Brad Ashlock, MFA

I hold an MFA from the University of Chicago, placing me among the most highly trained artists in Melbourne. This rigorous program honed my skills in both technique and conceptual thinking, deepening my ability to create meaningful, thought-provoking art. With a foundation rooted in one of the world’s leading institutions, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to every project and teaching opportunity.

I have a deep-rooted passion for visual storytelling, with years of experience as both a painter and a self-published author. My artistic journey has been shaped by a love for figurative, narrative-driven painting, influenced by masters like Velázquez, Caravaggio, and contemporary artist Vincent Desiderio.

My work reflects a fascination with layered meaning, blending aesthetics with personal mythologies and philosophical ideas, particularly those drawn from Jungian psychology and Alain Badiou’s ethics. I strive to explore themes of transformation, identity, and encounters with the divine beyond conventional categories, giving my paintings a meta-modern edge.

Beyond painting, I’ve explored writing, music, and mystical-inspired themes, bringing an interdisciplinary flair to my work. I’ve self-published several novels and I enjoy combining traditional forms with unexpected twists. My time as one of Australia’s top HR consultants in the defence industry sharpened my ability to analyze people and narratives intuitively—skills that now enhance my teaching. I love guiding students not only in mastering technique but also in discovering their unique voice through art.

My classes aim to be a space where creativity, self-expression, and personal insight come together in meaningful ways.