Artist Interview: Lunick Uri

Joshua Lunick Uri is a self-taught digital artist of Nigerian and Ivorian heritage. His recent body of work, Frozen Beyond Time, captures scenes and encounters of underwater life that educate and inspire humanity, ultimately emphasizing the transformative power of love.

Lunick began his digital art journey during a period of isolation, when graphic design became central to his practice, starting with fashion illustration and expanding into broader art forms. Combining traditional and contemporary techniques, Joshua's art has gained international recognition.

We asked Lunick about his art, creative process, and inspirations.

Can you tell us about your background as a digital artist?

I ventured into the world of digital art due to a gap between my ideas and my initial artistic skills. My imagination was brimming with concepts that felt beyond my current abilities to depict by hand. Fortunately, the evolution of the digital space offered me a new frontier. The advent of graphic design as a professional field provided the tools and techniques I needed to bring my visions to life. I learned to translate my ideas into digital form, finding it a safe space to evolve creatively and effectively.

Graphic design became a cornerstone in my journey towards becoming a digital artist. It began with fashion illustration and soon expanded into broader art forms. Engaging with case studies and conducting research allowed me to create works that educate and inspire humanity. This interdisciplinary approach has been crucial in developing my unique style, which blends cultural influences with contemporary digital techniques.

Being a self-taught artist, the digital realm has been instrumental in harnessing my skills and pushing the boundaries of my creativity. It has empowered me to represent complex narratives and societal reflections in a way that feels both innovative and true to my vision.

What inspires your art? Are there any particular themes or subjects that you enjoy exploring through your artwork?

My art is driven by a deep conviction to educate and share discoveries. I find inspiration in exploring a variety of themes such as the essence of life, spirituality, the evolution of science, and climate functionalities. Every piece I create begins with a fundamental question: What is missing? What does humanity need to be aware of? I aim to uncover insights that can shift our collective understanding towards a better space.

Art, for me, is a channel to creatively access and convey life lessons. I believe that each work should have meaning and intention. If I don't have something significant to say or contribute through my art, I'd rather not create at all. My goal is to ensure that every piece I breathe into the creative space carries a purpose and contributes to a deeper understanding of our world.

Can you tell us about some of your favorite pieces? What makes them special to you?

All of my artworks hold a special place in my heart, but I'd like to highlight two pieces: "War" and "Two Lovers."

While creating "War," I delved deeper into the complexities of life and how humanity has historically used destruction to claim superiority and dominance. This realisation saddened me, prompting me to question the essence of life if dominance and freedom must be achieved through the shedding of precious lives. Why can't peace reign? This cycle of conflict has persisted for centuries since the fall of man, and "War" reflects this ongoing struggle.

"Two Lovers" is a piece that explores the power of love amidst an environment of hatred and toxicity. Love has the ability to create unity and peace despite adverse conditions. The sermon "Love your neighbor as you love yourself" resonates deeply with me, and this piece embodies that message, emphasizing the transformative power of love.

Looking ahead, I have an upcoming research project called "Thermal Vision." This project is a case study on humanity and culture, and I see it as my contribution to contemporary African art. In this work, symbols are represented in the visual form of heat maps and tones, bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary spaces. "Thermal Vision" contributes to the interior art space, science as implemented in art, and African culture, showcasing the evolution and integration of these elements.

Can you share an example of a challenging project you've worked on recently? What were the obstacles you encountered, and how did you overcome them?

Honestly, the most challenging part of my creative process is preparing the message. My whole life revolves around meaning and purpose, and distilling that into a clear narrative can be daunting. However, once I have a narrative to share with the world, it becomes easier to use various creative means to bring that message to life and make an impact.

Understanding the message you want to convey, the problems it addresses, what it teaches, and how it educates humanity are crucial steps. Once these elements are clear, the execution—whether through digital means or hand painting—becomes more straightforward. It's about ensuring that every piece of art not only conveys a message but also resonates deeply with its audience.

You often work with sea creatures – what do they represent in your work?

My father had a deep passion for sea life and the fishing business, and I grew up surrounded by the wonders of the aquatic world. This exposure to diverse marine species left a lasting impression on me and significantly influenced my creative journey. Through my art, I aim to capture the scenes and encounters of underwater life, illustrating how humanity is intrinsically connected to this vibrant ecosystem.

The project, "Frozen Beyond Time," delves into the essence of marine life and the timeless beauty of the underwater world. This series not only showcases the intricate details and stunning visuals of sea creatures but also explores the broader implications of our interactions with the ocean.

As I continue to evolve as an artist, my future projects will build upon the themes and case studies I have encountered. I am committed to using my art to address pressing environmental issues, promote sustainability, and foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Each project will aim to educate and inspire, driving conversations around the protection and preservation of our planet's invaluable resources. Through my work, I hope to create a lasting impact, encouraging viewers to rethink their relationship with the environment and recognize the profound beauty and significance of the underwater world.

What else fills your time when you’re not creating art?

When I'm not creating art, I dedicate my time to a variety of enriching activities. I immerse myself in studying and researching different fields, constantly seeking to expand my knowledge. Building my spiritual life with God is a significant focus for me, as it grounds and guides my creative journey. I also enjoy helping my siblings on their creative paths, supporting and mentoring them as they develop their talents.

Additionally, I'm passionate about learning the business aspects of creativity, particularly in art, fashion, and music. This holistic approach allows me to pursue advanced creativity and understand the intricate connections between different creative industries. Through these pursuits, I aim to continuously grow and evolve as an artist and as an individual.