Thessy Daniel

My name is MariaTheresa Ugonna Daniel, and I am a self-taught visual and graphic artist. I specialise in bringing to life the rich beauty of Nigerian women’s fashion, nature, and local cuisine through the use of traditional media such as poster colours, gouache, and coloured pencils. My artistic style is distinctively mine, shaped by years of personal exploration and creative experimentation.

I was born in Owerri, Imo State, and raised across various geopolitical regions of Nigeria. These diverse experiences have deeply influenced my perspective and my work. Currently, I am a self-employed artist and the founder of Tessy D Illustrations, a creative brand I am passionately building from the ground up.

My journey into art began in childhood, when I developed a strong fascination with colour and began sketching fashion illustrations. However, it was in 2017 that I truly recognised art as my calling. Since then, I have been wholeheartedly immersed in my practice, dedicating myself to refining my craft and sharing my unique vision with the world.

For me, art offers a remarkable sense of freedom and self-definition. It isn’t judgmental, it gives me space to embrace who I am, imperfections and all. Through vibrant colour palettes and unconventional techniques, I strive to capture the essence of Nigerian heritage, celebrating our cultural identity in every piece I create.

When I’m not in the studio, I enjoy cooking, reading, and quietly appreciating nature. These simple pleasures often serve as inspiration for my work, grounding me and reminding me of the beauty in everyday life.

As a featured artist on Afriartspace.com, I’m proud to be part of a community that honours the depth and diversity of African creativity. Through my art, I hope to spark joy, inspire cultural pride, and connect with audiences who see a reflection of themselves in my work.