ashley chappell

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Ashley Chappell is a Chicago based photographer of bold and fantastical imagery who is driven by a passionate attention to beauty and representation. Using the forms of fashion, documentary, and fine art photography in unison and interchangeably, Ashley’s work examines the boundaries of each genre, and ultimately transcends their unique limitations in her images. At the heart of the work is a desire to celebrate the multitude of Black bodies, experiences, and identities. While technically precise, Ashley’s work employs elements of blur, motion, and light in order to create surreal and dreamlike impressions which often emulate painterly qualities. By juxtaposing contrasting elements—high fashion in raw, natural environments or ethereal figures in urban settings—the work symbolizes the tension between societal expectations and personal expression. This interplay reflects the fluidity of identity and encourages the viewer to see beyond the surface. When seen together the work functions in a dreamlike narrative space between fantasy and reality, inviting viewers to explore alternate versions of beauty and identity. Photography is a medium unique in the ability to visualize and redefine perceived representations. Informed by the camera’s unique possibilities and limitations, Ashley’s work ultimately amplifies marginalized voices and creates a space for underrepresented stories to reimagine the narratives that shape how we see ourselves and each other.

Bio

“A retired nurse, Ashley Chappell's journey into photography unveils a tale of resilience and pursuing dreams. After being forced to leave nursing a decade ago due to lupus, Ashley found solace and purpose behind the lens during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her photography embodies a captivating duality. Inspired by the earthy beauty of nature, her work simultaneously exudes opulence and luxury, reflecting her upbringing in a middle-class African American household surrounded by African art and rich textures. “