We had the good fortune of connecting with Ayla Rose and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ayla, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
As a young child, I enjoyed drawing, like many other children. However, my passion for it didn’t develop until I was a preteen. I took a small art class where I learned to draw Disney characters. After that class, I started drawing all the time and gradually developed my own style throughout my teenage years.
My mother was my first role model. Even though she drew occasionally, she had an incredible talent for it. I was always amazed at how effortlessly she could draw something simple and make it look amazing. It puzzled me why she never pursued an art career.
Due to societal expectations and the perception that it was challenging to sustain oneself as an artist, I briefly considered other career paths. During my teenage years, I pursued my second passion for becoming a fashion designer. I enjoyed creating my own clothes and occasionally made them for my friends. Fashion design became the theme of my senior project. However, I became disheartened when I noticed my designs being mass-produced and sold at popular retailers. Moreover, after high school, I realized the cutthroat nature of the fashion industry and decided it wasn’t the right fit for me.
When pursuing an artistic career, the main challenge I faced was the skepticism of others. Many people believed that it was impossible to make a living wage from art unless you became famous after your death. This prevailing mindset hindered my progress as an artist and made it difficult to receive support for my dreams.
The project that solidified my decision to pursue an artistic career on a larger scale was the Sun and Moon into Infinity collection. I’ve been working on this collection since my early 20s, and it remains a significant part of my artistic journey. The digitalization of the collection is still in progress, and I have numerous projects in mind once it’s completed.
The connection between my creative expression and my personal identity is profound. My artwork now directly reflects my spiritual journey and personal growth. Each piece tells a story of my awakening and is intended to help others understand and enlighten themselves through the same revelations I experienced.
The most fulfilling aspect of being involved in the creative field is the opportunity to create what I enjoy and witnessing others’ enjoyment of my work. It warms my heart to hear how people develop strong attachments to specific artworks and collections. It’s also rewarding to know that people look forward with excitement to receiving my artwork for their homes.
Throughout the years, I’ve encountered numerous misconceptions and stereotypes about artistic careers. The best way I’ve found to address them is by staying true to myself and creating what resonates with me. While there will always be naysayers, I can’t control what people say or think. Instead, I strive to be a beacon of light and set an example that following one’s heart and passion will ultimately lead to success and support, as others witness your genuine fulfillment.
I’ve made various sacrifices to pursue my artistic dreams, as well as choices against them. In my early 20s, I quit my job to focus on an art career. However, it proved challenging to gain recognition at the time, and I had to take up low-end jobs to cover my expenses. Later, in my late 20s, when I started building recognition, I became a mother and put my art career on hold to prioritize my role as a parent. Though I continued creating and selling artwork, my time and energy were primarily devoted to being a mother. Now, with my second child, I am working to find a family and art career balance that works best for all of us.
The impact I want to make with my art is one of enlightenment. I seek to bring my visions and spiritual concepts to every person in a visually pleasing and creative way. My goal is to help others navigate their struggles, traumas, and uncertainties of life so that they may find unconditional love and understanding for themselves, ultimately progressing spiritually.
In terms of legacy, I hope to leave behind a message of love and self-understanding. I want to inspire others to recognize themselves as cosmic creator beings, capable of infinite possibilities.
Through my artwork, I aspire to create a lasting legacy that sparks a sense of connection and encourages individuals to embrace their own unique creative paths.
By sharing my artistic journey, I aim to inspire others who are considering a similar path and demonstrate that following one’s passion can lead to a fulfilling and meaningful career. Art has the power to touch hearts, evoke emotions, and create change, and I am committed to leaving a positive impact on the world through my artistic endeavors.
I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story. I hope it inspires readers and encourages them to pursue their own artistic or creative dreams.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me apart from others with my artwork is the cosmic undertones that are present in my work. I perceive myself as a cosmic creator being, a universe within the universe. The themes of space and cosmic elements are often incorporated into my artwork, conveying profound messages. I firmly believe that within every individual resides a universe waiting to be explored. My work aims to bring this awareness to the forefront of perception for those who observe it.
What sets me apart from others with my artwork is the cosmic undertones that are present in my work. I perceive myself as a cosmic creator being, a universe within the universe. The themes of space and cosmic elements are often incorporated into my artwork, conveying profound messages. I firmly believe that within every individual resides a universe waiting to be explored. My work aims to bring this awareness to the forefront of perception for those who observe it.
One aspect that I take great pride in is my unwavering dedication to making a living through my art. Despite the ups and downs of life, art has been my constant companion, helping me navigate through it all. I create art primarily for myself, as it nourishes my soul and enriches my experiences in the world. I’m also proud of my continuous growth and improvement as an artist. Even during periods when I have stopped creating for months or years, I have always managed to return with renewed vigor and produce better and stronger work.
Throughout my artistic journey, I have faced numerous challenges. From moments of self-doubt and depression to societal expectations, personal circumstances like loss of home and financial instability, and the responsibilities of pregnancy and family priorities, the road hasn’t been easy. However, I have learned to overcome these challenges by looking forward, maintaining a positive outlook, and believing in my ability to overcome any obstacle. I have come to understand that it is never too late to start something new, make changes, or rediscover old passions. As long as we have breath in our bodies, there is always time to pursue what brings us joy and fulfillment.
I want the world to recognize that the work I create only scratches the surface of what can be perceived. The brand name “Mama Fox Source” was chosen with the intention of my work serving as a source of the Mama Fox perspective—a perspective that others can relate to in some way as their own. Through my artwork, I share perspectives that are meant to aid others in understanding themselves better, as I engage in the inner work necessary to gain a deeper understanding of myself. It is my hope that by sharing my own introspective journey through my art, others will also embark on their own path toward a greater understanding of life and love.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When visiting Denver, there are many places I would encourage visiting. Meow Wolf is among the most interesting and creative places one could visit. Filled with creative art and projects that make the mind think and wonder. I would also encourage eating at Fire on the Mountain for the best wings, including vegan and gluten free options. My favorite restaurant is Yak N Yeti, the best Nepalese food I’ve found across the country. Visiting Boulder for a fun day or night out down pearl street to peruse the shops and restaurants. It’s always as exceptional experience visiting Red Rocks for an amazing musical experience with your favorite musicians.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate this shoutout to everyone in my life who has supported me in following my artist passion. That lists includes my partner Zao Zin, who supports me in my interests and passions. My friend Kathryn Dement who has always loved and supported my work and has worked on collaborative projects with me. Past partners, and friends who have loved my work and supported me by purchasing work from me. My oldest sister Grace, who often buys work, to help support me and my family through my art career. Sierra Rose, a mentor and supporter of my work and business. With the support of my loved ones, I know that I can continue my dream to enlighten others with my artwork. Of course shout out to all my followers across all social media platforms that always interact with my posts, helping keep the dream alive!
Website: https://mamafoxsource.wixsite.com/mamafoxsource
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamafoxsource/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MamaFoxSourcNFT
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mamafoxsource1111?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Youtube: https://youtube.com/@MamaFoxSource
Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@mamafoxsource?_t=8cyZis2FXcB&_r=1