A Dordt University freshman is gaining international recognition for her artwork after being selected to compete in a global showcase for emerging artists.
Dordt University freshman Ashley Torner, an art major from Mankato, has been accepted into the People’s Artist Competition, an international contest highlighting up-and-coming artists from around the world.
Torner says she first learned about the opportunity through social media but nearly passed on applying.
“At first I didn’t even apply,” she says. “I thought it was too big of a thing—that I wouldn’t be able to compete at that level.”
After continuing to see promotions for the contest, she decided to submit her work anyway.
Competitive Selection Process
Applicants for the competition are evaluated based on artwork submissions, personal essays, and artistic vision statements. Torner submitted images of her artwork along with written reflections about her inspiration and creative process.
Soon afterward, she learned she had been selected to compete.
The competition includes a $25,000 grand prize, an exhibition opportunity in Los Angeles, and a feature in a major art publication.
“I didn’t even expect to be selected to compete at all,” Torner says. “It’s exciting to see where it goes.”
Dordt Faculty Encouraged Her To Pursue Opportunity
Torner says she shared the news with Dordt faculty members during an art show, where professors encouraged her to take the opportunity seriously and continue promoting her work.
She says that support reflects the close-knit nature of Dordt’s art program.
“I wanted to be part of an art program that reflects Christian values,” she says. “That’s something that really sets Dordt apart.”
Faith and Storytelling Shape Artistic Style
Torner says her artistic style has evolved from realism into more impressionistic painting and colored-pencil work focused on emotion and storytelling.
“To me, art is about expression and storytelling,” she explains. “I love creating work that has meaning and feeling behind it.”
She also says her Christian faith plays a central role in her creative process.
“As a Christian, creating art is where I feel closest in fellowship to God,” she says. “It’s my way of sharing my life with others and glorifying Him.”
Torner says she draws inspiration from both nature and everyday interactions with people.
“When I see a sunrise, the mountains, or even people’s faces, I see God’s creativity,” she says. “That brings me peace and joy.”
Public Voting Underway
Voting in the People’s Artist Competition will take place over multiple rounds, with artists advancing based on public support.
Torner says reaching the top 20 would already be a meaningful accomplishment.
“If I had the opportunity to use my voice in that space,” she adds, “I would want to encourage more faith-centered perspectives in art.”
People can vote for Torner’s artwork through the competition website.
