Ashley Avis, a talented American director, screenwriter, and producer, was born in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois. She shares her life with her loving husband, Edward Winters, who is also her partner in their Los Angeles-based production company, Winterstone Pictures.
Ashley's career began as a journalist in the bustling metropolis of New York City, where she honed her skills and developed a passion for storytelling. She then transitioned to directing and producing several independent films in her twenties, laying the groundwork for her future success.
In 2020, Ashley wrote, directed, and edited Disney's Black Beauty, a majestic film starring Oscar-winning actress Kate Winslet and Twilight's Mackenzie Foy. This stunning cinematic masterpiece was inspired by Anna Sewell's timeless classic and was an official selection at the 2021 Cameraimage festival. The film received rave reviews from critics, with Richard Roeper of the Chicago Sun-Times describing it as a "gorgeous, sweeping epic".
Ashley's love for horses and her commitment to helping children are evident in her work. She founded a nonprofit organization and went on to create a four-year documentary, Wild Beauty: Mustang Spirit of the West, which premiered in 2022. This poignant film won several prestigious awards, including "Best Director" and "Best Cinematography" at DOCLA, "Best Documentary" at the Boston Film Festival, and "Best Documentary" at the St. Louis International Film Festival. The film not only showcased Ashley's exceptional directing skills but also raised crucial awareness for wild horses and public lands protection.
Ashley currently resides in California with her husband, Edward, and is the founder of The Wild Beauty Foundation.
