Ashley Morken
Photos Provided By Tin•ker
For our December pick we’d like you to meet the crazy talented Ashley Rieck of Tin•ker
here in Fargo, ND!
Tell us a bit about yourself
I spent most of my childhood making messes and crafting. My mom is a very creative woman and was always painting on our walls or making something out of nothing. She really encouraged creativity and tried to get us to express ourselves creatively. Then you have my grandma, she owned a nail salon in upstate New York and every chance I got to visit was magical! This place was full of creativity and I will never forget sitting there watching my aunt and grandma paint beautifully intricate images on such small canvases! It still blows my mind.
Describe what you make under Tin•ker?
With Tin•ker, I create one of a kind Alcohol Ink paintings as well as travel around to teach creative workshops. Starting in January Tin•ker will be available to travel out to smaller communities to teach private or public workshops. If you are interested in hosting an event or know someone who would be interested please feel free to email me at tinkerstudio2019@ gmail.com Tin•ker
Where is the name from?
A few years ago my best friend gave me the nickname Tinkerbell. I guess you could say it stuck and has become a permanent part of who I am. It also perfectly describes what I do most days, tinker around and see what I can make.
You have worked with a huge variety of mediums and tools – what are some of your favorites currently to create with?
I think I have worked with every medium out there (for better or worse) and I have loved most of them! haha. I love alcohol ink painting first and foremost, so if I have downtime, I’m probably doing that. I also love to hand letter/doodle, make string art, embroider and spend as much time as possible in my woodshop. What is one of your favorite pieces you’ve created? A few years ago I got to work with some art students at New Tech High School in Sioux Falls, SD. We spent three days creating two huge staircase string art installations. I absolutely love working with kids and would love to do more pieces like this.
What is your favorite thing about having a maker business?
I love the creative freedom that comes with having a business of my own. I love being able to show people, who think they aren’t creative, that they truly are.
What is the most challenging thing?
Saying no. I am not great at saying no. I love helping people find their creativity in using the skills that I have to help them bring their project to life. While it can be challenging I will always want to help when asked.
What is a word that best describes you?
Passionate. I’ve always loved the saying “Some people confuse passion with crazy. Let me be clear, I am bat sh*t passionate.” Yep, that pretty much sums it up these days.
How do you stay inspired to create?
I try to surround myself with people who love what they do. I also find it very important for me to take artist dates with myself. Getting out of my daily routine is usually where I find the most inspiration. I have also always been a very vivid dreamer and take a lot of inspiration from them.
What advice would you have given yourself 10 years ago?
Relax! Things don’t have to be perfect.
Where can people find your work?
I am currently in the process of creating a new website, so, for now, you can find my work at Unglued and on FB or Instagram.
How can our community support you as a maker/artist?
Following Tin•ker on Facebook and Instagram and signing up for a creative workshop would be amazing. I would love to see new faces in classes and meet new people! Also, shopping local is the best way to support any maker. When you purchase something from a local artist you are immediately making a direct impact on their life. As makers we put our heart and soul into what we create and having someone love it so much they purchase it really is a humbling feeling. Shop local, support local.
What are you excited for this holiday season?
ALL THINGS CHRISTMAS! I am pretty much Buddy the Elf this time of year! Loved ones, cookies, snow angles, ice skating and snuggling are THE BEST! I must admit, shopping is not my most favorite thing to do, but I do LOVE wrapping and decorating the gifts after.
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etsy.com/shop/ArtbyAshleyRieck
Instagram: tinkercreates
