Meet Ashley Owen | Communication Design Student

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

Hi Ashley, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I taught myself to draw when I was about 12 years old, and it greatly changed my life. When I was in middle school, I had to trade my physical school and friends for online courses and doctor’s appointments due to health conditions. During that time, I was pretty much isolated, but drawing allowed me to make my life whatever I wanted it to be. I returned to physical school in high school, and my love for art carried on with me. Taking AP Art classes along with being Editor-in-Chief of the Yearbook led me to a stronger appreciation for design. Now, I am a Communication Design major with a concentration in Graphic Design. I chose this field because I love that design gives me the ability to impact others. I am interested in all art forms – specifically print and digital applications of design – but in all aspects, I always try to imagine the viewer and how what I create will influence them. The main goal I apply to my projects is to make a finished product that can benefit or simplify the life of the user. I try to make things understandable rather than just pretty. Of course, I appreciate beautiful design and also prioritize aesthetics, but I take pride in knowing that I am able to do something with what I create. I think my experiences with health problems made me want to make a difference. I want to solve important problems and make others happy – I love knowing that my creations can leave a mark on the world.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I began as a traditional artist, working primarily with colored pencils, graphite, charcoal, and ink. I still love to draw, but digital applications of design are more suited to me. I have always loved technology since I was a child, and I pick up on new programs fairly quickly. Being Editor of the yearbook and working with InDesign for the first time in high school showed me that art could be more than something created on a piece of paper. At that point, I realized that graphic design was something that I could pursue, allowing me to combine my traditional art skills with my love for technology. As an aspiring graphic designer, I am always learning more and trying to grow my skills. I think what sets me apart is that I have a strong work ethic and high standards for myself. I spend a lot of time on my projects, trying to perfect them and make them something I am proud of. However, I have been trying to learn how to step back and take time for myself as well. I also have never felt very self-confident in my artistic abilities – even labeling myself as an “artist” can make me uncomfortable. I have learned a lot during my time at University, and the ability to present myself and my work with confidence has strongly improved. Even still, I always think I can improve myself and my work – once I finish a project, I am ready to move onto the next one and create something better.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Honestly, this is very boring, but I am a huge homebody. I would much rather stay inside with my best friend and hang out. If I had to choose places to go, I would probably say that I really enjoy going to art museums and thrift stores. I love discovering new things, and both of those places allow me to do that. I also love any place that serves coffee – it’s a staple for Communication Design students.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I think that the Terry Foundation has been a big factor in my success. It truly is like a huge, supportive family, and I have met some of my closest friends through the organization at UNT. I also owe everything I have learned to the Communication Design program at UNT. My professors have had an invaluable impact on me, and my friends in the program are such incredibly talented individuals who inspire me. My family has also always been there for me and wanted me to pursue what made me happy. I appreciate everyone in my life who encourages me to believe in myself – I probably would not be able to do anything without them.

Website: https://www.behance.net/ashley-owen

Image Credits
Tania Franco Klein.