Ashley Gray

Ashley Gray, known in the digital art world as Human, is a London-based artist whose work bridges technical mastery with raw personal reflection. His creations explore profound themes of duality, ego, grief, and loss, blending structured precision with expressive chaos to evoke deep emotional responses.

From an early age, Ashley's inner world was shaped by introspection and existential curiosity. While many embraced the simplicity of youth, he found himself drawn into the complexities of thought—a quiet observer of both human emotion and the indifferent universe. This introspective nature fueled his artistic journey, challenging him to articulate the intangible through digital form.

A Digital Pathway to Expression

Encouraged by his family, Ashley pursued a path that merged his scientific interests with creativity. Initially drawn to science then later programming and graphic design, he soon discovered 3D modelling, a medium that transformed his early struggles with traditional drawing into an exciting exploration of space and form. Introduced to Maya in college—and later 3DStudio Max and ZBrush—he found a discipline that allowed him to construct precise digital worlds.

His skills were sharpened further at Teesside University, where he earned both a Degree and a Master’s in Computer Games Art, refining his ability to craft digital compositions, narrative structures, and immersive spaces. While the rigorous demands of the program tested his resilience, his mentors played a pivotal role in guiding him through moments of doubt and creative uncertainty.

Navigating Challenges & Artistic Evolution

Following his academic achievements, Ashley faced the realities of the creative industry. Despite his technical expertise, securing opportunities proved difficult. Temporary roles gave way to an unexpected four-year stretch working in a meat factory—a humbling experience that, despite its challenges, instilled a deeper sense of perseverance and resilience.

It was during this time that his artistic practice underwent significant transformation. His method, now a distinctive two-stage process, combines precise 3D modelling with expressive digital painting:

1. Structured Foundation – Beginning with elemental shapes, Ashley meticulously refines and constructs his 3D compositions to create a single shot.

2. Creative Chaos – Once the foundation is set, he moves into the realm of 2D digital painting, blending layers of color, light, and texture to bring emotional intensity to the piece.

This fusion of order and chaos defines his artistic identity—a dance between the controlled precision of digital space and the visceral energy of painted expression.

Influences & Inspirations

Ashley’s influences span both modern and classical worlds. On one hand, contemporary 3D artists such as Viky Yeo, Mike Thompson, and Raf Grassetti inform his technical approach, each offering a level of mastery he continuously aspires to. On the other, historical figures like Edgar Allan Poe, Francisco Goya, and Edvard Munch provide thematic inspiration—their explorations of human fragility and existential depth resonate deeply with his creative philosophy.

Recognition & Milestones

Despite facing challenges early in his career, Ashley’s perseverance has been rewarded through various accolades:

• CGSociety Awards – Winner in 2011 & 2017

• Creativepool People's Choice Award (2023) – A defining achievement in his digital art career

• Van Gogh Tribute (2024) – Credited entry

• Contemporary Art Station Premier Art Prize (2025)

• Featured in “Art Leaders of Tomorrow” (2025) by Contemporary Art Curator

• Top 25 Artist by Graphicker.me for 5 years (now closed)

• rank 1 Digital Artist by Creativepool.com for 8 years

His exhibition history includes:

• Solo Exhibition at ArtFix (2019)

• Parallax Art Fair (2022)

• Upcoming international showcase in Tokyo (2025)

Beyond awards and shows, Ashley's artistic journey has been shaped by the unwavering support of Creativepool, an organization that championed his work during times of uncertainty. His piece, The Hands That Lift Me (2024), is dedicated to those who empowered his creative standing, helping him rise beyond self-doubt.

The Essence of Ashley's Work

At its core, Ashley's art serves as a meditation on the tension between human emotion and the indifferent universe. His compositions reflect the internal struggle between structure and chaos—each piece offering a window into the fragile yet persistent nature of existence.