Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashlie Kègo
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My art journey started from a deep-rooted connection to my African heritage and a passion for storytelling through visual expression. From a young age, I was drawn to creativity, but it wasn’t until later that I truly embraced painting as a way to communicate my experiences, culture, and advocacy.
As I honed my craft, my work began gaining recognition, leading to exhibitions in various galleries and even major platforms like Macy’s, West Elm, and the de Young Museum in San Francisco. Along the way, I’ve also used my art to raise awareness for Sickle Cell 101, a cause close to my heart, by donating a portion of my sales.
Beyond painting, I’ve spoken on tech panels for Udemy, Intuit, and NXP Semiconductors, sharing how my interactive artwork bridges creativity and technology. My journey has been one of passion, resilience, and purpose—always seeking ways to inspire, uplift, and make a meaningful impact through my work.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has shaped my journey and strengthened my purpose. As an artist, one of the biggest struggles has been gaining visibility and securing opportunities in a competitive industry. There were times when I questioned whether my work would be seen or valued, but I kept pushing forward, staying true to my vision.
Another challenge has been balancing the business side of art while remaining authentic to my creative process. Learning how to market my work, navigate exhibitions, and advocate for fair opportunities took time and persistence.
Additionally, as someone who uses my art to raise awareness for sickle cell disease, it has been both an emotional and financial challenge to sustain my advocacy efforts while growing my career. However, seeing my work exhibited and connecting with people who resonate with my message, makes every struggle worth it.
Through it all, I’ve learned that resilience, community, and staying true to my purpose are what keep me moving forward.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a visual artist, educator, and advocate, specializing in African-inspired artwork that reflects my cultural heritage and personal experiences. My work is known for its bold colors, geometric patterns, and storytelling elements, often exploring themes of identity, resilience, and community.
I’m most proud of how my art has created meaningful impact—whether through exhibitions at Macy’s, West Elm, and the de Young Museum or by using my platform to raise awareness for sickle cell disease through Sickle Cell 101, where I donate a portion of my sales.
What sets me apart is my ability to bridge art, education, and advocacy in a way that uplifts and inspires. Beyond painting, I’ve also spoken on tech panels for Udemy, Intuit, and NXP Semiconductors, showcasing how my interactive artwork merges creativity with technology.
At the heart of everything I do is a deep desire to tell stories, spark conversations, and leave a lasting impact—whether through my art, teaching, or community engagement.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Growing up in a house with five siblings was a beautiful, chaotic, and love-filled experience. Our home was always full of laughter, energy, and togetherness, especially during the holidays. Christmas and Thanksgiving were the best times—our house became the gathering place for family and friends, filled with delicious food, music and so much joy.
One of my favorite childhood memories was waking up early on Christmas morning, all of us rushing to the tree, the excitement buzzing in the air. We’d open gifts, but what I cherished most was the feeling of togetherness—everyone in their pajamas, the smell of home-cooked meals in the air, and the sound of pure happiness echoing through the house.
It wasn’t just about the holidays, though. Every day in our home was filled with love, creativity, and a strong sense of family, and that foundation shaped who I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Ashliekegoart.com
- Instagram: Akegoart
- Facebook: Ashlie Kego
- LinkedIn: Ashlie Kego
Popular
-
What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
-
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
-
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
-
Life, Lessons, & Legacies
-
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
-
Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
