Evans Akanyijuka (b. 1999) is a Ugandan digital artist who combines photography, photo manipulation, collage, and artificial intelligence to create hyper-surreal works. In his ongoing series, "Within the Depths of the Unrealized Lies the Potential," he challenges the tendency to dismiss what we do not fully understand. Through this collection, he underscores the significance of objective reasoning and active listening, recognizing that contradictions can offer deeper insights into the mysterious.

 

This philosophy informs his artistic practice as he continuously learns from and draws inspiration from the culture and environment in which he was raised.

 

"I consider my environment to be one of the most vital elements in my artistic process. My home country, Uganda, has profoundly influenced my work through its rich diversity of cultures, belief systems, and people. Approaching my surroundings with an open mind has not only inspired me but also taught me invaluable lessons in personal growth. From the viewer's perspective, I believe that embracing the role of a student of one's environment opens up endless possibilities."

 

To further explore generative AI, he developed a sub-series titled “Symbiosis of Dreams,” envisioning the works as dreams emerging from two distinct minds. This series showcases the interplay between his imagination and that of the AI, with the title capturing the essence of harmonious co-creation—a shared dreaming experience between human and machine.