Ashleigh Ritchie is a North Canterbury-based artist with a love for all things creative and colourful. Her artistic journey began in 2012 when she started a Bachelor of Applied Visual Arts at Ara Institute of Canterbury (CPIT), and by 2014 she was awarded the FRIENDS of the Christchurch Art Gallery Scholarship for excellence—an exciting start to her career.

Ashleigh is an active member of Arts Canterbury, Rangiora Art Society, and Ashburton Art Society, and has exhibited her work in their art shows throughout 2023–2025. Highlights include Best in Show 2023 at the Rangiora Art Society Spring Exhibition and Best Panel 2024 at the Kaiapoi Art Expo.

While her studies focused on intaglio and sculpture, portraiture has become Ashleigh’s true passion. Working in oil on panel, she creates intimate, vibrant, and expressive portraits of people and pets close to her heart. Many of her works feature floral accents and natural motifs, transforming everyday moments into pieces that feel warm, personal, and timeless.

Ashleigh’s art invites viewers to pause, reflect, and connect. Whether through a commissioned portrait or an original work, she strives to bring beauty, emotion, and a sense of belonging into every space.