Thank you for joining us today. Let’s start by understanding how your background and past experiences led you to the NFT domain. Can you share your story?
Certainly. My machinations towards cryptocurrencies during 2020-2021 laid the foundation for my foray into the NFT sphere, which started with the crypto bull run on Rarible in 2021. Although I minted four different NFTs, my lack of connections in the space selling it is a challenge. The high costs put me on pause, during which I delved into a Turkish NFT community. Their support and the opportunity to get my OpenSea registration costs covered rekindled my creative spark. Despite financial constraints, I put together my Imok collection, which marked a turning point in my NFT journey.
Interesting! What do you think was the spark that drew you to NFTs and digital art?
The allure of etching a part of yourself into the immutable annals of blockchain, to pass on to posterity, was incredibly compelling. I felt like I was becoming a fragment of history, an idea too tempting to resist.
How has venturing into NFTs influenced your artistic style or exploration of themes in your work?
It was profound. Unlike the physical realm where committees dictated my creations, the NFT space allowed me to express my style and build my brand. This freedom has been priceless.
Contact with the NFT community must have certainly provided some of the insights. Can you share a few?
Absolute. The camaraderie and spirit of collective growth in the NFT community has been enlightening, especially coming from a background where individualism reigned supreme. It is an environment in which I could evolve artistically.
The blockchain is the basis of NFTs. Which facets of blockchain technology intrigue you the most?
It is the creation of an unchanging reality! We are in the rudimentary stages of this groundbreaking technology, akin to cavemen, with an exciting future ahead.
Do you have a favorite project or artwork among your works? Can you share the story or inspiration behind it?
My cherished project is the Imok NFT collection, which reflects everyday experiences and embodies the philosophy of Heraclitus’ ‘Arves of Fire’, which symbolize change. It was rewarding to connect with over 100 art lovers through this collection.
Collaboration often leads to innovation. Have you collaborated with other NFT artists or blockchain projects?
Certainly. Collaborations are powerful opportunities for building brands and forging robust connections. It is an exemplary marketing strategy that stimulates mutual growth.
The learning curve in the NFT space can be steep. What challenges have you encountered and how did you overcome them?
The realm was not devoid of scams and deception, but my love for creation acted as a therapeutic anchor and helped me navigate the rough waters.
Looking ahead, what are your ambitions in the NFT landscape and how do you plan to contribute?
It’s a canvas with endless possibilities. Meeting brilliant minds here creates new ideas and paths. Like any artist, pursuing a legacy and contributing to the NFT ecosystem is the dream.
Finally, any pearls of wisdom for aspiring artists looking at the NFT space?
Embrace freedom, continue to hone your unique style, forge meaningful connections, and never stop the learning process. The journey is as remarkable as the destination.
More information about ogunkizmaz can be found here
https://ogun.tasseo.xyz/
TLDR: The interview reveals ogunkizmaz’s journey from exploring cryptocurrency to creating NFT, highlighting the importance of community support, the appeal of blockchain’s immutability, and the liberation the NFT space offers to artists. Through obstacles and collaborations, the story unfolds a path of continuous learning and pursuit of a lasting legacy in the fast-growing NFT ecosystem.