From Red Rocks to Granite: A Southwest Artist’s Journey to the Northeast

If you had told me a few years ago that I’d be trading in the vast, sun-drenched landscapes of New Mexico for the rugged, tree-lined beauty of New Hampshire, I probably would have laughed. But here I am, fully embracing life in the Granite State—which, conveniently, sounds like a pretty solid place (pun absolutely intended) for an artist who loves rockhounding.

New Mexico will always hold a special place in my heart, with its fiery sunsets and mystical desert energy. But I have to admit, the Northeast has a certain charm—especially when it comes to its rocks! From smoky quartz to garnets to the occasional tourmaline find, New Hampshire is a treasure trove just waiting to be explored. Let’s just say my rock collection (and, by extension, my studio space) is about to get a whole lot more crowded.

Digging into New Inspiration

As many of you know, I’ve always drawn inspiration from nature, whether it’s in my jewelry designs, original artwork, or even the stickers I create for Beyond Inspired. Moving here has opened up a whole new world of creative possibilities. The forests, rivers, and of course, the incredible geology of New England are already influencing my work.

Expect to see more raw, natural elements in my jewelry—hand-picked stones from my own rockhounding adventures, infused with the energy of the places I find them. I’m also expanding Beyond Inspired with fresh artwork and designs that reflect this new chapter. If you love nature, crystals, and a little bit of magic, you’re in for a treat!

A Rock-Solid Future

Moving across the country is no small feat (and yes, I do miss green chile more than I can express), but I’m excited for all the adventures ahead. Whether I’m hiking through the White Mountains in search of minerals or creating something totally new in my studio, I can’t wait to share it all with you.

So, if you’ve been following my journey, get ready for more rock-fueled creativity, some fun new additions to my shop, and—let’s be honest—probably a few stories about me getting lost in the woods with a backpack full of rocks.

Here’s to new beginnings, new creations, and, of course, more rocks than my shelves can probably handle! Stay tuned!

– Ashley