About Me

I’m a Polish-British artist, educator, and researcher living and creating in Surrey, UK. Aska, short for Joanna, is the name my family and friends have always called me. Embracing it in my art is a way of honouring the heart-led nature of my practice and my creative identity: informal, accessible and deeply personal.

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My Art

​My abstract and semi-abstract mixed media art explores the interconnectedness of nature, humanity, and the energy that flows through both. I’m drawn to the contrasts and connections between organic and synthetic materials, and to the multisensory qualities they hold.

Much of my inspiration comes from the natural world — the textures, colours, and patterns found in crystals, rocks, minerals, and tree bark. In my practice, I combine these with epoxy resin and other synthetic materials to create highly textured, tactile works that invite interaction through more than just vision. These pieces speak to the sense of touch and to the subtle energetic resonance carried by the materials themselves

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From Language to Art

Before becoming a full-time artist, I spent many years working as a lecturer and researcher in Translation Studies. That background continues to influence my creative practice. I’ve always been aware of the potential of language as a communicative tool, but also deeply aware of its limitations and how often words fail us when we try to express our deepest emotions, intuitions or fleeting moments of insight. For me, art is a way of translating those moments into something tangible and shareable. This has led to a growing interest in multisensory perception, especially in how people experience art beyond just sight. I draw on theories of embodied cognition and continue to explore how haptic (touch-based) elements can open up new ways of connecting with art and make it more inclusive, especially for blind and visually impaired audiences.

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Community and Connection

Art is not just something I want to create, but something I want to share. I’m passionate about accessibility, creative wellbeing, and building spaces where everyone feels welcome to explore their creativity. I offer monthly, free "Be Brave" Workshops, designed to help people connect or reconnect with their creativity in a relaxed and encouraging setting. These workshops are open to all, especially those who may not see themselves as “creative” or haven’t made art since childhood. I believe creativity belongs to everyone and that taking that first brave step can be life-changing.

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I’m also proud to be an active member of my local art community. I serve as Secretary of Woking Art Society I'm a member of the administrative and curatorial team at Guildford Arts, and a volunteer at Lockwood Studios. 

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Connect

This website is a window into my artistic journey. I hope it offers you inspiration, connection, or even just a moment of visual joy.

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If you’d like to connect, follow me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn or get in touch directly:  art@askagough.co.uk. I’m always happy to chat, collaborate, or discuss commissions.

 

Thank you for being here.

Aska

 

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