We had the privilege of sitting down with the exceptional NFT artist, EL ROKK, to delve into his inventive 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 inventive 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 keen about NFTs. Intrigued, I utilized to hitch SUPERRARE, and in December 2020, I obtained the thrilling information that I used to be accepted, changing 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 house was my fundamental inspiration. Artists need recognition and appreciation for his or her work, and witnessing this motivated me to hitch. 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 each day surge in new artworks, signifies that NFTs are poised to turn into the most important area for creators.
Your numerous background consists of advert design, gaming titles, indie comics, and model attire. How have these experiences influenced your inventive fashion and strategy to creating NFTs?
Every job I’ve undertaken has enriched my expertise and information. From 2D illustration to photorealism, every mission has taught me one thing new. I’ve embraced varied types and strategies and introduced them into my NFT creations. Tattoos have at all times been my signature fashion ingredient, an attribute carried ahead from my in depth 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 a long-lasting 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 together with his distinctive artwork fashion. Drawing from these influences, I’ve included tattoo designs into my work, including a private contact.
What particular themes or feelings do you intention to seize in your art work, and the way do you obtain that by means of your inventive course of?
My intention is to create artwork that challenges norms, breaks stereotypes, and evokes emotion. My childhood experiences with tattoos, the place they had been usually 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 based mostly on appearances.
With a major Instagram following, how has social media aided in selling your artwork and connecting along with your viewers? How do you interact along with your followers?
Earlier than NFTs, most of my shoppers had been sourced from Instagram and Fb. I’ve been posting each day to showcase my artwork and expertise. Partaking with my followers is important, as I clarify the tales behind my items and foster interplay. I additionally collaborate with fellow artists, making a vibrant inventive neighborhood.
May you share any notable experiences out of your inventive 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 offered out instantly, marking my impactful entry into the NFT house.
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 house introduced distinctive alternatives and challenges for you?
A problem within the digital age is artwork theft, the place folks erase signatures and promote artwork as their very own. NFTs tackle this concern; as soon as bought, the NFT proprietor beneficial properties full possession rights. The NFT house provides alternatives to create, share, and promote artwork whereas constructing a neighborhood 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 art work?
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 varied components to create one thing new and thrilling.
Wanting forward, what are your future plans and targets as an artist within the NFT house? Any thrilling initiatives or collaborations?
My focus is on 1/1 items, persevering with to supply worth to collectors. I try to keep up high quality and help the NFT house, aiding fellow artists. The NFT neighborhood’s enthusiasm and appreciation encourage me to maintain pushing inventive boundaries.
(Be aware: The interview has been cleaned up for readability and coherence, as requested.)
