Tarpon Springs Artist Thrives Despite Life's Obstacles

Among her many talents, Ashley Urban is a painter and a musician. She started making a living with her skills after being diagnosed with high-functioning autism when she was 18.

The disorder lead to Urban's interest in art and music. She found efficiency and satisfaction with expressing herself through drawings or an instrument rather than verbal communication.

"I always had trouble communicating," Ashley said. "So, art and music have been my best priorities."

Ashley has been living in Tarpon Springs with her family since she was 9. 

Her mother, Mary Urban, said the disorder was somewhat apparent throughout Ashley's childhood, but went undiagnosed by professionals for some time.

Mary explained the disorder as someone who does not speak a first language fluently. 

Frustration was an inevitable obstacle for the family, but Mary said Ashley never lost her sense of compassion.

"She has got a heart as big as the world," Mary said.

Ashley's knack for creative expression was noted early on, but her parents and teachers just assumed she was gifted.

"In preschool, the teachers would say 'you need to look into this art thing' because she was always very good," Mary explained.

Music was Ashley's first step into the art world, which she began to master at just 5 years old. She can play the harp, the violin and the piano. Ashley added that she recently started taking vocal lessons, as well.

Drawing was an instant hit with Ashley and it eventually lead to painting. Painting is where Ashley makes the majority of her income and she uses unique objects instead of canvases.

"Whenever you have a special vision or an idea in your head, you just want to bring it out through your talents," Ashley explained.

The Tarpon Springs Chamber of Commerce has been welcoming of Urban's work for years and endorses her as an artist.

"The chamber has been really great and the exposure is amazing," said Mary. "It gives Ashley purpose."

Sometimes, Ashley will showcase her art at a show or festival to add some profit to her plate. With so many talents and avenues of interest, one might wonder how the 24-year-old can balance it all.

Ashley said scheduling is key and keeping a steady flow of activities helps maintain the balance.

Although she enjoys a variety of mediums, manga, a form of Japanese animation, is Ashley's favorite form of art.

She might be seizing the day on a daily basis, but the young artist thinks about the future a lot, too.

Ashley said that her goals include becoming a great artist as well as a ballroom dancing champion.

"Art has made me forget all about my disability," Ashley said. 

Sign up for the free Tarpon Springs Patch newsletter to receive the top headlines in your email seven days a week.