Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Uduak-obong Dan. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Uduak-obong with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
My work ethic is a combination of personal values and the inspiration I draw from my surroundings and experiences. Growing up, I was taught the importance of dedication and discipline, and these principles have stayed with me as I’ve progressed as an artist. But it’s also deeply fueled
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
As a figurative painter, my journey has been about more than just creating art—it’s been a journey of self-discovery and connecting with others on a deeper level. My work is rooted in the human experience, capturing moments that reveal a sense of innocence and unity. Through oil and acrylic painting, I bring my main figures to life, while the backgrounds are an expression of pure, childlike creativity, using acrylic markers for spontaneous, freeform drawings. This style reflects my belief in the simplicity and openness of childhood, a time when divisions like skin color, religion, or origin are irrelevant.
What I find most exciting about my art is this duality—blending the skills I’ve developed over time with the unfiltered joy of a child’s imagination. Each piece becomes a celebration of life, a reminder to embrace that sense of freedom and connection we all experienced at some point in our lives.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey as an artist are discipline, adaptability, and a sense of curiosity.
1. Discipline: Art may look freeform, but it requires consistent effort and dedication. Discipline helped me build a solid foundation in techniques like oil and acrylic painting, which are essential to my figurative work. My advice to those starting out is to set a routine and commit to it, even on days when inspiration feels low. Discipline is what turns occasional creativity into a sustainable practice.
2. Adaptability: Over time, my style has evolved, and I’ve embraced new techniques and ways of thinking. This adaptability allowed me to discover a unique voice, blending skilled figurative work with the playful, childlike backgrounds I create today. For those early in their journey, I’d encourage you to stay open to change. Experiment with new materials, styles, and ideas. Art grows as you do, so give yourself the freedom to evolve.
3. Curiosity: A genuine curiosity about people, life, and the world keeps my work fresh and meaningful. This curiosity led me to observe and capture the innocence and connection we often overlook in our daily lives. For new artists, never stop learning and observing. Travel, read, watch people, ask questions—curiosity will inspire your work and keep it alive.
Incorporating these qualities into your journey will not only refine your skills but will also help you stay connected to the deeper purpose of creating art.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
In the past 12 months, my biggest area of growth has been allowing my inner child to take over the backgrounds in my work. This shift has transformed my style, adding a layer of spontaneity and innocence to my pieces. Initially, I approached painting with a more traditional mindset, focused on precision and technique, but now I’ve embraced a balance between structured figurative work and freeform, childlike expression.
This approach has not only made my work more dynamic and personal but has also helped me connect with a broader audience. It’s been a freeing experience that has reminded me to appreciate the simplicity and openness of childhood—qualities that resonate universally. Embracing this change has deepened my artistic voice and made my work feel more authentic and joyful.
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