, creating intricate textures that lay the foundation for her designs. From there, the narrative unfolds as she brings each piece to life, drawing from her love of patterns, whether inspired by ancient textiles or the modern city grid.
“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.”
Originally from central Connecticut, Ashley moved to Philadelphia to study metal-smithing at Tyler School of Art. After honing her skills in production jewelry and soaking in the energy of the city, she made a life-changing move to Portland, Oregon in 2011. Along with her husband, she embraced a new chapter as a full-time craft artist, finding a community that supported her vision. Today, Ashley’s jewelry is celebrated at art festivals throughout the region, where her dedicated clients seek out her distinctive, personal designs.
Ashley’s jewelry blends artistry and accessibility, offering pieces that are both casual and contemporary. She skillfully incorporates gold, freshwater pearls, and natural gemstones to balance and adorn her designs, making each one feel like a modern heirloom. Whether it’s earrings, necklaces, bracelets, or rings, her work is deeply personal, reflecting her artistic sensibilities developed from a life lived between two coasts.
Through her passion for jewelry making, Ashley has not only created a career she loves but also built a life that embraces creativity and independence. Her journey, from the third-grade classroom where her talents were first recognized to establishing herself as a successful artist in Portland, is one of perseverance, dedication, and artistic fulfillment.
Her latest collection of original pieces will be unveiled at our next virtual art show “Fancy That“, which opens on November 14th at 10am MST. The show will close on November 16th at 4pm MST. Be sure to create your free Collector Account early so you are prepared for the show open!
You can see more of her work at her official website.
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