“I’m an artist before I’m a designer”: Daniella Uchendu-Oji on balancing art with digital mediums

Born in Houston, Texas and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, designer and animator Daniella Uchendu-Oji is a star in the making. She focuses her craft across graphic design, 3D and animation, and her portfolio boasts an impressive array of digital art which all feels distinct to her vision. “I’m still learning and growing, so I’m trying to focus on merging 3D, graphic design and animation and create a style out of it I can call my own,” she tells It’s Nice That.

Drawing on subjects which include virtual and augmented reality, social issues and fine art, Daniella makes sure to constantly be on the hunt for something new and exciting to stimulate her creativity. “I’m an artist before I’m a designer,” Daniella explains. As such, her eclectic visual references range from Jean-Michel Basquiat to Zaha Hadid – anything and everything she can get her hands on. Now based in Dallas, Daniella is spending the time perfecting her craft. For someone so early into her career, Daniella’s skill is remarkable. We’re sure the path to success lies ahead for the young designer, and with so much untapped potential there’s no saying where Daniella could go next.