Mahmud “MUDDY”

My name is Mahmud, also known as MUDDY, and I am a Chicago-based multidisciplinary artist creating narrative-driven work rooted in imagination, emotion, and escapism. I have been making art for most of my life, beginning with pencils and markers before expanding into spray paint, acrylics, mixed media, and digital art. I primarily work with acrylic paint on canvas and create mixed-media illustrations on Bristol paper. For larger-scale murals, I combine spray paint and acrylics to bring my imagery into physical spaces.

At the center of my practice is a cast of original characters that embody the constant tension between positive and negative energy. Through them, I explore emotions, internal struggles, self-doubt, growth, and moments of personal victory. Each piece functions as part of a larger narrative, like a panel within an evolving storyboard, allowing individual works to stand alone while contributing to a much larger story.

This interconnected world is called Onion City—a parallel universe inspired by Chicago and the places I have lived, visited, and experienced. My influences include my surroundings, travel, music, anime, film, and the visual language of the cities and cultures that have shaped me. These influences come together to create textured, layered environments where reality and imagination intersect.

Ultimately, I create art for people who need an escape from the everyday grind. Escapism has always been an important part of my imagination and creative process, giving me space to recharge, reflect, and reconnect with my inner child. Through my work, I invite viewers to step into Onion City, get lost in its stories, and momentarily let the weight of the outside world fade away.

Welcome to my world.