Who is Ashe

Ashleigh Thompson

Owner / Designer

Ashe is a contemporary art gallery in Christchurch, where New Zealand art and thoughtful interior design come together. I created Ashe as a welcoming, down-to-earth space to buy art in Christchurch, connect with artists, and explore how art can live beautifully in everyday spaces.

Founded by me, Ashleigh Thompson, Ashe grew from a lifelong love of contemporary art, interiors, and the people who make and enjoy them.

Originally from South Canterbury, I first lived in Ōtautahi Christchurch during the earthquake years before heading overseas and later settling in Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington, where I managed ORA Gallery. My time there deepened my connection to Aotearoa’s creative community and strengthened a long-held goal: to open a gallery of my own that supports artists and makes contemporary art feel accessible.

Now firmly rooted back in Christchurch, my husband and I have called the city home for several years. Opening Ashe in a character building on High Street felt like the right place at the right time - a chance to contribute to the city’s evolving arts and design scene and to help re-establish High Street as a creative destination.

With a background in art history, gallery management, customer service, and interior design, my approach is simple: create a space that feels comfortable, informative, and inspiring. Ashe represents a diverse range of contemporary New Zealand artists and makers, offering original artworks, limited edition prints, sculpture, ceramics, and design objects across a range of price points.

I’m passionate about sharing artist stories, supporting creative practices, and helping people confidently bring art into their homes - whether that’s your first artwork or the next piece in a growing collection. I also offer personalised interior design advice, including in-home artwork viewings (by appointment within Christchurch) and complimentary hanging support.

And when I’m not curating exhibitions or designing spaces, you’ll likely find me admiring - or collecting - mid-century chairs, my one true design weakness.

Woman with shoulder-length brown hair, wearing glasses, a black dress, and black combat boots, sitting on a chair in an art gallery with abstract paintings on the wall.

Qualifications

Bachelor of Arts in Art History & Classics
Diploma of Fine Arts
Diploma of Interior Design

Line drawing of a storefront with a large window and a door, with the name 'ASHE' on the window, and 'Art Gallery' and 'Design Studio' written below.

Est. 2025

Ashe is a locally owned Art Gallery and Interior Design Studio in central Christchurch, celebrating the work of Aotearoa’s artists and makers. We showcase a diverse collection of contemporary New Zealand art and offer personalised interior design services.

Our mission is to make quality art and considered design accessible, welcoming, and inspiring.

Woman with glasses leaning over a table with design materials, color swatches, and papers.
Person examining fabric samples on a wooden table with various design materials and color swatches.

Interior Design Services

What Interior Design Services Does Ashe Offer?

I work collaboratively with clients to deliver practical design solutions that make every space not only functional - but beautiful too.  My process is clear, supportive, and tailored to suit each individual project, no matter the size or budget.

Interior design services are fully customisable, built around your specific needs and goals. I know the building process can feel overwhelming, but that’s what I’m here for - to make it easier, more enjoyable, and a whole lot more inspiring.

  • This is where we get to know each other! I'll learn about your space, your style, and your vision. We'll talk through the scope of your project and your design needs so I can understand how best to support you.

  • Once I've got a sense of your goals, I'll dive deeper into how you use your space and what you're looking to achieve. We'll discuss ideas one-on-one, and I'll provide a tailored design proposal and quote outlining the services that best suit your project.

  • Here comes the fun part! I'll start developing your custom design concepts, including spatial planning, colour schemes, fixtures, fittings, and finishes. This is when your vision really starts to take shape - and you'll begin to see how it all comes together.

  • To keep everything on track, I'll create a detailed design schedule that includes your final selections, product specifications, and design notes - ready to hand over to your builder or contractor. It's your personal roadmap to a beautifully finished space.

Enquire

Claire - Halswell Project

“Ashe took the time to understand what we were trying to achieve and provided practical solutions to create our dream space"

Mike - Te Anau Project

"Ashe kept the vision on track and made sure every detail worked together - right down to the last tile"

Richard - New Artwork Owner

“We walked in and saw a beautiful Nic Foster work which we had to have! Ashe is a stunning gallery with lovely pieces (and at all price ranges). Great for a signature piece or a unique gift. Exciting to have a new owner operated gallery in Christchurch."

Lucy - New Artwork Owner

Ashe is such a lovely space, with so many gorgeous pieces. My friend and I had a wonderful time at the opening, and Ashleigh has been incredibly helpful with the framing process.
Can't wait for my next visit.