Meet Ashlie Kègo | Artist, Teacher, advocate for Sickle Cell Disease

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashlie Kègo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashlie, why did you pursue a creative career?
I chose to pursue my artistic career because it allows me to connect deeply with my cultural heritage and express personal experiences in a way that resonates with others. Through my art, I can inspire and engage with the world, advocating for causes that matter to me, like raising awareness for Sickle Cell. It’s also a powerful medium for storytelling, providing an outlet for my creativity while giving back to the community. Ultimately, my art is a reflection of my passion to make a difference through beauty, meaning, and connection.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is a reflection of my cultural heritage and personal journey, blending traditional African influences with contemporary techniques. What sets my work apart is its deep connection to my identity and my passion for advocacy. I use my platform to raise awareness for causes close to my heart, like Sickle Cell, and donate a portion of my artwork sales to support nonprofit work.

What I’m most proud of is the impact my art has on others, whether it’s through exhibitions or collaborations with organizations that share my vision. I’m excited by the opportunities I’ve had to feature my work in places like the de Young Museum and in commercial spaces like Macy’s and West Elm.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been a long and challenging journey. It wasn’t easy, but the support of my family, especially my son and my mentor Mr. Stephan Bruce, has made all the difference. I’ve faced hurdles along the way, from navigating the competitive art world to managing the business side of things, but faith and perseverance have kept me moving forward.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of building genuine connections and never being afraid to ask for help. God has placed incredible people in my path, and that network has been invaluable to my growth.

Through Ashlie Kègo Art, I want the world to know that my work is more than just about creating beautiful pieces—it’s about using art as a tool for storytelling, education, and social change. My brand is rooted in authenticity, cultural pride, and a desire to make a meaningful impact through every brushstroke.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the best of the Bay Area, blending art, culture, great food, and some good vibes.

Day 1: We’d start with a classic San Francisco experience by walking across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, taking in the stunning views. Afterward, we’d head over to my favorite restaurant, Roka Akor, for an amazing dinner. The Japanese cuisine there is unforgettable.

Day 2: We’d set aside time for some creative fun—painting and sipping! With nice music, wine, and a few art supplies, we’d relax and let our creativity flow. There’s nothing better than creating something beautiful with good company.

Day 3: The night would be all about live music! We’d head downtown for some dancing to live conga music—there’s something magical about the rhythm that makes nights unforgettable.

Day 4: A day trip to Monterey would be perfect. We’d explore the cute galleries in town, appreciating the local art scene. It’s a great spot for inspiration and has such a peaceful, seaside vibe.

Day 5: Back in the city, we’d explore some of San Francisco’s vibrant neighborhoods, like the Mission District, for murals and street art. Maybe we’d grab a bite at a local food truck or one of my favorite spots in the area.

Day 6: To cap off the week, I’d take my friend to some lesser-known local gems—parks, cafes, and maybe even a hidden beach or two. We’d end the day with a casual dinner at a cozy spot, reflecting on all the fun and creativity we shared.

This week would be a mix of adventure, art, and priceless memories!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give all glory and thanks to God for connecting me to the right people who have helped guide and support me through this incredible journey. His grace has truly paved the way. A heartfelt shout-out to my family for always encouraging and supporting me through my art journey—you are my foundation. To my amazing son, who’s always there to help me transport these large paintings from exhibition to exhibition, rain or shine, your strength and dedication mean the world to me. And to my mentor, Mr. Stephan Bruce, thank you for your guidance and always looking out for me. I am deeply grateful for each of you!

Website: https://Ashliekegoart.com

Instagram: Akegoart

Linkedin: Ashlie Kego

Youtube: Ashlie Kego