Zhannet Podobed is an artist who works in a variety of media.
She lives and works in Odesa, Ukraine.
Can you tell us a bit about your artistic career and how you came to create NFT art?
I have been making art since I was a child, but I have never taken it seriously, it has always been a hobby for me. I worked in the travel and yachting industry and travelled a lot, which definitely influenced my artistic development. But eventually art won out and about 4 years ago I decided that I wanted to be an artist. In the beginning I couldn't become an independent artist and I needed a job, so I decided to work as a digital designer, because that is also a creative profession and for me artists and designers are very close. In March 2021 I came to NFTs, a friend of mine told me about it and since then my journey started here and continues until now. In November 2021, thanks to all my collectors and the NFT community, I was able to become a full-time artist and quit my job as a designer. So now I am a full time artist.
When did you decide to establish yourself as an NFT-artist and what type of artwork do you most enjoy creating?
I count my art career since March 2021, when I came to NFTs and started to participate in exhibitions and pay more attention to art and consider myself an artist. It will be two years soon. I love digital art and to work with oil colours, they give you so meditative effect.
Have you also gained experience in the classical art market?
Yes, I have taken part in art exhibitions in various galleries and I have sold my paintings at the Budapest Art Market. I try to develop myself in both areas, crypto art and classical art.
Can you share with us a special project or piece of art that inspired you or that you recently created?
Lumen Intus is my latest collection that I am currently working on. I have already minted and listed two pieces and am working on a third piece from this collection. Lumen Intus (from Latin meaning 'the light within') is an art collection dedicated to the inner light and would feature works that explore themes of spirituality, self-awareness, inner illumination and strength. It is a reflection on life in Ukraine without electricity, when the whole country is plunged into darkness.
What role does success play for you as an NFT-artist?
Success is important to me because it determines my financial stability, recognition and influence in the industry. If you are a successful NFT artist, you will be able to sell your work for high prices, attract more buyers and build a strong reputation in the market. Your success also gives you more opportunities to showcase your work, collaborate with other artists and participate in exhibitions and events. Ultimately, success can bring financial security, artistic recognition and career growth.
What challenges have you experienced so far as an NFT artist and how have you overcome them?
The biggest challenge for me is working and living in Ukraine during the war. Also the electricity system is damaged all over the country because of the rocket attacks and there is often no electricity at home, which causes some difficulties with the work, but luckily cafes have generators and I can go there. Oh and I wish I had better English, but I am working on it ;)
What role do collaborations and partnerships play in your NFT art career?
Collaborations play an important role in an artist's career. For me it's an opportunity to go beyond my own art, to try something new, it's also always about communication and exchange with other artists, interaction and sharing experiences. It's always fascinating.
How important is it to you to connect with the crypto community and how do you use that connection to spread the word about your art?
This is the main thing for me, I connect and communicate with the crypto community on a daily basis, we communicate, chat and support each other, we just have fun and I like it. Friendship and mutual support is everything in this space.
Can you give us an example of a creative and innovative use of NFTs in your art?
I have some collaborations with other artists, but I would like to tell you about our collaboration with three people: myself, my sister Kristina Podobed and Aeneas Middleton. My sister, she is a photographer, she took a photo, I did motion effects on it and Aeneas Middleton, he is a multi-platinum producer, he did the music. The piece is called Lines Fluides, it is about the connection between everyone and everything, very beautiful and powerful artwork.
How do you see the future of NFT art and what do you think will change in the future?
It's difficult to predict the exact future of NFT art, but I widely believe that the use of blockchain technology to sell and own unique digital assets will become increasingly popular in the art world. I also believe that the use of NFTs in real-life events will become more popular, allowing more people to see and interact with digital art. This is an exciting development and holds great potential for the growth and democratization of the art world.
What is your goal or vision as an artist?
I want to achieve recognition and success around the world, such as exhibiting my work in galleries and art markets, having successful personal exhibitions, collaborating with famous fashion brands and receiving critical acclaim, I also want to innovate and push the boundaries of my art form and raise awareness about the war in my country.
What advice would you give to newcomers to Space or new NFT artists?
I would suggest to familiarize yourself with the technology: to take the time to understand how NFTs and blockchain technology work, learn how to secure your funds and jpegs and be patient: building a successful career as an NFT artist takes time and effort. Be patient, stay focused, and keep creating.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Never, never, never give up. — Winston Churchill
Website: zhannetpodobed.com
Twitter: @zhannetpodobed