Samuel Kugbiyi Black2TheFuture Artist Instagram & Threads: @samkugbiyi and @cuberepublicart About The Artwork Title: In Her Own Image Medium: Digital painting Size: 11" x11" About The Artwork Title: In Her Own Image Medium: Digital painting Size: 11" x11" IN HER OWN IMAGE is a digital painting with animated elements, created as a reflection on the power and responsibility we, as Africans and Africans in the diaspora, hold in shaping our own future. Drawing from concepts of Afrofuturism, It challenges us to critically examine our relationship with technology and artificial intelligence, both of which, like our children, are creations born in our image and entrusted with the legacy of our humanity. This piece is an invitation to question: how do we balance the act of creating and the responsibility of nurturing? By placing one creation—our children and future—in the hands of another—technology and AI—how do we ensure that both remain true to the values and essence of who we are? Accompanying the main work are six preparatory sketches that explore the same themes. These sketches, which informed the final piece, will eventually be developed into fully realized digital paintings, forming a cohesive series that expands on the ideas of identity, creation, and accountability. About The Artist Samuel Kugbiyi is a multidisciplinary artist and storyteller who blends writing, voiceover, acting, visual arts, audio editing, sound design, and directing to create impactful narratives. As a versatile creative, he has contributed his talents to a range of projects, from radio and audio dramas to animation. Notably, Samuel collaborated on the highly anticipated "Iyanu" series with HBO Max and Cartoon Network, set to release in spring 2025. In 2019, Samuel co-founded SAK Productions, a media production company dedicated to crafting stories that inspire and connect audiences. Through this venture, he has partnered with esteemed organizations like UNESCO and Global Rights, contributing to projects that resonate on a global scale.Currently based in Calgary, Samuel wears multiple hats as an actor, theatre producer, audio editor, and sound designer. He is also participating in the Black2TheFuture residency at EMMEDIA Gallery & Production Society, where he explores themes of identity, community, and innovation in contemporary storytelling visual arts. With a passion for merging diverse artistic disciplines, Samuel is constantly seeking new opportunities to collaborate, innovate, and push the boundaries of modern art.
