For Bob Ashley, being a fine artist means constantly seeking new avenues for expression, never limiting himself to a single medium. This lifelong search for creative storytelling led him to animation and illustration, proving that "Animation is art too!" Sixty years ago, Bob's professional journey began after graduating from Kendall School of Art and Design, leading to work as an illustrator in Grand Rapids and later at Hallmark Cards. While there, he honed skills in various art forms and freelanced, eventually starting his own creative studio. Missing Michigan, he returned to build the career he cherishes today, continually illustrating, painting, and cartooning daily.

Bob's latest endeavor is a cartoon-style story promoting inclusivity. He uses multi-colored, diverse alien children to show that despite our different sizes, shapes, and colors, we are fundamentally alike. In this story, the aliens finish rebuilding an asteroid and decide to visit Earth—"that little blue planet." Their crash-landing at an Earth picnic is a catalyst for discovery, as they realize the human children are just as wonderfully diverse as they are. The learning and growth begin here, driven by a deep commitment to sharing positive, influential art. It’s a wonderful life!