Mariela Victoria is deeply inspired by the fusion of pop art and abstract expressionism. Initially an escape, her art evolved to a passion. Her vibrant, colorful pieces reflect her journey and Mariela hopes that as she pieces together her own narrative, it resonates with and supports others on their paths.

FOR THE LOVE OF META is a celebration of web3 culture. It reflects the things Mariela finds most captivating about this space and how it connects to her journey.

Check out her drop with OpenSea here.

OpenSea: Could you introduce us to your art style and the main themes you explore in your artwork?

Mariela Victoria: At the heart of my art style lies a lifelong journey of drawing, shaped by extensive freehand practice, trial and error, and a continuous exploration of color. Influenced by the vibrant and playful color choices of artists like Damien Hirst, Andy Warhol, and Keith Haring, my work embodies a blend of pop art aesthetics. While some pieces showcase intricate details and complexities, my recent works often explore simplicity through iconic forms and visual motifs.

OpenSea: Can you walk us through your creative process when developing an NFT collection or piece?

Mariela Victoria: When starting a project, I typically begin by defining a thesis that explores current narratives and integrates personal experiences. This initial step helps me establish the subject matter of the artwork. Drawing inspiration from sources like 'The Dictionary of Color' and 'The Package Design Book' by Taschen, I delve into design books for both visual techniques and conceptual ideas.

Next, I use Figma to organize my project flow and create a mood board, which serves as a visual guide for objectives and timelines from conception to completion. Transitioning to my iPad, I sketch initial concepts and outlines, refining them further on Adobe Illustrator and/or Procreate. These tools offer dynamic capabilities that are essential for bringing my ideas to life.

Throughout the process, I meticulously document each stage of development, enabling me to evaluate and refine the artwork until I achieve a sense of completion. However, the creative journey is not without its challenges. I often encounter mental blocks and undergo numerous iterations, which can be physically and mentally taxing. During such times, I find it beneficial to disconnect temporarily, reset, and return to the project with a fresh perspective.

This approach not only facilitates the evolution of my artwork but also enhances my understanding of when a piece is truly finished.

OpenSea: Can you discuss any unique challenges or opportunities you encounter when creating art, specifically for the digital realm of NFTs?

Mariela Victoria: I find great opportunities in this space to be able to establish myself as a digital artist, as web3 empowers artists with freedom to express, ownership, and transparency, reshaping the digital art landscape. web3's decentralized blockchain technology enables direct artist-collector engagements globally, offering greater autonomy in setting terms and pricing. However, adapting to web3 requires navigating complexities such as blockchain transactions and environmental impacts, amidst ongoing development in scalability and regulatory frameworks. Despite these challenges, I find that web2 platforms, while accessible, often involve intermediaries like galleries, limiting direct artist-collector interactions and control over pricing.

OpenSea: What motivated you to create on Base? How do you think Base's features will benefit your artistic expression?

Mariela Victoria: I was motivated to create artwork that brings a fun, bright, and fresh visual approach to Base. With many amazing creators trying to establish themselves on this platform, I see the relative newness of Base as an opportunity, as well as the low transaction costs. Furthermore by introducing a unique style, I believe I can stand out and benefit from the growth of this vibrant community in the future.

OpenSea: How has blockchain technology influenced or changed the way you approach art creation?

Mariela Victoria: Blockchain technology has significantly influenced my art by immersing me in the memetic culture of the web3 space. While web2 players might recognize some similarities, the nuances of web3 require active participation and staying up-to-date with the latest narratives. This dynamic environment shapes my creative approach, pushing me to stay engaged and innovative.

OpenSea: How do you plan to engage with your audience through your NFTs on OpenSea? Are there any interactive elements or community-driven aspects to your work?

Mariela Victoria: Whether you are in web3 for art or for the cultural aspect of it, I think my art brings something for both sides. Be it the nostalgic elements and colorful pop art style or the cultural references. I believe this dual approach makes viewing the art a fun and engaging experience for everyone.

OpenSea: What future developments in the NFT space excite you the most, and how do you plan to incorporate these into your future projects?

Mariela Victoria: I look forward to documenting the history of this space while creating my own IP and using color to connect and create meaningful art. 

OpenSea: What advice would you give to artists who are new to the NFT space and are considering launching their first digital collection?

Mariela Victoria: My advice to artists new to the NFT space is to immerse yourself in the community. Engage with other creators, learn about the culture, and stay updated on the latest trends. Authenticity is key—create what you love and let your passion show through your work. Don’t be afraid to experiment and take risks. Also, pay attention to the technical aspects of launching an NFT collection, such as choosing the right platform and understanding the importance of smart contracts and metadata. Building relationships and maintaining a presence in the community will help you grow and find your unique place in the NFT world.

OpenSea: Where do you see the future of digital art and NFTs heading in the next five years? How do you hope to contribute to this future?

Mariela Victoria: While it's difficult to predict exactly where NFTs will be in the next five years, I am optimistic about their potential. My hope is to contribute by onboarding as many artists as possible, helping them share their voices and stories. By leading by example and fostering a supportive community, I aim to help artists find their tribe and thrive in the digital art space.