Maxwell DeWunmi, a digital artist, illustrator, and graphic designer from Nigeria, is redefining the landscape of contemporary digital art with his unique blend of dystopian themes and surrealist aesthetics. Raised in the northern central city of Jos and now based in Lagos, DeWunmi’s artistic journey is a testament to the power of self-discovery and creative evolution. He is a lover of beauty and uses 3d software to create simple but striking visuals and illustrations. He explores themes of abstraction, spirituality and futurism in his work, which is heavily inspired by portrait, photography, surrealism and the anatomy.
DeWunmi’s early foray into the world of digital art was marked by a strong desire to infuse his creations with distinctly African elements. However, as he delved deeper into his craft, he discovered that his most compelling work emerged when he tapped into his personal inspirations and interests, rather than adhering to a preconceived notion of cultural representation.
“I first started as a graphic designer in 2020,” DeWunmi recounts. “I had a day job and learned to design for marketing and advertising purposes. I loved the experience I gained from it but at some point it wasn’t enough for me to express myself and my ideas. I wanted to make more expressive work.” This pursuit of personal expression led him to experiment with photographic compositions and photo manipulations in Photoshop, which served as a stepping stone to his current focus on 3D art.
The transition to 3D art marked a significant turning point in DeWunmi’s career. The freedom and flexibility offered by 3D software allowed him to fully explore and articulate his vision of a beautifully dystopian reality. His works are characterized by their intricate textures, vibrant colors, and otherworldly forms—each piece a visual exploration of themes that deviate from traditional representations of reality.
DeWunmi’s art is deeply inspired by his observations of nature and the world around him. He takes a profound look at these elements, seeking ways to abstract and reinterpret them into aesthetically pleasing, yet thought-provoking, forms. His creations reflect a harmonious blend of balance, simplicity, and intricate design, reflecting his love for music and beautifully crafted things.
Despite his success, DeWunmi remains a self-taught artist, continually honing his skills and pushing the boundaries of his craft.
