Hidden Layers: Diversity in Design.

David Oku
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  • Society & Culture

The industry sees the surface. We reveal the layers. Hidden Layers: Diversity in Design centres the voices of designers whose stories have been overlooked but whose impact is undeniable. Through unfiltered conversations, we explore how Black, Brown, and marginalised creatives are building careers, shaping culture, and expanding what design looks like. Representation isn’t optional. It’s foundational. New episodes twice a month.

  1. Episode 17: From B&W to Bold Typography | Design, Burnout & Creative Growth -with Hust Wilson

    2d ago

    Episode 17: From B&W to Bold Typography | Design, Burnout & Creative Growth -with Hust Wilson

    In this episode of Hidden Layers: Diversity in Design, David sits down with Hust Wilson, a graphic designer and lettering artist based in Johannesburg, South Africa, to explore the evolution of his creative journey. Hust shares how he began drawing as a child, moved from hyper-realistic black-and-white portraits into lettering, and built a style shaped by typography, tattoo culture, dance, and experimentation across 3D, animation, and branding. They also discuss the realities of creative burnout, the importance of rest, and why staying curious matters for long-term growth. The conversation goes deeper into the power of community, the value of mentorship, and how social media has changed for artists. Hust opens up about believing in your work, pushing ideas into action, and creating art that inspires rather than just performs online. If you’re a designer, lettering artist, or creative looking for motivation and a fresh perspective on staying authentic in your craft, this episode is for you.

    50 min
  2. Episode 16: Finding Your Authentic Voice - with Maxime Manga

    5d ago

    Episode 16: Finding Your Authentic Voice - with Maxime Manga

    What happens when you reject expectations and create entirely on your own terms? In Episode 16 of Hidden Layers, we sit down with Maxime Manga, a self-taught multidisciplinary artist from Cameroon whose journey from drawing manga as a child to creating emotionally charged collage artworks is a masterclass in authenticity, resilience, and fearless self-expression. Maxime shares how he walked away from a medical career to pursue art full-time, why he refuses to compromise his creative vision, and how he transforms everyday materials—including discarded paper, cigar ash, and digital tools like Photoshop—into powerful visual narratives. We also explore the deeper themes behind his work: vulnerability, masculinity, rebellion, identity, and the importance of staying true to your voice in a world that constantly encourages conformity. In this episode, you'll discover:How Maxime taught himself art from childhood manga drawingsWhy he left medicine to pursue a creative careerHis unique collage process using unconventional materialsHow emotion drives every piece he createsThe challenges facing emerging artists in Cameroon and across AfricaMaintaining artistic integrity while working with commercial clientsThe power of collaboration and creative communityWhy persistence and long-term thinking are essential for artistic successBreaking stereotypes around masculinity, vulnerability, and self-expression Whether you're an artist, designer, creative entrepreneur, or simply someone searching for the courage to pursue your passion, this conversation offers an inspiring reminder that your greatest work begins when you embrace your authentic self.

    57 min
  3. Episode 15: Finding Your Visual Language with Russell Abrahams aka Yay Abe

    Jun 22

    Episode 15: Finding Your Visual Language with Russell Abrahams aka Yay Abe

    What separates artists who get noticed from those who get remembered? In Episode 15, we sit down with Cape Town-based multidisciplinary artist Russell Abrahams, better known as @yay_abe, to explore how developing a distinctive visual language became the catalyst for transforming his creative career. From illustration and murals to sculpture and international exhibitions, Russell shares how consistency in style and storytelling helped him build a recognisable artistic identity across multiple mediums. He unpacks the process of finding your creative voice, why visual language matters more than trends, and how artists can use it to create deeper connections with audiences and opportunities alike. We also dive into the realities of building a sustainable career in the arts. Russell offers practical insights on navigating creative challenges, overcoming industry limitations, creating multiple income streams, and cultivating a supportive community that fuels long-term growth. Throughout the conversation, Russell reflects on his journey from sketching anime characters as a young boy to becoming one of South Africa's most exciting contemporary visual artists. He discusses experimentation, colour theory, perseverance, and the importance of staying true to your values while pursuing creative excellence.

