We had the privilege of sitting down with the outstanding NFT artist, EL ROKK, to delve into his creative journey and his insights into the world of digital artwork and NFTs. Take a look at his newest Drop Medusa on SuperRare.
Inform us about your creative journey and the way you bought began on the planet of digital artwork and NFTs.
After acquiring my diploma in Graphic and Artwork from RMIT Melbourne, I spent over a decade freelancing. In 2020, I ventured into the NFT world after conversations with my good friend Vangeli, who was obsessed with NFTs. Intrigued, I utilized to affix SUPERRARE, and in December 2020, I obtained the thrilling information that I used to be accepted, turning into the primary Malaysian artist on the platform. Designing and illustrating have been constants in my life, from my childhood days with paper and pencil to the digital realm. Now, 13 years later, I proceed to create and draw full-time.
As a digital artist, what impressed you to discover the realm of NFTs? How do you see NFTs shaping the way forward for artwork?
The love that collectors confirmed for artwork within the NFT area was my most important inspiration. Artists want recognition and appreciation for his or her work, and witnessing this motivated me to affix. With over a decade of illustrating expertise, I felt geared up to contribute. NFTs undeniably symbolize the long run. The rising inflow of artists and collectors, coupled with the every day surge in new artworks, signifies that NFTs are poised to turn out to be the most important area for creators.
Your various background consists of advert design, gaming titles, indie comics, and model attire. How have these experiences influenced your creative fashion and method to creating NFTs?
Every job I’ve undertaken has enriched my expertise and information. From 2D illustration to photorealism, every challenge has taught me one thing new. I’ve embraced numerous types and methods and introduced them into my NFT creations. Tattoos have at all times been my signature fashion aspect, an attribute carried ahead from my intensive expertise. Tattoo-inspired designs are embedded in my artwork, including uniqueness to my creations.
Who’re a few of your favourite artists, each conventional and digital, who’ve influenced your work? How have they impressed you?
Artists like Roxie and Anthony from Grand Theft Auto V have been main inspirations. Their fashion, characterised by black outlines, coloring, and shading, has left an enduring impression on me. Comedian books have additionally performed a pivotal position in shaping my artistry. Frank Miller, the creator of “The Darkish Knight Returns,” stands out along with his distinctive artwork fashion. Drawing from these influences, I’ve integrated tattoo designs into my work, including a private contact.
What particular themes or feelings do you purpose to seize in your paintings, and the way do you obtain that by means of your inventive course of?
My purpose is to create artwork that challenges norms, breaks stereotypes, and evokes emotion. My childhood experiences with tattoos, the place they had been typically related to negativity, impressed me to make use of well-known cartoon characters as autos to problem these perceptions. By giving them tattoo designs, I aimed to convey that each one artwork is gorgeous and shouldn’t be judged primarily based on appearances.
With a big Instagram following, how has social media aided in selling your artwork and connecting together with your viewers? How do you interact together with your followers?
Earlier than NFTs, most of my purchasers had been sourced from Instagram and Fb. I’ve been posting every day to showcase my artwork and expertise. Participating with my followers is significant, as I clarify the tales behind my items and foster interplay. I additionally collaborate with fellow artists, making a vibrant creative group.
May you share any notable experiences out of your creative profession, particularly inside the realm of NFTs?
A standout second was in December 2020, once I utilized to SUPERRARE. The next January, I used to be accepted, and my good friend Vangeli and I launched a 5-series of NFTs. The gathering bought out instantly, marking my impactful entry into the NFT area.
What challenges have you ever confronted as an artist within the digital age, and the way have you ever overcome them? How has the NFT area offered distinctive alternatives and challenges for you?
A problem within the digital age is artwork theft, the place individuals erase signatures and promote artwork as their very own. NFTs deal with this difficulty; as soon as bought, the NFT proprietor positive aspects full possession rights. The NFT area affords alternatives to create, share, and promote artwork whereas constructing a group of collectors who worth artists’ work and contributions.
May you stroll us by means of your inventive course of, from ideation to the ultimate NFT paintings?
I begin with sketching, adopted by outlining, refining, coloring, and detailing. I draw inspiration from comics, books, and films, spending days absorbing concepts. As soon as in my workplace, I mix numerous parts to create one thing new and thrilling.
Trying forward, what are your future plans and objectives as an artist within the NFT area? Any thrilling initiatives or collaborations?
My focus is on 1/1 items, persevering with to supply worth to collectors. I attempt to take care of high quality and help the NFT area, aiding fellow artists. The NFT group’s enthusiasm and appreciation encourage me to maintain pushing creative boundaries.
(Be aware: The interview has been cleaned up for readability and coherence, as requested.)