EDUCATION
Master of Education in Teaching and Curriculum,
Michigan State University, Lansing, MI | August 2022
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education, emphasis in Painting
Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI | April 2014
Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design
Southwestern Michigan College, Dowagiac, MI | May 2009
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Apparel Designer and Artist, February 2024 – Present
Dubious Arts, Kalamazoo, MI
Management of an online shop using various e-commerce tools,
specializing in artist-made works, including the design of custom digital graphics for a variety of products, such as apparel, stickers, tote bags, wall art, and more. Develop and execute marketing strategies to increase visibility and drive sales, including social media promotion and SEO optimization. Create high-quality, unique products while maintaining a consistent brand aesthetic. Handle customer service inquiries, ensuring a positive shopping experience and fostering repeat business.
Art Teacher, August 2014 – present
Portage Public Schools, Portage, MI
Guide students in the creative process using traditional and
nontraditional media. Implement innovative technologies for
art-making, enhancing student engagement. Showcase student
artwork in local exhibitions, including the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts Young Artists of Kalamazoo County Show and the annual Portage Library District Show. Conduct assessments to measure student growth. Provide constructive feedback and grading.
Freelance Artist and Creator, September 2006 – present
Self employed, Kalamazoo, MI
Create high-quality, unique art including, but not limited to,
portraiture and landscape art. Accepts commissions for personalized art pieces tailored to client specifications.
EXHIBITIONS
Portage Art Educators Exhibition, Brite Eyes Brewery, Kalamazoo, MI (2019)
Art Hop Featured Artist, Plata y Oro Jewelers, Kalamazoo, MI (2017)
Dogwood Fine Arts Festival, Dowagiac, MI (2015)
Ashley Fries and Rising Voices Merge, a Collaboration, Southwestern Michigan College, Dowagiac, MI (2015)
The Power of Portraits, Ella Sharp Museum, Jackson, MI (2013)
Face Value, BFA Thesis Exhibition, Western Michigan University (2013)
Watercolors: An Exhibition by Ashley Fries, L.A. Coffee Cafe, Three Rivers, MI (2012)
Dogwood Fine Arts Festival, Dowagiac, MI (2010)
AWARDS AND HONORS
Adult Scholarship Recipient, Kalamazoo Institute of Art (2025)
Adult Scholarship Recipient, Kalamazoo Institute of Art (2024)
Adult Scholarship Recipient, Kalamazoo Institute of Art (2015)
Tashjian Scholarship (2013)
Wintermyer Art Ed Scholarship (2013)
Exceptional Merit, The Power of Portraits, Ella Sharp Museum (2013)
WMU Dean’s List (2010 – 2014)
College of Fine Arts Scholarship, Gwen Frostic School of Art (2011-2013)
Half-Tuition Scholarship, Ox-Bow Summer School of Art (2010)
PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATIONS
Michigan Professional Teaching Certificate
Visual Arts Education K-12 | 2014 – present
National Art Education Association, 2010 – 2020, 2024 – present
Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED, 2014
SKILLS
Adobe Creative Suite
Procreate
Google Suite
Oil Paint
Watercolor
Dry media
Interpersonal communication
Attention to detail
Strong organization
Proficient in both PC and Mac environments