    53 min
  4. Episode 14: Art, Confidence & Creative Resilience - with Troy Browne

    May 28

    Episode 14: Art, Confidence & Creative Resilience - with Troy Browne

    Step into the boundary-pushing world of Troy Browne, a UK-based multimedia artist whose collage work blends emotion, experimentation, and storytelling in bold new ways. In this episode, Troy opens up about his unconventional journey into the creative industry, from lacking confidence as a young artist to becoming a respected freelancer known for combining collage, animation, 3D, and illustration into immersive visual experiences. He shares how the uncertainty of COVID became a turning point in his career, sparking an explosion of creative output that reshaped his artistic direction and helped him discover his voice. Troy discusses the emotional realities of freelancing, including self-doubt, client feedback, burnout, and learning to value your work enough to charge what you deserve. He also reflects on balancing creative ambition with parenthood, while continuing to push boundaries through future projects like animated storytelling, video game development, and long-form exhibitions. Perfect for artists, freelancers, and creatives navigating uncertainty, this episode is a powerful reminder that resilience, adaptability, and authenticity are often the foundations of meaningful creative success. Troy’s story proves that late bloomers are real, experimentation is essential, and your biggest breakthroughs can come from the most unexpected moments.

    43 min
  5. Episode 13: Dream Bigger, Create Braver: Culture, Identity & Illustration - with Kush Janda

    May 6

    Episode 13: Dream Bigger, Create Braver: Culture, Identity & Illustration - with Kush Janda

    Explore the vibrant world of Kush, a British Asian illustrator whose art celebrates culture and defies convention. In this episode, Kush shares her journey from a creatively rich childhood to finding her unique voice through bold, detailed visuals. Her work blends fantasy, fashion, and cultural storytelling, challenging stereotypes and embracing individuality. Kush discusses the importance of community, visibility, and self-belief in achieving creative success. She opens up about balancing commercial projects with personal passion and the challenges faced as a Black South Asian artist. Her story is a testament to the power of authenticity and cultural pride in art. Perfect for emerging artists and creatives from marginalised communities, this episode will inspire you to embrace your true self and challenge industry norms. Kush's insights encourage you to dream bigger and create a legacy rooted in honesty and cultural pride.

    39 min
  6. Episode 12: The Surprising Power of Showing Up — with Vanessa Belleau

    May 1

    Episode 12: The Surprising Power of Showing Up — with Vanessa Belleau

    In this episode, we sit down with Vanessa Belleau, an executive coach and culture consultant turned abstract painter. Vanessa shares her journey from dance to art, revealing how burnout led her to discover painting as a powerful creative outlet and new path forward. We explore the challenges of navigating the art world as a Black artist and the importance of authenticity, representation, and community in fostering creativity. Vanessa reflects on how showing up consistently and embracing her unique voice reshaped both her artistic practice and her life. The conversation dives into the need for genuine support networks, breaking free from societal expectations, and pursuing creative passions with confidence. This episode is a reminder that embracing your individuality and sharing your story can become the most powerful catalyst for transformation.

    58 min
  7. Episode 11: Collective Support as the Key to Breaking Creative Barriers - with Wumi Olaosebikan

    Apr 20

    Episode 11: Collective Support as the Key to Breaking Creative Barriers - with Wumi Olaosebikan

    In this episode, we sit down with Wumi Olaosebikan (aka @wumzum), a London-born creative who refuses to follow a single artistic lane. Wumi shares how blending Afro influences with manga and Japanese culture shaped his path from a childhood passion in London into mural work, comics, 3D art, and game design. We explore how anime like Samurai Champloo and Ghost in the Shell helped shape his visual language and pushed him toward immersive digital storytelling. Wumi also breaks down the inspiration behind his comic Quad Squad and how he uses street art and storytelling to reflect on gentrification and community displacement. The conversation dives into building a creative career outside traditional routes, the importance of mentorship and community, and navigating systemic barriers in the industry. This episode is a reminder that your identity and diverse influences can become your greatest creative advantage.

    44 min
  8. Episode 10: Finding Her Niche. A Designer Who Refuses to Be Boxed In - with Savanah Shannalee Thorpe

    Apr 13

    Episode 10: Finding Her Niche. A Designer Who Refuses to Be Boxed In - with Savanah Shannalee Thorpe

    In this episode, we focus on Savanah Shannalee Thorpe, a.k.a. Nalee, and her journey as a brand designer. She shares her experiences in the design industry, her educational background, and her passion for integrating music into her branding work. Nalee discusses the challenges of finding her niche and the importance of community and networking in the creative field. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI on design, the role of social media in marketing, and the need for more supportive spaces for young designers. Nalee emphasizes her desire to remain hands-on in the design process and her aspirations to work with multiple brands, particularly in the music industry. The episode concludes with Nalee sharing her social media handles and discussing her plans to refresh her personal brand.

    31 min
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About

The industry sees the surface. We reveal the layers. Hidden Layers: Diversity in Design centres the voices of designers whose stories have been overlooked but whose impact is undeniable. Through unfiltered conversations, we explore how Black, Brown, and marginalised creatives are building careers, shaping culture, and expanding what design looks like. Representation isn’t optional. It’s foundational. New episodes twice a month.

Information

  • Creator
    David Oku
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 David Oku