Hi, I’m Lauren
I’m an award-winning, seasoned professional bringing a decade of design experience and a child-like enthusiasm to each project that crosses my path.
How I got here
I’ve loved storytelling for as long as I can remember, whether it was recreating my favorite Dr. Suess character or filling up page after page of superheroes fighting space villains with my 24 pack of Crayola crayons at the ready. Building these worlds made me feel empowered and believe in better.
That love of visual storytelling saw me through an art career in high school and college where I earned my design degree. After a decade of problem-solving, a component still felt missing, my hand to paper. The pandemic forced me to think about what I really wanted out of life, so I switched careers and countries. Go big or go home, right?
I love to tell stories with heart
Big hearts deserve bold brands. I combine design thinking with bespoke illustrative work for purpose-driven people who make their communities and the world a better place. It is my mission to shine a spotlight on those who show up for themselves, causing a ripple effect that extends outward to their circle and beyond.
Where I want to go
I’m interested in fiction and nonfiction stories that capture human triumphs and failures, themes of love, redemption and healing – facing our demons and conquering them. I love to learn how things work, and am open to opportunities in a variety of industries with a keen interest in neuroscience, health and wellness, addiction treatment, nature, cooking, home improvement, mental health, history and music.
Lauren Ashley Art
BioGraphy
Lauren Ashley is an American illustrator and designer, currently living in the UK. She earned her BFA in Graphic Design from the WVU College of Creative Arts. After a career in graphic design in higher ed and advertising agencies, she’s returned to her drawing roots. She continued her illustration education through a mentorship with Visual Arts Passage and has created illustrations for restaurants, businesses and apparel companies.
Combining her design and illustration skills, Lauren uses a mixed media approach, incorporating traditional materials with digital processes including pastels, colored pencils, cut paper and gouache. She has a keen interest in visual storytelling, exploring narrative and mood through expressive subjects and environments with color, light and texture experimentation.
When she’s not creating, you can find her exploring the Scottish highlands with her husband, soaking up inspiration from her natural surroundings.
In the Press
Dunblane schoolgirl, 11, has first Christmas book published
Thistles Christmas Adventure Book Illustration
Stirling, UK
2023
Accomplishments
Walmart Community Mural Program Artist
Fairmont, WV
2023
Merit Award, Healthcare Advertising Awards
Western Maryland Health System Website, BlaineTurner Advertising
2019
AAF-WV American Advertising Award, Gold ADDY Award “Bridge Day 2015”, Visit Southern West Virginia, Digital Relativity
2015
AAF-WV American Advertising Award, Silver ADDY Award “REAL. West Virginia”, Wild, Wonderful West Virginia, Digital Relativity
2015
Marcom Gold Award, “WVU Alumni Birthday Greeting,” Motion Graphics WVU Alumni Association
2014
Magnum Opus Gold Award, “Best Calendar Design”
WVU Alumni Association
2012
Let’s Connect
Are you ready to make something totally kick-ass together? Get in touch or learn more about how we can work together.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who do you prefer to work with?
I see every project as an opportunity to collaborate. While I respect any practical constraints, I do best when given some free reign. It is my aim to combine my illustration and design skill sets into one ooey-gooey magical concoction. So anyone who is looking for an adventurous, playful and bold brand will find themselves at home!
I don’t need a new brand, but have ongoing needs. Can I hire you on retainer?
If it seems like a good fit, I would be happy to discuss an ongoing partnership. Shoot me a message.
How many clients do you take on at a time?
Being a small one-person shop, I try to limit the number of new clients I take on to ensure I’m delivering a high-quality product and experience to all the lovelies I work with. I take on 1 – 2 clients per month.
What’s your rate?
Depending on the project, I typically offer flat rates but if the scope of your project is unique, I am happy to discuss a custom project scope. Shoot me a message on my contact page.
Do you offer printing services?
I don’t typically offer that as part of my services outright but have many years of past experience in project management and am happy to work with vendors and printers should that best suit your needs.
Can you make me a website?
Sorry, I do not offer web design as a service. I am focused on bringing design and illustration together to create one-of-a-kind, heartfelt brand experiences for bold and passionate humans.