My name is Ali Cushing and I am nothing if not multifaceted. A former professional ballerina and self taught artist, I studied Political Science at University of Washington in Seattle, moved to New York City to pursue a PhD in Political Theory and a Law Degree and instead ended up working in the film industry and as a freelance illustrator, graphic designer, and photographer.
My life, like my interests, has been accumulative and evolving; different experiences and skill sets informing and expanding on one another, to give a unique perspective and way of understanding art and people. What’s resulted is a range of unique and adaptable styles of both visual and performing art, while working independently and collaboratively. In all of my mediums I aim for a precise technique and then explores form and expression, valuing inherently what’s “real” and also what can be crafted. This makes for varying balances of realism, classical elements, romanticism, surrealism, contemporary forms of movement, and visualizations of abstract moments and emotions juxtaposed amongst instantaneous captures of tangible life; intimacy and expanse.
I am always seeking opportunities to explore these styles in different light and in collaboration. While my focus has shifted dramatically towards photography in an array of capacities, I am grateful to still be involved with illustration, film, and literary projects. In every way I believe this makes me a stronger photographer.
