When I first stepped into the Web3 space in early 2021, I—like many others—approached it with a mix of courage and uncertainty. None of us could predict what lay ahead, whether on a personal, political, or even spiritual level.
During this period, I came to understand that the discomfort of uncertainty was actually an invitation for growth and transformation. We were already outside our comfort zones, navigating an uncharted realm filled with possibilities.
As a traditional painter, I took a leap beyond my usual medium. Instead of mixing paints, I ventured further into the unknown and created a Twitter account. This was my way of reaching out—an attempt to connect and counteract the isolation brought on by the pandemic.
Before 2021, my work was deeply rooted in nature and physical materials. However, when I discovered NFTs, I quickly grasped how technology could serve as a bridge to share my creations with the world. Rather than seeing it as an end goal, I viewed this digital space as the beginning of a new artistic journey.
The first step in integrating technology into my practice required me to expand beyond my established identity as a traditional painter. What captivated me most about NFTs and Web3 wasn’t just the digital medium itself but the dynamic community reshaping the way we perceive and handle money.
Discussions about money were common in my family, though not in the conventional sense. We often explored money’s spiritual implications—how it signifies privilege, agency, and choice. Money enables us to act upon our value system, but true agency, creativity, and freedom come from within, not from financial wealth. Instead, we assign worth to money based on what we collectively decide holds value.
As I delved into the world of cryptocurrency, I became intrigued by the origins and mechanics of monetary systems and how they mirror human identity. This exploration inspired me to create my first NFT collection, The Spirit Coin. I envisioned a series of hand-painted circular designs representing the intrinsic qualities that define us, stemming from our inner selves.
The Spirit Coin collection embodies the concept of connection over mere transactions. The second phase of this journey involved sharing more openly. Since my art was now displayed on digital screens, the way I conveyed its meaning evolved to ensure the message resonated with the audience.
Each digital scan of my physical artwork became an opportunity to tell a unique story and transmit an energy beyond the canvas. My commitment to maintaining my artistic practice while embracing new mediums motivated me to lean into digital expression. Rather than seeing the screen as a limitation, I viewed it as a portal that expanded the depth, narrative, and multi-dimensional aspects of my work. This shift led me to experiment with animation and sound, enhancing the vibrancy of my art.
During my MFA studies at The San Francisco Art Institute, a professor introduced a concept that still guides my creative process today: generosity in art. He challenged us to consider whether we were truly inviting our audience into our work or keeping them at a distance. He posed a thought-provoking question: Does this piece embody ‘joyful complexity’?
Joyful complexity refers to the balance between mastery and mystery—the willingness to embrace what we know while allowing space for discovery. It’s about persisting in the creative process until we find joy in the outcome.
One of the most uncertain times in recent history was during the peak of the pandemic. None of us knew how long it would last or what the future held. Simple activities, like grocery shopping, suddenly became highlights of the day.
And so, the final phase of this journey is EASE. Web3 propelled my artistic vision forward—not solely due to necessity, constraints, or technology, but because of the people within the space.
I let go of the belief that I had to navigate this journey alone. Western culture often emphasizes individualism and personal achievement, but Web3 fosters a different ethos—one of collaboration and collective success. Those immersed in this space recognize that we thrive through partnerships and shared efforts. Whether in art, business, or innovation, embracing community and co-creation is an essential step toward growth.
Trusting in the power of collaboration is an act of faith in our interconnectedness as human beings. Just as we rely on essentials like food, we also rely on one another. Community is a fundamental need, just like the groceries we buy to nourish ourselves.
One evening, as I loaded my car with bags of food, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. In that moment, I heard the word ‘groceries’ in a new way—interpreting it as ‘grow, share, ease.’ This simple realization embodies a powerful truth: When we grow, we have more to share, and when we share, we cultivate an ease that stems from abundance and connection.
