David Oku, a Nigerian-Italian graphic artist, has teamed up with Mercedes-Benz for an exciting project called “Project Avarosa.” This partnership is not just about advanced design but also about promoting inclusivity, with the League of Legends team, SK Gaming, playing a central role.
David’s eye-catching design for the fully electric Mercedes-Benz EQA 300 4MATIC combines the worlds of esports and high-performance branding in a creative and bold way. His work pays tribute to the unique and diverse female and non-binary athletes who are part of SK Gaming, helping to break down barriers in the gaming industry.
L-M: What advice would you give to Nigerian creators looking to break into international collaborations and work with brands on a similar scale?
David: To truly improve as an artist, I believe the key is consistent effort and dedication to your craft. While some people are naturally gifted, it’s how you develop and use that talent that sets you apart. Make it a habit to create every day, even if it’s just a small sketch or exploring a new technique. Constantly challenging yourself not only sharpens your skills but also keeps you motivated as you watch your progress over time. One of the biggest turning points in my journey was when people started recognising my work without needing to ask—it had developed its own voice, its own identity. That’s when I realised that being unique and authentic in your expression is what truly sets you apart. Don’t hesitate to reach out to others—whether it’s for collaboration or feedback. The worst you’ll hear is “no,” but even then, you’ll gain experience. Surrounding yourself with fellow artists and embracing failure as part of the learning process is essential for growth. Growth comes from pushing through those moments, learning, and evolving.
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L-M: What has been the most rewarding aspect of this collaboration for you as an artist?
David: The most rewarding part of this project was, without a doubt, the opportunity to first conduct a workshop with the Avarosa Team, inspiring them and helping shape their creative vision. Guiding them through the process of creating unique visuals and art was incredibly fulfilling. Then, taking their ideas and transforming them into reality by bringing this amazing car to life was the perfect culmination of that collaborative effort. Seeing those initial concepts evolve into something tangible and impactful was truly a highlight for me.
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L-M: What did you learn from combining art, technology, and gaming on this project?
David: This project really taught me that there are always multiple angles from which you can approach a creative process, and often, things aren’t as straightforward as they seem. To create a cohesive design, you really need to think outside the box. For me, the illustration phase was the easier part—it flowed naturally. But when it came to applying the design to the car, the challenge was finding a way to create something visually appealing for the Avarosa team while also working with the car's existing form. Blending creativity with practicality in this way was a huge learning experience, reminding me how important adaptability is in design.
