Ashley Ivanko is a painter based in Oxford, CT whose work explores nostalgia, specifically through beach and water-related imagery, with a focus on color placement. Ivanko is interested in realism, as well as abstraction within her works. She is a student working to obtain a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting, with a minor in psychology, from the Hartford Art School at the University of Hartford. She has exhibited in both galleries on the University of Hartford campus, her work most notably being a part of the 2024 Goldfarb Juried Exhibition and being published in Aerie for 2025, the university’s literary journal. Ashley’s work is recognized for its nostalgic characteristics, as well as its color exploration and gestural marks. Currently, she is working towards gaining experience and knowledge with an interest in earning a master’s degree with a focus on art therapy. Ivanko lives at home with her mother, father, twin sister, and two dogs Sofie and Paisley, whom she enjoys spending time with whenever possible.