About the Artist
ASHLEY KOUDOU, an Ivorian-American digital illustrator based in Northeast Minneapolis, merges traditional craftsmanship with contem- porary concepts through her exploration of West African design. Her artwork delves into the nuances of culture and identity, reflecting the diverse perspectives of her life as a Black woman. Ashley is also the founder of Mango Day, a hybrid design agency and retail space focused on branding for small businesses, nonprofits, and artist initiatives, primarily serving communities of color. Her work champions the transformative power of creativity, aiming to foster a supportive environment for artistic expression within these communities.
About the Artwork
NEW MOVES
I created this piece during a transitional moment in my career. Having just been accepted into a community art studio program, I made the bold decision to leave behind my job in advertising, stepping fully into the unknown. This work became a symbol of that leap—looking forward to 'new moves' and embracing the shift ahead. I wanted to capture a sense of momentum and liveliness through the figure, even as the background remains intentionally ambiguous, reflecting the uncertainty of what comes next. The twinkle next to the figure—there's uncertainty if it’s even real—but the subject still moves, trusting in it and herself.
When reflecting on the theme, I think about the ambiguity and uncertainty I still have in my own life, but the piece keeps me hopeful. Hopeful for a future I can create or imagine. Even if the path isn’t clear yet, I know I can still shine.
About the Artist
ASHLEY KOUDOU, an Ivorian-American digital illustrator based in Northeast Minneapolis, merges traditional craftsmanship with contem- porary concepts through her exploration of West African design. Her artwork delves into the nuances of culture and identity, reflecting the diverse perspectives of her life as a Black woman. Ashley is also the founder of Mango Day, a hybrid design agency and retail space focused on branding for small businesses, nonprofits, and artist initiatives, primarily serving communities of color. Her work champions the transformative power of creativity, aiming to foster a supportive environment for artistic expression within these communities.
About the Artwork
NEW MOVES
I created this piece during a transitional moment in my career. Having just been accepted into a community art studio program, I made the bold decision to leave behind my job in advertising, stepping fully into the unknown. This work became a symbol of that leap—looking forward to 'new moves' and embracing the shift ahead. I wanted to capture a sense of momentum and liveliness through the figure, even as the background remains intentionally ambiguous, reflecting the uncertainty of what comes next. The twinkle next to the figure—there's uncertainty if it’s even real—but the subject still moves, trusting in it and herself.
When reflecting on the theme, I think about the ambiguity and uncertainty I still have in my own life, but the piece keeps me hopeful. Hopeful for a future I can create or imagine. Even if the path isn’t clear yet, I know I can still shine.
Website + Socials
Website: www.ashleykoudou.com
Instagram: @fromashleyk
Website + Socials
Website: www.ashleykoudou.com
Instagram: @fromashleyk