Ashley Romo, professionally known as Romo De Ashley, is a Mexican-American theater, visual, and music artist from Detroit, Michigan.

Born and raised in Detroit, she began her career in visual art at the age of 13, gaining recognition for her work and exhibitions at the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA). Since then, her work has received numerous accolades, including a Scholastic Silver Key Portfolio Award and exhibitions at prestigious venues such as the DIA, Fox Theater, and Boomer Gallery in London. From Detroit to London, her art—spanning portraiture, landscapes, and magical realism—has been recognized virtually, nationally, and globally. She is known for her surreal, realistic style, using mediums like oil pastels on canvas, acrylics on cardboard, and graphite/charcoal on newspaper.

Beyond visual art, Romo De Ashley explores many other creative mediums, transforming her portraits and concepts into fashion design. She uses unconventional materials—such as plastic bags, sunglasses, pearls, and acrylic paint on fabric—to create statement pieces that blend the world of fame with her own artistic identity.

As of 2024, this is Romo’s second year working in theater as a props artisan and painter. Though she has branched out from visual art, she still finds joy in working with talented creatives in a team setting. She has contributed to shows like Inherit the Wind (Assistant Props Designer), Defying Gravity (Painting Artist), The Yellow Boat (Drawing Artist), and MSU Unscripted (Actor). Currently, she is working on 9 to 5 as Assistant Paint Charge. Outside of theater, she has also performed as a dancer at Michigan State University, including as a soloist in beginner ballet, contortion, and self-choreographed contemporary dance. Also as a Group dancer in Beginner Ballet.

Romo’s growing experience in theater has led her to produce her own music. Inspired by artists like David Bowie, Bjork, Pink Floyd, Gorillaz, Blur, and Soda Stereo, she creates concept albums and EPs that blend alternative, indie, and rock sounds with theatrical storytelling. Her music explores philosophical themes, often creating characters and narratives that reflect her artistic evolution.

We spoke at length about her creative journey, and it doesn’t end there. Romo is currently pursuing a degree in philosophy with a double major in theater at Michigan State University. She hopes to continue her education by pursuing a PhD in philosophy and a career as a professor.

In her free time, she enjoys playing chess (though she admits she’s not the best player), reading, studying fashion, watching movies and shows, and much more.

Essentially, she wants to do everything.

This is Romo De Ashley.