Send us a text

What happens when life's unexpected twists lead you down an entirely new creative path? In this captivating conversation with photographer Billy Dinh, we explore how a stolen camera became the catalyst for abandoning his successful illustration career and embracing photography—eventually leading him into the world of NFTs and Web3.

Billy shares the fascinating story of his artistic evolution, from doodling as a child to freelancing for Marvel Comics, before finding his true calling behind the lens. After discovering NFTs through Instagram in March 2021, he initially approached the space as a collector before realizing the potential for authenticating and selling his own photographic work. Unlike many NFT origin stories that focus solely on financial gains, Billy was drawn by the technology's ability to provide verifiable attribution—addressing a longstanding concern for creators whose work is frequently appropriated without permission or compensation.

What makes Billy's perspective particularly valuable is his balanced approach to creative entrepreneurship. While maintaining a successful career as a product manager in the tech industry, he's built a significant presence as a photographer in the NFT space. Drawing wisdom from Elizabeth Gilbert's book "Big Magic," Billy challenges the notion that legitimacy as an artist requires abandoning financial stability. This refreshing viewpoint offers encouragement to creators feeling pressured to "go all in" before they're ready.

For artists navigating or considering entry into NFTs, Billy offers three essential pieces of advice: don't make digital assets your entire identity or financial strategy; practice patience as finding your audience may take time; and be prepared to develop promotion and community-building skills alongside your creative practice. His journey illustrates how Web3 empowers artists by removing traditional gatekeepers while simultaneously requiring them to take on new responsibilities.

Ready to gain insights from someone who's successfully balancing creative passion with practical stability? Listen now and discover why sometimes the best artistic journeys don't follow a straight line.

https://x.com/billydeee_

https://www.instagram.com/billydeee

Support the show

Send us a text

What does it take to transform a teenage fascination with Microsoft Paint into collaborations with global brands like Nike, Apple, and Mercedes-Benz? In this candid conversation, digital artist Rik Oostenbroek pulls back the curtain on his remarkable 19-year creative journey.

Rik's story begins in a small Dutch town where his teacher parents emphasized education and sports over artistic pursuits. His creative awakening came during his rebellious teenage years when a friend introduced him to DeviantArt, sparking a self-taught design education that would eventually lead to designing flyers for local events in exchange for free drinks. By age 17, he had landed his first major client—Volkswagen—after his portfolio unexpectedly gained over 100,000 views in a single day.

The conversation takes fascinating turns as Rik shares his evolution from freelancer to art director for Cirque du Soleil in Montreal, ultimately returning to independence when he discovered corporate environments stifled his creativity. His philosophy of "always remember why you started" has guided him through the volatile Web3 landscape, where he found both supportive collectors and new possibilities for digital art. Rik's refreshing honesty about the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity while building commercial success offers valuable insights for creators at any stage.

Looking ahead, Rik reveals details about his six-month collaboration on a generative art project, demonstrating his commitment to continuous learning and artistic growth. Whether discussing his dream of living in Japan or LA, his experience getting scammed in the early crypto days, or his obsession with risotto, Rik's authentic passion for creativity shines throughout this conversation.

Ready to be inspired? Listen now and discover why remembering your creative roots might be the most powerful tool for navigating an artistic career in today's rapidly changing digital landscape.

https://x.com/RikOostenbroek

Support the show

Send us a text

Digital artist Efdot takes us on a journey through the evolving landscape of crypto art and his creative process, revealing how he navigated from traditional beginnings to becoming a voice in the Web3 art movement.

The conversation opens with Efdot's origin story – how digital tools were already part of his creative workflow before discovering the blockchain, using his iPad to design large-scale murals by drawing over photographs of walls. When he discovered people collecting digital art with the same reverence as physical pieces, he saw an opportunity to share his backlog of digital work with the right audience.

Efdot paints a vivid picture of today's Web3 art scene, particularly in New York City where hundreds of artists are forming genuine communities around digital creation. "Before Web3, I didn't fit into the New York art scene," he explains. "Now there's real support and infrastructure being built." Looking forward, he envisions more institutional recognition through museum exhibitions, pointing to Refik Anadol's MoMA installation as a turning point for public perception of digital art.

