Ashley Gabrielle Delgado

Ashley is a pencil and ink illustrator based in St. Louis, deeply inspired by nature and the human element. Her lifelong fascination with nature and the folklore that surrounds it drives her artistic vision. Through her illustrations, she aims to revive a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world and the rich stories it holds.

Drawing from her Mexican and Indigenous background, Ashley weaves elements of her families culture and esthetics into her work, striving to represent her ancestors and their narratives with authenticity and respect. Her art attempts to honor these legacies as well as mental health bringing it to the forefront of contemporary conversation. In a time where many are seeking to reclaim their spiritual and mental well-being, Ashley strives to emphasize the importance of reconnecting with our pasts, even when they involve painful histories. This journey of reconnection is challenging, and is deeply rooted in vulnerability but it ultimately makes us stronger. By destigmatizing pain and viewing it as a natural part of the human experience, we begin to heal.

Ashley’s artistry strives to go beyond visual representation; her writing accompanies her illustrations, weaving narratives that delve into the complexities of facing our inner darkness. She believes that acknowledging and embracing our mistakes is crucial to our humanity. Our culture often glorifies strength, but without understanding the stories behind it, this strength remains superficial. True resilience comes from owning our shadows and learning to love ourselves and others in their presence.

Through her work, Ashley encourages viewers to explore self-discovery, acceptance, and growth regardless of how long the journey. She aims to create a deeper understanding and connection among people, promoting a more compassionate and inclusive perspective to mental health, cultural reconnection and recognition for the natural world we tend to overlook every day.