Guy set up Shogun Graphic Systems™ in 2001, providing a bespoke digital illustration and graphic design service to a wide range of international clients.
Working across editorial, apparel, movie licensing and beyond, Guy has extensive experience in delivering creative assets for an array of clients and agencies from start ups through to global blue chip companies.
He has exhibited work at Hero Complex Gallery in L.A & Comic Con in New York. Clients include Sports Illustrated, The Wall Street Journal, DC, Marvel, Lucasfilm, Disney & Fox TV amongst others.
Enter White Light, a groundbreaking NFT platform that unites the elite art sphere with the revolutionary Web3 on Ethereum. This platform not only connects artists and collectors but also nurtures a vibrant creative community. Additionally, it proudly supports The OPPO Foundation, a noble cause dedicated to assisting British Military Veterans. Today, we have the privilege of introducing the visionary behind the ‘Digital Punk’ NFT collection, none other than the internationally acclaimed artist, Guy Stauber.
Stauber presents his highly sought-after debut NFT collection. ‘Digital Punk’ is a captivating tribute to 80s Sci-Fi, capturing the rebellious energy and raw attitude of punk with its distinctive blend of traditional and digital artistic techniques. This remarkable fusion appeals not only to avid fans of punk culture but also to astute art enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate the seamless integration of traditional and digital art forms.
Interview with Artist Guy Stauber
Can you tell us a story about what brought you to the world of NFTs?
I was first introduced to the opportunities for artists through the NFT medium by my agent, Kevin Jones who runs KJA Artists and new NFT platform White Light. We talked about how it might work and what the landscape looked like and got to work. What appealed to me initially was the idea that the work can have an extended lifespan after it’s been sold, and the transparency of the blockchain.
What or who inspired you to pursue your career as an artist? We’d love to hear the story.
Many things inspire me like movies, popular culture, foreign cities and comic books. Discovering comics as a kid was a big one for me, I was an only child but never felt lonely if I had a big pile of Marvel single issues to work through. There are many artists who inspire me, a current favourite is Bill Sienkewicz, but the list is endless really.
What are some of the most interesting or exciting NFT projects you are working on now?
I have another 3 NFT sets ready to go with White Light, they include a futuristic warrior woman, a Hunter S Thompson style ape character and another Cyberpunk character.
I look forward to people seeing them but let’s see how the first set – Digital Punk – goes.
Was there a time when you did not believe in yourself? How did this impact your choices?
I have had many periods in my life where a career in the creative world seemed impossible. I lost my way more than once and ended up doing jobs I hated just for the money. It’s hard to believe under those circumstances that you have anything to offer so it’s easy to shut yourself off. But with help and support I went back to Art College as a mature student and have managed to carve out a space for myself in the creative industries.
So, how are things going today? What is your recipe for success?
Things are good, I’m lucky to work with passionate, driven people. Never give up, even when it seems hopeless. The harder you work, the luckier you get.
Which tips would you recommend to NFT artists starting out?
Try and hook up with an organisation or platform who understand the space. As an artist I know about creating the work, but there is so much technical and marketing knowledge required to launch a collection you need someone to hack through the jungle for you. That’s where I got lucky with White Light, we already had a relationship so I knew I could trust them and that they’d work hard on my behalf.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story?
I owe my parents a great deal, tireless support during difficult times and an unwavering belief in me and my creative aspirations. Back in the day before I had a portfolio or any experience they never doubted me and always pushed me forward. My partner is also a rock, living with an artist is a bit of a rollercoaster but she’s always got my back. I’ve had encouragement from many agents and art directors over the years who have opened many doors for me, and of course KJA have always been a great support.
What are your “3 things I wish someone told me before I minted my first NFT,” and why?
I haven’t actually minted my first NFT yet so we’re jumping the gun a little but the following would have been useful:
1 – Don’t underestimate the amount of marketing that will be required on this journey. Doing the work is only half the battle, the story is almost as important as the work.
2 – Keep an eye on the market, NFT is linked to crypto which is a crap shoot, particularly at the moment. Be prepared to take a gamble.
3 – Know that nothing will happen overnight and adjust your expectations accordingly, have a plan B that can keep you afloat while you’re navigating this brave new world.
Can you tell our readers what it is about the work you’re doing that’s disruptive?
I don’t think it’s particularly disruptive, but I do think it has plenty of swag and is hard to miss. My Digital Punks especially have loads of attitude and are quite edgy, love them or hate them but you can’t miss ‘em.
In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges faced by artists and the NFT industry today?
AI – although I suspect we’ll learn how to work with it, diminishing budgets, cost of living, unstable crypto markets, unpredictable income streams, dishonest brokers in the digital space, and the list goes on. It’s hard times for creators right now which is why I’m excited to see what the NFT world brings.
How can our readers collect your art or follow you online?
KJA-artists.com
whitlightnft.io
Insta – @white.light.nft
Twitter @WhiteLightNFT
