My name is Rachel Ashley and I am a recent graduate of the Costume Design and Construction department at the University of Arizona. I received my undergraduate degree at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona, and choose to pursue a graduate degree after a year of working out in the field.
Flagstaff, Arizona was full of unique and artistic people that nurtured my creativity. I was blessed to spend four years there, and the staff and faculty NAU made my time rich and full of experiences. I was able to cultivate my existing skills there, such as basic tailoring and draping, and also did some fun things, like puppet construction!
The University of Arizona allowed me to enhance my technical costume and accessory skills by challenging me with so many different projects. I was able to be exposed to many different types of construction and patterning methods, and to implement those efficiently during production. With both my undergraduate and graduate experience, I was also able to take advantage of the other theatres in my area and work with a variety of different designers and costume shops while earning both my degrees.
Costumes are not simply clothing for me. They are a way to communicate to an audience who that character is. They helps convey unspoken things like the characters’ deepest fears or most ambitious dreams. These traits are displayed through color and style, silhouette, and the movement of what the actors are wearing.
Whether I am designing or building a show, putting each of these garments together, fitting them to the actor, and seeing them onstage under the lights of the theatre is one of the most fulfilling things I've ever done. Seeing a completed garment that I've made with my own two hands and with accumulating knowledge from working with a variety of different people and places provide one of the greatest joys I've ever known and are just a couple of reasons I love what I do.
At this time, my husband and I have made the big decision to move to Washington State. Currently I am looking for work in a costume shop or a university and am excited to show off my new skills. I am passionate about working towards improving myself every, and as I grow older, no effort is too great to make this dream come true. During this down time, I’ve dedicated myself to learning more about my craft through books and online workshops.
If my work interests you, or if you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact me! It is my hope that this digital portfolio, along with my other professional pages (see: Instagram: @rachelashley48), continues to expand and inspire interest. My contact information can be found on the resume page. I would be happy to skype or facetime with you as well, if that is your preference.