DeeKay is a digital artist based in the USA, contributing to the evolution of art through his unique digital creations. In this upcoming interview, we will delve into DeeKay’s artistic journey, starting from his childhood fascination with drawing to his groundbreaking project “LetsWalk Finale 1/1.” Our conversation will touch on DeeKay’s perspective on digital art’s emotional impact, his exploration of both web2 and web3, and his plans for a solo exhibition in Korea. DeeKay also reveals his views on the current state of the NFT Art scene, his wish for a shift towards more genuine art appreciation, and his eagerness to collaborate with artists like Xcopy. This conversation offers an intimate look into the ever-changing world of digital art through the eyes of an influential creator.
NFT Granny: “Dear DeeKay, thank you very much for taking your precious time. I have a bit of a naive but curious question about digital art. Since digital art is not always touchable, do you think it loses some of the emotional impact that traditional art forms have?“
DeeKay: I don’t believe so. When you observe the top 2D or 3D animated movies, mangas, games, or any form of entertainment, their impact on us has consistently been profound, possibly surpassing that of traditional art. The only distinction lies in how these works are not commonly perceived as art, despite being wholeheartedly embraced and appreciated. In my view, this entertainment transcends mere artistry, and people don’t just recognize it.
How did you first become interested in art, and how did you get started with it yourself?
DeeKay: I have always been interested in drawing ever since I was a little kid. I discovered that the only thing I could truly concentrate on was drawing. Besides doodling, I struggled to give my attention to any other subjects. As a result, I naturally gravitated towards art school to explore the possibilities of what I could do with my artistic talents.
Could you tell us more about the story of your work “LetsWalk Finale 1/1”, owned by Mondoir which we exhibited on the Collectors Wall in The Blockchain Gallery in Austin, TX?
DeeKay: LetsWalk is a walk-cycle animation project with the ambitious goal of creating 100 unique characters that can coexist in a shared world. The project spanned over a year and a half, from 3/17/2021 to 10/27/2022. Some of these characters hold a special place in my childhood memories, while the rest are purely creations influenced by my daily life experiences. My final vision for this project was to seamlessly integrate all these characters into a single frame, known as the LetsWalk Finale, which was sold at Sotheby’s.
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Which of your artworks are you most proud of?
DeeKay: I am usually proud of all my 1/1 artworks, but I suppose the ‘Life and Death’ piece holds a special significance as it has garnered attention from many and touched the hearts of numerous individuals.
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Is there an artist you would like to work with? Like a collaboration?
DeeKay: Perhaps Xcopy, as I admire his art and appreciate how his style is almost the opposite of mine.
We are curious 🙂 Would you be willing to share any plans of upcoming projects?
DeeKay: Currently, I am focusing on both Web2 and Web3, aiming to expand my brand as much as possible. I am preparing for my first solo exhibition in Korea and hoping for more opportunities like this, where my artworks can be displayed in galleries or museums. My goal is to pave the way for digital artists like myself to gain respect and recognition within the traditional art world and the Web3 sphere.
Do you remember the first time you heard about NFT Art?
DeeKay: Yes, my friend Gavin Shapiro, who is also an artist and involved in the space, informed me about it. However, I didn’t take it seriously until a year later and finally decided to join the space in March 2021.
How do you enjoy the NFT Art you have collected? Do you have a way to display it for example at home?
DeeKay: I collect a lot of art from different artists as NFTs, but I don’t display them as I am a very minimalistic person in real life. I don’t even own a house or a car, and the only physical thing that is important to me is my computer. However, I do frequently look at my personal collection.
What would be your biggest wish for the NFT Art scene? What is currently missing / not fully developed to reach full potential out of it?
DeeKay: It is fair to say that over 90% of the space is heavily driven by monetary factors and provides a more trader-friendly environment. The remaining 10% comprises the true art lover community, who consistently purchase and collect artworks they genuinely love and appreciate, without being solely influenced by financial considerations. I hope that this 10% can grow to at least 50%..
What is the most disturbing thing when it comes to NFTs and cryptoart in your opinion?
DeeKay: People often tend to judge too quickly without seeing the full picture. I still receive criticism from my followers who view NFTs as scams. I don’t blame them, as the subject of blockchain technology and NFTs can be initially confusing to grasp. However, it is indeed true that there are numerous scams in this space, and it is necessary for stringent regulations to be implemented before it can truly become mainstream in the future.
What does a typical day for you look like, and what do you like to do when you’re not busy with NFT Art?
DeeKay: Pretty much like any ordinary person, I engage in activities such as sleeping, watching movies, exercising, gaming, and so on. However, I do believe that I spend more time at home than most people, perhaps to an excessive extent.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
DeeKay: The key to a happy life is to pursue the things you love. When you have a genuine passion for something, you naturally engage in it endlessly. Through this continuous practice, you develop and refine your skills until you reach a level of mastery. Once you become a master, life begins to work in your favor, presenting opportunities and rewards aligned with your expertise.
Full Name: Deekay Kwon
Date of Birth: 1989
Current hometown: USA
Languages he speaks: : Korean and English
What did you want to be when you were a child: Taekwondo Olympic athlete, game designer
Education: Graduated highschool but dropped out of college
First job: : Quiznos sandwich maker