What truly sets Efdot's work apart is his approach to physical editions. Rather than simple reproductions, his screen prints create unique interpretations through layered inks that produce sculptural depth and unexpected color interactions. He treats these physical pieces as a premium tier distinct from digital editions, shipping them with certificates of authenticity.

The conversation takes a personal turn as Efdot shares his mantra – "let go" – and his perfect cadence for releasing work: something substantial every 6-8 months, with smaller experiments every 1-2 months. His advice for artists entering the space resonates deeply: find communities you're passionate about and don't try to be everywhere at once.

Don't miss Efdot's upcoming exhibition at the Canal Street show as part of the Subjective Art Fair, and watch for his two new collections launching soon. Follow his journey as he continues to bridge physical and digital art worlds with thoughtful creation and community-building.

https://x.com/EfdotStudio

Support the show

Send us a text

What happens when life's darkest moments lead to unexpected creative awakening? In this engaging conversation with Juicy Julio (JJ), we explore how a simple family trip to Morocco planted the seeds for a passionate journey into photography that would later become his salvation during the isolation of COVID lockdowns.

JJ shares the deeply personal story of how photography emerged as his emotional lifeline after losing family members during the pandemic. Unable to attend funerals or say proper goodbyes, he discovered that his camera became the channel through which he could transform grief and negativity into creative expression. This accidental photographer, who is also a chemical engineer by profession, draws fascinating parallels between his scientific work and his artistic pursuits.

The conversation takes us through JJ's varied experiences - from flipping burgers at a local restaurant (mainly for the free food!) to his current work in chemistry. His thoughtful approach to Web3 reveals a commitment to security (maintaining two separate hardware wallets) and community building that extends to his creative practice. Despite being relatively new to the NFT space, JJ offers valuable insights for artists entering the ecosystem: take time to understand the technology, build genuine connections beyond simple transactions, and remember the humans behind the profile pictures.

What makes this episode special is the vulnerability and authenticity JJ brings to the table. His father's advice - "don't make emotional decisions" - has shaped his approach to both art and investment. Looking ahead, JJ shares his plans for giving back to supporters through special drops and a carefully curated standalone collection, embodying the community-first ethos that makes Web3 a unique space for creators.

Whether you're an aspiring photographer, NFT enthusiast, or simply someone looking for inspiration on turning personal challenges into creative opportunities, JJ's journey offers valuable lessons on patience, intentionality, and finding light in unexpected places. Subscribe now and follow along as we continue to spotlight the stories of creators redefining their creative paths through Web3.

https://x.com/Julio_tnim

Support the show

Send us a text

Ever wondered what happens when legal expertise meets digital art collecting? Artie Handz, head of marketing at Verse and founder of Artie Gallery, takes us on a journey through his fascinating transition from courtroom to crypto art.

The spark ignited during Christmas 2020 when an article about NBA Top Shot landed in Artie's inbox. Having previously written about asset digitization in his MBA program years earlier, he felt an immediate connection to the concept. "I was all in," Artie explains, describing his transition from childhood sports card collector to owning thousands of NFTs, including prestigious pieces like his CryptoPunk purchased just before the 2021 price surge.

What makes Web3 special for Artie is the elimination of traditional barriers between artists and collectors. Unlike the walled-off gallery system, digital art enables direct connections with creators worldwide. "You get to see it being built, made, painted, created, coded," he shares. "You're like a proud parent sometimes when it releases." This democratization represents a fundamental shift in how art is experienced and valued.

Looking toward the future, Artie predicts we'll eventually stop using qualifiers like "digital art" or "AI art" – everything will simply be "art" again. He anticipates innovation from unexpected sources, perhaps from "some 17-year-old kid" who will introduce something revolutionary that changes the entire landscape. However, challenges remain, including questions about mass adoption, market volatility, and the long-term accessibility of blockchain-based art.

Beyond his digital pursuits, Artie revealed surprising personal dimensions – he's both a private pilot and a fifth-generation cattle rancher with a 37,000-acre family ranch in Wyoming. Now focused on his role at Verse and his personal gallery, he's preparing to launch "The Book of Hope," a basketball-themed collection that bridges his love of sports with meaningful artistic expression.

