BIOGRAPHY
Ayala is a contemporary visual artist of Indigenous heritage, whose work explores spirituality, ancestry, and divine femininity. Her artistic journey began at an early age, inspired by a creative family—her father, a skilled woodcarver, and her four sisters, each of whom discovered an artistic outlet.
Originating from a small Andean city on the border of Colombia and Ecuador, her family’s roots have deeply influenced her lifelong commitment to art as a means of empowerment and healing. She honed her craft at a performing arts high school and later earned a BFA from the California College of Art in San Francisco, where she expanded into animation and graphic design. Ayala received a Grammy certificate for her design work and earned an internship within a prestigious commercial agency.
In search of a deeper connection to her true calling, Ayala rediscovered her passion for painting. Her portraits, rendered with intricate details, celebrate the beauty and strength of women, drawing on personal, ancestral, and spiritual influences. Her work has been showcased in live broadcasts and has gained recognition from influencers and celebrities. Additionally, she has collaborated with global brands, further extending her influence as a visual artist.
Ayala has held solo exhibitions in New York City and Chicago, and participated in numerous group shows. In addition to her artistic practice, she is a passionate advocate for Indigenous and Latino communities, engaging in activism through donated artwork, live painting performances, and artist lectures. With a growing collective of over 130k across social media platforms, Ayala invites you to join her on a journey of creative exploration as @artbyayala.
my art story
Hey soul tribe, I’m Ayala! I am 1st generation with Indigenous roots from humble beginnings originating in Ipiales, a small Andean city on the border of Colombia and Ecuador. I come from a family of strong, creative women—five sisters who all inherited a creative spirit. Our father, an incredible woodcarver and carpenter, practically built the furniture in our home. As a child, I spent endless hours drawing. I remember being reprimanded at school for being too preoccupied with my sketches. The kids at school asked if I was an artist, but at the time I didn't really know what being an artist meant.
As a teen my sister led me to discover an opportunity to attend a rare, inner city performing arts high school. This had a profound impact on my life. I completely flourished studying painting, drawing and sculpture by day and worked after hours airbrushing clothing at the mall. I credit my education to a wonderful teacher who helped me complete my college application. I received a scholarship to San Francisco's California College of Art where I studied painting. Alone in a big city, it was one of the most challenging times where I supported myself as a full time student.
I began to feel like I couldn't identify within the world of Fine Art and left the painting department. I went on to study animation and graphic design. I graduated with a BFA and landed an internship with Got Milk's, Goodby Silverstein & Partners. I sharpened my knowledge in motion graphics and editing. However, my 9-5 left me feeling very disconnected from my own creativity and community. Eventually I had an undeniable longing to paint again.
After reading "The Power of Positive Thinking" I was inspired to move to New York. I arrived in the Bronx with 2 suitcases and a curious desire to challenge my potential and experiment artistically. Today, I am so grateful to have found a community, an entrepreneurial spirit and a sense of purpose. My art is inspired by spirituality, ancestry and femininity. I hope to spark empowerment in others through my portfolio and I’m excited to see the art the future will bring. Thank you so much for joining me on this journey!