Diana Ashley

Diana Ashley is a vibrant New York City artist and educator who sees art as a profound, joyful journey that should be accessible to everyone. With a philosophy centered on creative freedom and personal fulfillment, Diana empowers her students to explore their artistic voices and find deep satisfaction in their creations. Her teaching blends a rich background in art with a relentless curiosity and drive, guiding students to unlock their full artistic potential both in the classroom and beyond.

Diana’s love for art began in childhood and has evolved into a fulfilling career. For the past two years, she has also developed a deep passion for pottery—drawn to the meditative, hands-on nature of working with clay and the way it encourages patience, presence, and creative experimentation.

Recently, she has channeled her energy into creating commissioned works and supporting special needs children through artistic expression, navigating their unique experiences with creativity and empathy. Having taught students across a wide age range—from elementary through high school—Diana excels in mentoring young artists and helping them build impressive art school portfolios.

Her artistic mediums include graphite drawing, acrylics, watercolor, gouache, oil painting, printmaking, and now pottery—showcasing her versatile skills and deep artistic knowledge. A highlight of Diana’s artistic practice is observing and capturing the nuances of human interactions through drawing.

In her classroom, she stimulates critical thinking and fosters curiosity about diverse art styles. Diana’s teaching approach is anchored in engaging discussions about art, exploring why certain styles captivate us. She is excited to bring her knowledge and boundless passion to her students, inspiring them to see the world through a creative lens and guiding their artistic journey with enthusiasm and kindness.