ASHLEY BROWNING (Pojoaque/Santa Clara Pueblo) got her start as a film and digital media student at the University of New Mexico, working on a documentary project for the United States Forest Service. The short film focused on respecting sacred Native sites and burial grounds at national parks. “I have always loved history,” says the 31-year-old filmmaker, who also works as a graphic designer at Hilton Santa Fe Buffalo Thunder, photographer, 3-D animation artist, and producer of the Pathways Film Festival.
“Making a film that could teach people about cultural differences really ignited my passion for accurate portrayals about New Mexico.” In 2017, Browning received a Sundance Institute Full Circle Fellowship, which led to major studio work, including as an associate producer on Amazon’s Outer Range (2022–2024). Last year, she served as consulting producer on Showtime’s The Curse, a dark-comedy series set in Española starring Emma Stone, Nathan Fielder, and Benny Safdie.
MY CAREER SO FAR HAS BEEN focused on using art to explain and teach our culture from my perspective as a Pueblo woman living in modern society. Some of my artwork uses this blend of ancient and modern to make a statement, like my NDN-opoly Monopoly set. It is a subtle form of conveying really deep topics.
When a filmmaker needs local context or background, consulting producers make substantial contributions to the texture of the story. I was jazzed to work on my home turf in and around Española for The Curse because we revisited some favorite locations. It also provided me with many opportunities to consult with the stars. Emma Stone was so funny and great to work with.
Helping visiting filmmakers reach out to other New Mexican actors and artists is hugely rewarding. I have a deep bench of resources because I have networked with so many colleagues around the state. With this collaborative bond, we can make sure that our stories actually come from the heart, told by us. —As told to Jaima Chevalier