Turning Shadow Work into Surreal Collage Art: Unknown Deity

Apr 18

Written By DAB

By Cansu Peker

Unknown Deity is a collage artist based in Charm City, Maryland, whose work centers around the process of transmutation — transforming emotion and experience into evocative visual language. Through layered, surreal compositions, Unknown Deity explores the depths of the human condition, offering viewers gentle reminders that we’re never truly alone.

Much of Unknown Deity’s earlier work draws from personal shadow work, shaped by experiences with religion, toxic relationships, and the loneliness of growing up in a chaotic home. Art became a form of alchemy — a way to process, release, and transform pain into something meaningful. Now, her collages often walk the line between the real and the surreal, creating daydream-like spaces that feel both intimate and otherworldly.

We asked Unknown Deity about her art, creative process, and inspirations.

Can you tell us about your background as a digital artist? How did you get started in this field?

In March of 2023, an app called ‘Shuffles’ popped up on my feed. I had never seen anything like it. You could snag images from Pinterest and collage them. I was immediately hooked and would be up until 3AM making these collages. From there, I would post them to my Instagram and Tumblr. I slowly branched out to Reddit, where I began receiving some really insightful responses which inspired me to keep creating. Later that year, I sent a few collages I had made into a small art magazine and was published for the first time! I’m looking forward to being published again this April.

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

Most of my earlier work was greatly influenced by my venture into shadow work. I had begun making art as a form transmutation, to alchemize what I was experiencing. A lot of it was inspired by growing up religious, living in an abusive household, being in toxic relationships, and feeling alone in the world. However, I enjoy creating collages that have more of a surrealistic, daydreamy feel. As if I could recreate a dream or a place to escape the mundane. I love that walking that very thin line between reality and what lies beyond.

You remind viewers that we are never truly alone. How does that belief influence your art?

Honestly, it was kind of the other way around. After I began sharing my art, I realized that I had connected with so many individuals in an entirely new way—that really provided such a comfort for me. I was able to open up to the possibility that my original belief of being alone, wasn’t necessarily true. It’s important to challenge our beliefs and I think that has helped me become more confident in my art and better about sharing it.

Have there been any surprising or memorable responses to your work?

The first time someone said they wanted to walk through a gallery of my work, I felt so honored, I had never even thought of having my work in a gallery. Another time, someone wrote several paragraphs in response to a piece I had posted. That really blew my mind, that someone would take the time to sit with my art and share what they received in such a detailed way. It really got me thinking that I’ve found something worth nurturing—and then of course, when your art starts getting hundreds or thousands of likes on socials. That’s always memorable!

What is a dream project you’d like to make one day?

I’d love to fill a gallery! I’d have my art displayed on digital screens. Some sort of cave-like, dark gallery to host a sound healing ceremony, tarot readings, maybe an aura photographer. I’d love to create an ‘experience’ with other artists and make it something worth attending!