Artist Highlight: Ashley Hicks
Ashley Hicks grew up in the world of interior design. Son of design legend David Hicks, Ashley's eye was trained from an early age—first at home and later at the Architectural Association in London. Today Ashley designs his own furniture, textiles, carpets, and more; and he has published two books. Alessandra has used Ashley's pieces in her projects for many years, and Casa Branca is thrilled to offer a selection of his artworks for sale both at our Palm Beach showroom and online.
In 2012, Ashley began creating decorative objects including his totem sculptures made with resin, clay and gilt bronze — which he calls "jewelry for rooms.”
His painted jute-covered panels are inspired by flowers from his garden and objects in museums.
✤ Q & A ✤
Where do you find inspiration?
I mainly find all my inspiration in the past, in historic interiors and in objects that I see in museums around the world.
What makes a house a home?
A house is made a home by the people who live in it! No room can have true personality without reflecting its owner’s tastes, enthusiasms, loves and history.
Favorite vacation spot?
Favourite vacation is driving around Italy looking at beautiful things, or staying in one of the Landmark Trust’s wonderful follies and historic buildings in England – see @landmarktrust on Instagram.
Favorite design book?
Best design book ever (apologies to my late father) is Billy Baldwin on Decorating. Pure genius.
Best housewarming gift?
I am far too unappealing as a guest to be invited to any housewarming parties, I am happy to say.
Favorite meal?
I am always made fun of for eating pasta every night with pesto and broccoli.
Favorite scent for the home?
I have old packs of joss sticks from long-ago visits to India and occasionally light one of those.
Favorite artist dead or alive?
Impossible to choose really, but I will say Andrea Mantegna.
✤ Start with Art! ✤
The fun of "the mix" doesn't stop with fabrics and wallpapers. Artwork is another important tool, functioning sometimes as the foundation you build a room around or as that final pop of sophistication, drama, or joy... Select from Ashley's totems and panels, and see where they take you!
