Explore Enigmatic Humaliens: Afrofuturism Beyond Imagination

The Artistic Vision of Eric Ande Tanauh

Eric Ande Tanauh, known in the art world as Rickii Ly, creates captivating artworks that feature otherworldly beings he refers to as “Humaliens.” This unique portrayal invites viewers into a distinct aesthetic that resonates deeply with various cultural elements.

Tanauh feels that Afrofuturism has helped him discover his own artistic sensibilities. "Today, I have a visual identity," he said. "I have characters and a story to tell. I've finally found myself as an artist."
Tanauh feels that Afrofuturism has helped him discover his own artistic sensibilities. “Today, I have a visual identity,” he said. “I have characters and a story to tell. I’ve finally found myself as an artist.”
Eric Ande Tanauh, also known as Rickii Ly creates artworks of the otherworldly creatures he calls "Humaliens."
Eric Ande Tanauh, also known as Rickii Ly creates artworks of the otherworldly creatures he calls “Humaliens.”

Understanding Afrofuturism in Tanauh’s Work

Tanauh’s style is primarily influenced by Afrofuturism, a compelling aesthetic that intertwines African culture with elements of science fiction and fantasy. This unique blend promotes a richer understanding of cultural narratives through the lens of futuristic visions.

Tanauh's style is based on an aesthetic known as Afrofuturism, a style that blends aspects of African culture with science fiction and fantasy elements.
Tanauh’s style is based on an aesthetic known as Afrofuturism, a style that blends aspects of African culture with science fiction and fantasy elements.

Voicing Cultural Narratives

As Tanauh articulates, “Africa has an inexhaustible catalog of artistic resources.” He emphasizes the importance of showcasing these elements and believes that Afrofuturism serves as a platform for broader cultural exploration.

"Africa has an inexhaustible catalog of artistic resources," Tanauh said. "We need to showcase these elements and Afrofuturism is the best way for me to get people exploring this."
“Africa has an inexhaustible catalog of artistic resources,” Tanauh said. “We need to showcase these elements and Afrofuturism is the best way for me to get people exploring this.”

Imagining a Utopian Future for Africa

The worlds that Tanauh depicts reflect a societal vision he aspires to see for the African continent. He describes it as a utopia, “But deep down, I dream of this future for Africa.” This sentiment permeates his artwork, inviting deeper contemplation about cultural progress and potential.

The world depicted by Tanauh is of a society that he wishes for the African continent. "It is a utopia at the moment. But deep down, I dream of this future for Africa," he said.
The world depicted by Tanauh is of a society that he wishes for the African continent. “It is a utopia at the moment. But deep down, I dream of this future for Africa,” he said.

Art as Emotional Expression

Tanauh goes further to explain, “For me, Afrofuturism is not an artistic movement, like Cubism, it’s just the feelings we have.” This assertion underscores how he channels emotional narratives into his artistic representations, allowing viewers to engage with his work on a personal level.

"For me, Afrofuturism is not an artistic movement, like Cubism, it's just the feelings we have," explained Tanauh.
“For me, Afrofuturism is not an artistic movement, like Cubism, it’s just the feelings we have,” explained Tanauh.

Personal Influences in Art

Raised in a Catholic environment, Tanauh indicates that his upbringing subtly informs his art. He mentions, “Don’t be surprised if you see some religious references in the background; all of this is part of the story.” This indicates how personal experiences contribute to the layers of meaning within his work.

Tanauh was raised as Catholic and alludes to this in some of his work. "Don't be surprised if you see some religious references in the background; all of this is part of the story," he said.
Tanauh was raised as Catholic and alludes to this in some of his work. “Don’t be surprised if you see some religious references in the background; all of this is part of the story,” he said.


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