Follow Artie's journey as he continues breaking new ground in the evolving world of digital art collecting and curation. Whether you're a seasoned collector or crypto-curious, his insights offer valuable perspective on navigating this rapidly changing creative frontier.

https://x.com/punk7635

Support the show

Send us a text

What happens when a physician's analytical mind meets the boundless creativity of photography? Tara Workman, a nature photographer from Barbados now living in the Pacific Northwest, joins us to share her extraordinary journey through art, medicine, and the world of NFTs.

Tara's path to becoming a celebrated photographer began with a simple challenge from her husband to learn how to properly use her camera before buying a new one. That small nudge ignited a passion that would transform her creative life. Despite her success, Tara describes herself as naturally introverted—more like a watchful cougar than her husband's labrador-like enthusiasm—preferring to observe carefully before engaging.

The conversation reveals Tara's initial skepticism toward NFTs during the frenzied market of 2021. She candidly shares how the pressure to constantly promote herself clashed with her authentic nature, leading to a brief hiatus from the space. Upon returning in 2022, she committed to approaching her art with more authenticity, finding her rhythm in the community while staying true to her unique vision.

Most compelling is Tara's insight into how the creative process evolves. When facing a creative block, she stepped completely outside her comfort zone by experimenting with acrylic painting. Though initially disappointed with the results, she discovered unexpected beauty by photographing microscopic sections of these "failed" paintings with her macro lens. This serendipitous process birthed "The Art of Letting Go," her new series that has resonated deeply with collectors even in the current market.

Throughout our conversation, Tara offers wisdom for fellow artists: remember why you create, resist the temptation to follow trends, and recognize when external validation begins to influence your creative decisions. Her journey reminds us that the most meaningful art often emerges when we embrace uncertainty and remain open to unexpected possibilities.

Join us for this thought-provoking conversation about finding your authentic voice in a noisy world. Whether you're an artist, collector, or simply curious about the creative process, Tara's insights will inspire you to see beauty in unexpected places.

Support the show

Send us a text

Meet Paul Seibert, the photographer whose stunning aerial views of New York City have redefined urban landscape photography. In this captivating conversation, Paul shares his remarkable journey from jazz saxophone player to renowned aerial photographer, revealing how a simple trip to New Mexico with an 8-megapixel point-and-shoot camera reignited a dormant passion that would transform his life.

Paul's story is one of creative evolution and second chances. After feeling he hadn't fully applied himself to his musical talents in his youth, he approached photography with renewed dedication, embodying his personal mantra: "Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard." This philosophy has guided him through a career that now includes a published book with Rizzoli, collaborations with major brands like Canon USA and the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation, and a thriving presence in both traditional and NFT photography spaces.

The conversation takes us through Paul's colorful employment history—from grocery store cart boy and short-order cook to estate landscaper—before he took the leap into full-time photography about a decade ago. Now based in Colorado after relocating from New York, Paul offers valuable insights for creators navigating the web3 landscape, emphasizing the importance of community, patience, and intentional relationship-building beyond social media. He also shares details about his exciting new project "Cathedrals of Baseball," which aims to capture aerial views of iconic stadiums as NFTs, potentially revolutionizing sports memorabilia in the digital space.

Whether you're a photographer, an artist exploring web3, or someone seeking inspiration to pursue your creative passions, Paul's journey demonstrates how commitment and authenticity can help transform talent into a fulfilling career. Listen now and discover how looking at the world from new heights—literally and figuratively—can open unexpected doors.

https://x.com/BEH0LDINGEYE

Support the show

Send us a text

What transforms a fashion industry professional into a respected crypto artist? In this candid conversation with Jules, we explore the fascinating intersection of traditional art backgrounds and Web3 innovation.

Jules opens up about his creative evolution that began alongside major fashion designers, where he absorbed the art of vision execution before developing his own voice through photography and digital creation. His refreshingly positive outlook on work—from managing an ice cream shop at 14 to selling "flowers" in Northern California—reveals how gratitude shapes both his art and his approach to the crypto space.

