JD Urban's profound connection to human stories and societal struggles has carved a unique path in his artistic journey. Launching his voyage in 2009, he delved into the poignant realm of human vulnerability, photographing and interviewing strangers about their struggles. This was more than just a project for JD; it was a therapeutic exploration stemming from his struggles with opiate addiction. The raw emotions captured in this endeavor became 'The Everyday People Project', an archive that reveals the rise of social media during

His insatiable desire to foster conversations on vital societal issues found a significant platform in 2013. JD mounted the thought-provoking “United. States: An Installation of Conversation” at ArtPrize. Stationed at Calder Plaza, the installation used a military triage tent as its canvas, projecting intense conversations on subjects like Gun Control, Marriage Equality, Racism, and Freedom. The impactful presentation earned him the award fo 'Best Use Of Urban Space.”

Relocating to Hudson, New York in 2015, JD's artistic focus pivoted to the intense emotions surrounding the upcoming election. The voices of local residents were transformed into a stirring multimedia exhibition at Hudson Hall, titled “(R)evolution is Uncomfortable”. Not merely limited to static visuals, this exhibit extended its reach into the dynamic realm of live events at PS21 during the Film Columbia festival.

In 2021, JD co-directed a film for fashion icon Bibhu Mohapatra, which premiered at Spring/Summer 2021 New York Fashion Week. The film elegantly blended the grandeur of Hudson Hall with scenes from the iconic Olana State Historic Site. Alongside these projects, he has captured portraits of luminaries such as Lena Hall, Ariana Debose, Chef Daisy Martinez, Jake Shears, Elizabeth A Davis, and Robin De Jesus