Cielmot, sometimes known by his art nickname “Ciel,” entered the world of art with bright-eyed enthusiasm. It’s a completely different one from finance and other technical skills, which he also had a background in. “It’s a fun mix,” he tells us, despite the two being apart from each other. 

Art has always been a part of his life — he was just uncertain about which path to take. In the end, it was his own perseverance that helped him maintain the passion.

Ciel also found a home in the art world through the NFT community, which he has nothing but praise for. He admires the idea of NFT art because it’s experimental; a medium that allows for eclectic techniques without regard for conventions. As a digital artist, this is something Ciel wants to constantly explore.

You can buy his piece, ‘Macadam’, as premium framed wall art here.

[Note: The interview below contains minor edits for clarity.]

Tell us about yourself. How did art come into your life?

I'm Ciel, a digital artist. Like anyone else, I’ve been surrounded by all kinds of art my entire life, such as music, film, and fashion. So I was inspired by many things, and most of them never worked because I pushed myself too hard just for the sake of learning a skill. Digital art felt natural to me, so I persevered with it — hopefully for the rest of my life.

What does the creation process look like for you? How do you feel while you’re creating a piece, and after a piece is complete? 

I view creating art as providing a visual solution to a puzzle. Sometimes the process feels frustrating and demotivating, and other times it feels enjoyable. What's most important is the feeling of fulfillment as I watch my new creation come to life.

Who are your biggest influences?

Frank Moth’s art influenced me the most, and frankly their piece ‘Limbo’ pushed me to start exploring digital collage. 

You once said that you had a background in finance. You also show a lot of interest in new genres of digital art. How do your technical skills influence your approach as an artist?

To be honest, there's not much influence from the finance side of me. It's two separate worlds. But still, it's a fun mix!

You always describe your art as something where one can “discover new hidden worlds.” What kinds of worlds do you want to portray here?

A mysterious, suspenseful, and an uneasy one.

As a member of the NFT art community, how do you think this new wave of art contributed to the evolution of digital art?

NFTs have given digital art scarcity and hedonic value, and most importantly, automated payments of royalty from secondary sales. All of these were impossible before the invention of NFTs. Also, the community values provenance and open-mindedness, so artists don't have to be afraid of backlash for experimenting with new techniques.

How does NFT make art feel different or special for you?

I'd say the sentimental value and building your own community around you. 

Follow Cielmot on Instagram here.