An Architect Major from Nigeria who led a Career in Creative Direction: Daniel Akang
By Nicole Morris
Published: September 25, 2020
Who is Daniel Akang?
I’m a visual artist/graphic designer born and raised in Nigeria.
What is something that most people do not know about you?
I have an architecture degree and half way through my masters program at the moment.
What sparked your interest in graphic design?
Back in high school I had a family friend who was a photographer and he had this sick way of blending his photos with design and it was really cool to back then. I figured I’d try it out, but as I grew, my interest shifted more towards design than photography...Yes, I tried photography, but I’ve been designing ever since.
I have been following your work for quite some time and love your most recent collages. Where do you gain inspiration for your designs?
I see what people and doing and I try to do it better, or make it look cooler than it already is, or try taking it in a different direction.
What are some of the services you offer?
I offer graphic design, creative direction, and design consulting services.
What do you love the most about creative direction?
I love when clients allow me to bring their ideas to life without any external influence from friends, managers, etc.
How would you describe your creative process when developing your artwork?
50% trial and error, 50% inspiration from things around me like the internet, and things happening in my life at the moment. I always try my best to learn and try out something new every time.
Tell me about a special projects that you have worked on in the past?
I worked on the rollout for Moneybagg Yo’s album, Reset, in 2018 but it never got used. Kinda hurts cause the timeframe given was short and a lot of effort was put into it. Hundreds of photos and revisions.
As an artist, what is the most valuable lesson that you have learned over the course of your career?
Take your time to learn and stop trying to impress people around you. I see people chasing clout these days and not trying to put in the work and they get burnt out in the process, so its really not worth it rushing anything.
How have your experiences as an artist shaped your current design style?
The urge to learn more and do better. My goal for this year was to always make sure whatever I put out is better than the post before and I guess I’ve stuck with it thus far.
As an artist, what is the best advice that you have received?
Work hard and don't quit too early...Valid in all aspects of life.
How can we stay connected with your work? (social media, websites, etc.)
I post all of my work on Twitter @akangudaniel and Instagram @akang.png. I also have a separate account for a special design project I’m running, @objinspc, and I’m open to collaborations on that. My website contains my most recent projects and shop for prints www.danielakang.net.