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Pop art provocateur Ashley Longshore made waves at her Miami Art Week debut, unveiling a striking exhibition at Aqua Art Fair that challenges societal norms surrounding money, power, and gender. The event featured 50 new sculptures and paintings, complemented by a provocative display of $30,000 in $1 bills strewn across the floor—an audacious statement on capitalism and the art world’s role within it.
Often dubbed a “modern-day Andy Warhol with a Southern flair,” Longshore is celebrated for her bold explorations of luxury, pop culture, consumerism, and feminism. This year marks her first participation in an art fair, despite her successful career as an independent gallerist. “I’m their worst nightmare,” she proclaimed, emphasizing her commitment to self-representation and financial independence. “Don’t give up 50% to a middleman,” she asserted, elaborating on the importance of autonomy in both art and life.
In addition to her exhibition, Longshore launched her dazzling “boob bag” collaboration with Judith Leiber Couture during Miami Art Week. She also released her fourth book, *Giving the Bird: Bird Stories*, featuring whimsical illustrations paired with her witty commentary. Highlights from her recent endeavors include a limited-edition “Press for Champagne” ring with Harwell Godfrey, a speaking engagement at the Financial Times’ annual FTWeekend event, and hosting a pop-up art show with designer Christian Siriano.
Longshore’s career is marked by collaborations with major brands like Gucci and Porsche, and she made history as Bergdorf Goodman’s first female artist to have a solo exhibit in its storied window display. Her collectors include notable celebrities such as Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, and Salma Hayek.
With her exhibition at Aqua Art Fair, which runs from December 5 to December 8, Longshore cements her position as a vibrant force in contemporary art, committed to empowering women through financial independence. Her work not only captivates but also inspires, leaving an indelible mark on the art world and beyond.