For Ash Royer, opening a studio in Thomaston marks the realization of a long-standing goal and a connection to the town where she grew up.

After years of developing her work, Royer has opened her own studio inside the Seth Thomas Factory.

“Having my own personal studio has been a goal of mine for many years, and finally accomplishing it feels surreal,” she said. “Every time I walk in and see what I’ve created, it makes me smile.”

Royer grew up in Thomaston, attending Black Rock and Center School before graduating from Thomaston High School in 2014. She has also been involved with Landmark Community Theatre since 2015.

“Being able to open my studio right here in my hometown, in the same community that helped shape me, feels like everything has come full circle,” she said.

Her studio is located on the second floor of the Seth Thomas Factory, where she has also completed mural work for Clocktown Brewing Company and Unimetal.

Royer’s background in human services has played a significant role in shaping her work. She began at Mindscape in Thomaston as a working artist with individuals living with traumatic brain injuries, later becoming Art Director and developing pre-vocational programs tailored to clients’ abilities and goals. After Mindscape closed, she continued similar work in Avon and now works privately with the state supporting TBI clients.

“They shaped the way I approach teaching with patience, adaptability, and a deep respect for meeting people where they are creatively and personally,” she said.

She also began working with younger artists after being connected through a social media post, an experience that led her to take on art lessons with children.

“I truly fell in love with teaching children and watching their creativity grow,” she said.

Royer’s role as a firefighter and emergency medical responder has also influenced her artwork. She has been with the Northfield Volunteer Fire Company since 2020 and currently serves as a second lieutenant.

Through access to images from fire photographers and departments, she has created artwork focused on military and first responder themes.

“It’s my way of honoring that world and the people who serve in it,” she said.

The studio provides a dedicated space for her work, something she said also helps separate her projects from her home. “My vision for this studio space is honestly to get my living room back from all the mural projects and art supplies that have completely taken over,” she said.

Located across from Clocktower Yoga and Clocktower Records, the studio is not currently a storefront. Royer is offering art lessons by appointment while continuing her full-time job. More information about her work, commissions, and availability can be found on Facebook at Ash‘s Art Prints LLC and on Instagram at aa_artprints.

Looking ahead, she said she hopes to expand how the space is used.

“I’d love to host open studio time on the weekends in the spring and summer, especially on warm weekends, to create more opportunities for the public to visit, connect, and make art together,” she said.