Jessica Mjoen
Jessica Mjoen is a graphic designer and fine artist based in Buffalo NY. Earning her BFA in Graphic Design in 2018. Born in Côte d'Ivoire West Africa, Jessica infuses her cultural upbringing into modern artwork. Incorporating vibrant colors and patterns inspired by her West African roots.
Her creations comprise rich pastel and painted portraits, featuring melanated figures intended to celebrate skin tone, race, and culture. Through powerful and stoic poses, she brings forth a soft yet commanding presence often overlooked. Dynamic colors, textures, and patterns engage the viewer's gaze, challenging conventional notions of skin tone and race while celebrating the uniqueness of each individual.
Portrayal of darker-skinned individuals as a means of representation and empowerment. Historically, people with darker skin tones, particularly those of African descent, have been underrepresented or misrepresented in art and media. By focusing on melanated figures, the artist aims to amplify their presence and celebrate their beauty and diversity. Upbringing, family background, and personal experiences have instilled a profound appreciation for her African heritage, prompting her to highlight and honor it through her art.
JESSICA MJOEN
Visual Artist & Graphic Designer
B. 1996, Côte d'Ivoire, West Africa
Lives and works in Buffalo, NY
EDUCATION
BFA in Graphic Design
Daemen University, Amherst, NY — 2018
AWARDS & HONORS
2024 — Creative Impact Fund Grant Recipient, Arts Services Inc. (Administered by NYSCA)
2019 — Gold & Student Best of Show, AAF Buffalo
2018 — Gold Addy Award, AAF Buffalo
2018 — Excellence in Studio Achievement, Daemen College
2017 — 2nd Honors, Undergraduate Art Show, VPAC, Daemen University
2017 — Don Nichols Scholarship (3rd Place), AAF Buffalo
2014–2018 — Dean’s List, Daemen College
SELECTED EXHIBITIONS
2026 — Live on Five, Buffalo Arts Studio, Buffalo, NY
2026 — No Label on Inspiration, Buffalo, NY
2025 — Echoes of Africa (Solo Exhibition), WWTS Gallery, Buffalo, NY
2025 — Buffalo Fashion Runway, Buffalo, NY
2024–2025 — Beau Fleuve Music & Arts Celebration, Buffalo Central Terminal
PUBLIC & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
2026 — Saturday Academy (Say Yes Buffalo), Interactive Art Workshop
2026 — Young Queens Empowerment Conference (BestSelf WNY), Workshop Facilitator & Speaker
2025–2026 — East High School/BPS Urban Forum 2026, Interactive Art Series 2025 — Willie Hutch Jones Foundation 40th Anniversary Gala, Donating Artist
PUBLICATIONS & PRESS
2025 — Featured on @Dopeblackart (Instagram)
SKILLS & MEDIA
Mixed Media (Painting, Drawing, Textile Integration)
Graphic Design (Concept Development, Layout, Composition)
Culturally Driven Visual Storytelling
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
2015–2019 — Member, AAF Buffalo
UPCOMING RESIDENCIES
2026 — Artist-in-Residence, Hunt Gallery, Buffalo, NY
CONTACT
Email: jessicamjoencreative@gmail.com
Artist CV
