His work has significantly evolved over the years, transitioning from graphic design to more abstract forms of art, all while maintaining a unique voice that resonates with viewers. After completing high school, Dani pursued a two-year graphic design program from 2016 to 2018. During this phase, he discovered his affinity for illustration, which became a pivotal part of his artistic identity. Following his formal education, he took an unconventional route by self-teaching, exploring various artistic mediums, and honing his skills through experimentation.
In 2018, Dani briefly ventured into the tattooing profession. However, he quickly realized that this path did not resonate with him, prompting him to return to his first love—illustration. By 2021, he fully embraced the freelance lifestyle, producing a diverse array of small-scale ink drawings and paintings characterized by his distinctive figurative abstract style.
Reflecting on his artistic journey, Dani shared, “The biggest turning point for me was a transformative period in 2019. By then, I had already been working with trauma release for some time, which involved experiencing very difficult states. I went through a lot during that time, allowing me to get closer to myself. It was then that the graphic style I have been developing ever since began to emerge. Looking back, I can see the parallel between the subconscious healing processes and the unfolding of my painting. Perhaps that was when I started to realize that I wanted to work not only with creation but also with the human psyche.”
Dani’s artistic endeavors gained momentum in 2022 when he participated in a three-week residency program at Budapest Hybridcycle, known as Tiszta Balaton. The works he produced during this residency were showcased in several group exhibitions across the country, further establishing his presence as a noteworthy artist. Additionally, he engaged in several nature-themed group exhibitions, collaborating with the Hybridart pop-up gallery. Notably, 2022 marked a significant milestone in his career with his first solo exhibition, aptly titled “Balance,” held at the Easy Art Space in Budapest. This exhibition highlighted Dani’s unique perspective on the interconnectedness of life, emphasizing the harmony inherent in nature. This collaboration not only showcased Dani’s artistic capabilities but also positioned him within the literary and artistic communities of Hungary.
The year 2023 signified a critical turning point in Dani’s artistic expression. Feeling constrained by the world of illustration, he took a step back to reassess his approach to art. During this introspective phase, he began exploring larger canvases and further developing his techniques. In his words, “I draw from the dynamism of instinctive movements, as I believe they effectively express the continuous flow present in nature and the trust behind it—the purity of being in the here and now.”
This shift allowed him to experiment with concepts and methods that amplified his expressive capabilities. Dani’s artistic philosophy centers around the concept of balance—the idea that all elements in nature are interconnected, creating a harmonious whole. He is deeply inspired by the intuitive qualities observed in the natural world. To him, these elements serve as perfect channels of energy, embodying a primal trust that resonates with the very essence of existence.
In his artistic practice, Dani emphasizes conscious presence and the importance of maintaining a state of awareness. He strives to translate raw, instinctive emotions into his artwork, capturing the dynamism behind thoughts and feelings. The animal kingdom profoundly inspires him, reminding him of the underlying trust that facilitates transubstantiation and continuous circulation in nature.
Dani’s approach to art is characterized by flow—a methodology wherein every line and point serves the purpose of guiding the viewer’s eye. This technique creates a sense of dynamism within his compositions, which increasingly lean towards abstraction, departing from his earlier, more figurative works. He adheres to the principle of “less is more,” focusing on retaining the character of his pieces while exploring new depths in abstraction.
As he continues to develop his style, Dani remains committed to expanding his portfolio and showcasing his artwork to broader audiences. Having gained confidence in his artistic voice, he plans to apply for open calls and seize opportunities to further engage with the art community.
Dani Selyebi’s artistic journey reveals a narrative of growth, exploration, and a profound connection with nature. His dedication to expressing the balance and interconnectedness of life through art has positioned him as a distinctive voice in the contemporary art scene. As he pushes the boundaries of his creativity and expands his repertoire, there is no doubt that Dani’s innovative spirit and passion will leave a lasting impact on the art world for years to come. His upcoming projects and exhibitions will surely captivate audiences and contribute to a deeper understanding of the intricate relationships between art, nature, and emotion.
Photo credits: The photographs are from the artist’s archive.