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 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 dark-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.

Creative Impact Fund Grant Recipient

Issued 2024

Funding is made possible through Arts Services Inc.’s Creative Impact Fund thanks to a New York State Senate Initiative supported by the NYS Legislature and the Office of the Governor, and administered by the New York State Council on the Arts.

Awards and Honors

Gold & Student Best Of Show

Issued by AAF: Buffalo · Jan 2019

Received a Gold Addy and the "Student Best of Show" award during the American Advertising Awards hosted by the American Advertising Federation's Buffalo Branch. The award was given for "Visionary" magazine (Senior Graphic Design Project).

Excellence in Studio Achievement

Issued by Daemen College · Jan 2018

Excellence Awards Ceremony, this annual ceremony is a longstanding Daemen tradition to celebrate our highest-achieving graduating students who have excelled academically and contributed so much to our college community,” -Daemen President Gary Olson.

Gold Addy

Issued by AAF: Buffalo · Jan 2018

Received a Gold Addy in the American Advertising Awards hosted by the American Advertising Federation's Buffalo Branch. The award was given for cover and two-page spread magazine concept design.

Gold & Student Best Of Show

Issued by AAF: Buffalo · Jan 2018

Received a Gold Addy and "Student Best of Show" during the American Advertising Awards hosted by the American Advertising Federation's Buffalo Branch. The award was given for a group project campaign - "See and be Seen" (All High Art Weekend).

Daemen College Undergraduate Art Show - 2nd Honors

Issued by Daemen College VPAC · Jan 2017

Visual & Performing Arts Department annual Undergraduate Exhibit. The show features the work of first, second, and third-year VPA students and is juried by the VPA faculty. Received 2nd Honors for “Woman of Color(s)” fine art piece.

Don Nichols Scholarship

Issued by AAF: Buffalo · Jan 2017

3rd Place - Sponsored by AAF Buffalo, the Don Nichols Scholarship Competition is a student communication contest that honors the memory of Don Nichols.

Dean's List

Issued by Daemen College 2014 - 2018

Received a Dean's List position multiple semesters in attendance at Daemen College. Graduating with honors.

Beau Fleuve Music & Arts Celebration

August 25th, 2024 (Sunday)

Upcoming shows