How has your artist journey changed since joining NFTs? How did you start?
I think the biggest ways it’s changed is the fact that I’m making art for myself now mostly, rather than commissions. Commissions are great especially when you need that money like I did, but I found myself not having art that was made for myself.
In terms of getting into NFTs, I’ll try to keep the story short enough. Before NFT’s, I was pursuing sneaker design.
In that world, there are different workshops and events I’d attend where I met other tons of other artists like me. Through one of those events I met a local artist named Jordan Azzow. At the time we didn’t know each other well but I became aware of him again some time later. We became great friends over Instagram and would share our interest in the digital art world. At the time Foundation was exclusive and we made a pact that if one of us found a way on that we’d help the other person get on. He found a way on and I then bought his piece so I could get an invite. I then minted that same day and my piece sat for months because I was unaware that I needed to have a community in order to sell. But once I found the NFT community everything changed.
Do you prefer physical or digital art?
I prefer Digital. I’m able to get details I never could physically and that’s very important to me. I respect and love traditional art but i’m in love with digital.
How would you describe your art style?
I’d say my style is a new spin on precision with a surrealist pop art twist.
Who or what are some of your biggest inspirations?
Web2: Edward Hopper, George Condo, David Hockney, Hiroshi Nagai, Hikari Shimoda, Yue Minjun,
Web3: Grant Yun, XCOPY, ACK, Rozwell, Tyler Hobbs, Cory Van Lew, Goliath, Gamo
What is your favorite piece?
It changes all the time but right now it might be The Getaway. I feel like I’m growing with each piece so I always feel my next work is my best work.
What do you hope to accomplish in the next year?
I just hope to keep growing my craft first and foremost. Nothing else will matter If I don’t. But apart from that, I look forward to planning my first solo show. It’s been a goal of mine for a while and I’ve been growing my portfolio in anticipation of it. I also look forward to working with auction houses.
When do you feel most inspired to create?
When I see great art. Art inspires me the most. My phone gallery is full of others’ art.
Who are 3 artists you have your eyes on at the moment?
Rozwell - Roz was one of my earliest and best friend’s in this space. He’s always been such an awesome guy all around and someone great to bounce ideas off of. He also has some awesome art on the way that changed how I view things and i’m excited for everyone else to see it.
Niah - I’m so in love with Niah’s stories and details in her art. I relate with her on that level. She pushes me to keep it up. I’m so happy to own some of her work.
Pwdro - He is truly one of my favorite artists. His piece ‘Hot Wind Blows’ is genuinely one of my favorite pieces I own.
What advice would you give to an artist starting in the space right now?
Keep the art first. Nothing means anything If you aren’t putting your all into the art.
Would you rather be relatable or aspirational to your audience?
I’d like to be a bit of both. I’m in a great position right now and I want others to know I’m just a guy. I believe anything is possible if you’re willing to work for it.