"We are all so lucky," Jules reminds us, highlighting how privileged we are to participate in this innovative ecosystem regardless of market conditions. This perspective extends to his thoughtful approach to creating digital art, where he considers whether each piece deserves to "live forever" on the blockchain before minting it.

The conversation takes fascinating turns through discussions of supply dynamics, comparing approaches from artists like Jack Butcher and Joe Pease, while Jules shares his own philosophy of creating deliberately and with reverence for blockchain permanence. His insights on editions versus one-of-ones offer valuable perspective for both creators and collectors navigating the space.

Perhaps most valuable is Jules' advice to fellow artists: "Don't forget to live life, because what happens outside of making art is what informs the art." This reminder to maintain balance and draw inspiration from diverse experiences resonates as essential wisdom for creative sustainability in any medium.

Join us for this heartfelt discussion about finding your people, creating with intention, and approaching each day with positivity in the evolving landscape of digital art. Want more conversations with innovative creators shaping the future of Web3? Subscribe to NorCal and Shill wherever you get your podcasts.

https://x.com/nicedayJules

Support the show

Send us a text

What happens when a health crisis forces you to abandon old habits and discover new passions? For Killian Moore, putting down the beer and picking up a camera transformed not just his health, but his entire perspective on New York City—a place he'd called home for over a decade.

"When you're documenting the everyday life of New York, you start seeing the city differently," Killian reveals in our conversation. "Before that I had just been a regular New Yorker who was trying to get from point A to point B as quick as possible and pushing people out of the way to get there." This shift in perspective eventually led him skyward, where he discovered his love for aerial photography, shooting from doors-off helicopters to capture the city from breathtaking new angles.

Our discussion travels from Killian's early days of learning photography through Instagram communities to his current work as an in-flight aerial photography instructor. We explore his thoughtful approach to Web3 security (including his four separate hardware wallets, each with a specific purpose), and his entry into NFTs just before the 2021 boom—a time when only a handful of photographers were minting work.

For artists considering the NFT space, Killian offers wisdom earned through experience: "Take your time. Just because you have work to mint doesn't mean that you should mint it immediately." He emphasizes the importance of education, security awareness, and finding supportive communities willing to share knowledge.

Whether you're a photographer looking to enter Web3, an NFT collector curious about artistic process, or simply someone who appreciates the power of reinvention, this conversation offers valuable insights about craft, community, and the courage to see familiar surroundings through fresh eyes.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Killian Moore

Killian Moore on Twitter

Killian Moore on Instagram

Killian Moore on Facebook

NorCal and Shill on Twitter

Support the show

Send us a text

BeginBot takes us on a captivating journey through his eclectic world of collecting – from CryptoPunks to Pope memorabilia – while challenging conventional wisdom about what makes art valuable in the blockchain era.

As one of the early adopters in the crypto art scene, BeginBot shares how his programmer background and natural affinity for "weird subcultures" led him from CryptoKitties to BoardApe meetups, always following his intuitive sense of what resonated personally rather than chasing trends. His refreshing honesty cuts through typical crypto platitudes: "I love that people hate it," he admits about the contrarian nature of Web3 that continues to draw him in.

What makes this conversation exceptional is BeginBot's passionate defense of creative conflict. While many in the space avoid criticism to maintain harmony and value, he argues that the greatest art movements throughout history thrived on disagreement and provocative ideas. "No one wants to talk about the bad stuff," he laments, explaining how the lack of critical discourse ultimately weakens artistic evolution. His admiration for Death beef's entropy-based work – blockchain art that deliberately decays with each transaction – reveals his appreciation for conceptual depth over mere aesthetics.

Perhaps most fascinating is BeginBot's current exploration of AI-generated art that creates deeply personalized experiences. Rather than using technology to please everyone, he's interested in its potential to provoke powerful emotions specific to each viewer – even if that means discomfort. "I want to make them cry, scream," he explains, challenging the notion that art should primarily seek approval or financial gain.

Whether you're deep in the crypto art world or simply curious about collecting, this episode offers a thought-provoking perspective on finding meaning in what we choose to value. Subscribe now and join the conversation about what truly makes something worth collecting beyond its price tag.

https://x.com/beginbotbot

Support the show