Q: Can you tell us a little about how you got started in art?

A: I started art when I was a little girl - probably as soon as I could pick up a pencil. I was really shy as a kid, so art was my voice and a way to connect with people without having to speak. It brought me closer to myself and to others. I fell in love with it early on and never let it go.

Q: Where do you find inspiration for your work?

A: I find inspiration in connecting with people, seeing what other artists are doing, and being in nature. I love going on nature walks, especially out at Black Bayou when the snakes aren’t out! It feels magical and really connects me to my creative spirit.

Q: How has the Monroe-West Monroe community influenced your work?

A: Living here has honestly been a blessing. When I moved here, I kept saying, "I want creative friends," and they just started popping up everywhere - at coffee shops, art events, you name it. We started hanging out, making music, painting, writing - it’s a beautiful collective of artists. The chemistry in this community is amazing and so inspiring.

Q: Where can people find your work?

A: You can find my work at Courtyard Gallery in West Monroe - I'm a founding artist there. I also have merch like t-shirts at The Trove and The Good Daze. Online, visit my website at ashleygreerartwork.com or follow me on Instagram @ashleygreerartwork.

Q: What advice would you give to someone just starting out?

A: Just go for it. Don’t be afraid. Create what you love, set up a booth, connect with people, and put yourself out there. Social media has helped me build a full-time art career, and it all started with being brave. It is possible to be a full-time artist. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Q: How did you get started in art?

A: I actually got started early. I went to Dee Scallan's Montessori School in West Monroe and illustrated some wildlife books for her when I was just 8. From 8 to 12, we toured schools across Louisiana. Later, I went to college, got a biology degree, even attended med school for a year—but art kept calling me back. I started doing art crawls, someone asked me to do a mural, and four years later, this is my full-time job.

Q: Where do you find inspiration?

A: A lot of my ideas come from music. I’ll listen to a song and sketch whatever comes to mind. I also collaborate with my dad on metalwork pieces. He cuts out shapes with his metal cutting machine, and I use what’s left to create new work - it’s a cool process.

Q: What do you love most about the local art community?

A: It’s been amazing. People are always surprised to hear you can make a living as an artist here, but the opportunities are real. I’ve met so many great artists through Courtyard Gallery, Region 8 Arts Council events like Blend of the Bayou, and just being involved. Before this, I was in science and didn’t have any creative circles, so it’s been fun and fulfilling.

Q: Where can people find your art?

A: My work is at Courtyard Gallery in downtown West Monroe, The Trove in Monroe, and The Good Daze. My website is danielmyersart.com, and you can also follow me on Instagram @colorblindkiddaniel. For mural projects, follow @krewecreative.

Q: Is there a piece you’ve created that holds special meaning to you?

A: I’d say the metalwork series I do with my dad. He cuts the metal, and I create the art behind it. It’s collaborative and really special to work with him on those.