Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Herman.
Hi Ashley, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started acting almost 30 years ago, which brought me to North Carolina School of the Arts, Indiana University, and eventually Los Angeles to pursue my career and become a professional artist. I moved back home to Dallas after establishing my career and then the pandemic changed everything. You don’t have to live on the coasts anymore. I believe this is a thriving and healthy market to become a sustainable actor and artist. I opened the Belmont Collective because I desired a space where like-minded people can explore their artistry and collaborate in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment, and I achieved that goal. I can’t wait to see how we organically expand! Many more services and opportunities are in the works!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Of course not! But boy, is it worth it! One thing it’s absolutely necessary to be aware of is with whom to align myself with. This is truly a collaborative art. People determine the atmosphere and you have to have to be meticulous in whom you surround yourself with. Overactive egos are a no-go for me. The pandemic of course threw things our way, but we quickly adapted with safety at the forefront of our minds. Adapting to this market was another necessary achievement. In LA, actors are everywhere constantly working on their craft and seeing results. My goal is to inspire those here to do the same-many already are- and bring the same level of success that these talented Dallas artists deserve!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m doing what I love. Don’t get me wrong, this industry is one of the most competitive. It’s statistically easier to become a billionaire than an Oscar-winning actor. Everyone’s story of success is completely different. Rather than feel intimidated by that, I find it thrilling and inspiring! What sets us apart is the atmosphere we have carefully curated. It’s supportive and promotes growth as a sustainable artist, and that takes mentoring. They never really teach you the business side in most training, and that’s what an artist is; the CEO of their own business. We are also female-forward and owned. BIPOC and LGBTQ-focused. Art should be intersectional. All should be represented.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
I listen and watch standup, standup, standup. From Lenny Bruce to Bo Burnham. If it’s scripted and on tv, I’ve watched at least 5 minutes of it. I’m addicted to IMDB. I can’t turn it off. If you watch anything with me, I’ll have IMDB open, take notes and probably monitor your reaction as an audience member. I follow all the trade articles such as Deadline and Variety to keep me up to date. I’m an avid reader, I read about 3-10 film/tv scripts a week. Books that have stuck with me have included Glennon Doyle’s Untamed, Tarana Burke’s Unbound, Tools of Titans from Tim Ferris, Born Standing Up from Steve Martin, and On Writing from Steven King. Anything from Brene Brown. Currently, I’m enjoying James Burrows’ new book (mostly to manifest working with him). I’m also obsessed with the Smartless Podcast.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.belmontcollectivetx.com
- Instagram: @belmontcollectivetx
- Facebook: @belmontcollectivetx
