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GM GM Everyone,
Really excited to be sharing this artist feature with you all. Bassil Taleb is an artist I actually had not heard of before one of the Ogi subscribers mentioned we should chat. And I am really glad I followed through with this advice. It reminds me that this space is large and huge. And even if I am pretty connected to it, you can still meet/learn about new people or things every single day. It is why I created this newsletter to begin with to cover the wide array of topics, people and tech out there so we can all learn together!
Back to Bassil, I got really lucky that this is not Bassil’s first time doing an interview so I was able to ask some really pointed questions. I know that this caught him a bit off guard, but I really do think it led to some great responses I hope you enjoy this conversation and learning about Bassil and his art and history as a person. So find yourself a nice seat, pour yourself a cup of coffee and enjoy!
Interview
What are five words you would use to describe yourself? and why?
First, Resilience: It defines much of my journey. Leaving Syria and adapting to new cultural environments in Lebanon and then in Turkey, while maintaining dual careers, required a robust ability to overcome difficulties. This resilience isn't just about surviving; it's about thriving and finding ways to turn each challenge into an opportunity for growth. It instills in me a realistic yet hopeful outlook towards the future.
Second, Dreamer: My ambitions often require a vision that transcends immediate possibilities. Dreaming big has allowed me to comfort myself amidst challenges, staying motivated and focused on my long-term goals no matter the obstacles. This trait fuels my creative endeavors, pushing me to explore and manifest new ideas that resonate with shared human experiences.
Third, Contemplative: I'm driven by a deep curiosity about the world around me. My desire to understand goes beyond the superficial; I seek to understand the underlying concepts that shape our experiences. This compels me to continuously learn and connect ideas across diverse disciplines, allowing me to develop and refine my perspectives. It helps me create works that reflect a deeper understanding of human identity and what connects us all together.
Fourth, Resourceful: In both my art and architecture, I've had to be highly dedicated to finding innovative solutions often under tight constraints. Navigating these two realms—one highly physical and the other highly digital—encourages me to allow each side to feed off the other. This ability to adapt and optimize resources has been crucial in managing dual careers and in my creative processes.
Fifth, Methodically Reflective: Despite being highly resourceful, I often embrace a methodically reflective pace. I might even call it procrastination. This deliberate slowing down allows me to fully explore ideas and ensure that my creative output is not only comprehensive but also deeply impactful and well-considered. It's about quality and depth, taking the time to let concepts mature and evolve organically. This approach also means making sacrifices, such as stepping a bit outside the fast pace of social media and the market.
What are you reading or watching these days?
Currently, I’m immersed in a Blade Runner marathon. I'm revisiting the original film, Blade Runner 2049, and the shorts released just before the latter. I’m also diving into fan theories and online discussions about this world. I have a profound appreciation for sci-fi; it’s a genre that, with its technological leanings, deeply explores the human condition. Sci-fi allows us to reflect on our current values, contemplate how they might evolve, and consider what values we want to nurture for the future. Blade Runner tackles these themes wonderfully I feel.
What are some of your hobbies or activities you like to do to unplug from the space?
I really enjoy unwinding with a few different activities. I'm a football fan, though I don't get to play as often as I'd like or as much as I used to, but watching a good match, especially European football, is always entertaining this time of year. Gaming with my son is always a blast—even if I'm usually on the losing side. And movies are my go-to; I love settling down with a good film or getting hooked on a limited series. It's the perfect way to take a break and lose myself in another world for a while.
In your interview with Blockchain Art Directory, you said “my passion for generative art began to take shape during my later years of study” what triggered this?
My fascination with generative design sparked during my later years of study when I was first introduced to it. The idea of incorporating software into the creative process and delegating part of this process to a machine was thought-provoking. In a profession that often prides itself on surface talent and personal touch, it felt humbling to explore this new avenue. I began by learning coding, which I then applied to school projects, gradually moving towards creating artworks that were studies in form. These were attempts to mimic the creation of something that resembles a living being using generative methods. This exploration seemed like a natural progression given my background in architecture—a field that, like programming, deals with systems characterized by a great deal of unpredictability personified by human behavior. My interest in computers meshed seamlessly with these concepts, guiding me towards the blend of art and technology that defines my work today.
You stated in the same interview that you love this piece (Several Aspects from A Single Vantage | Bassil Taleb) the most at least that point in time
What stood out to me was in the description you wrote “the piece presents a unique perspective on the contrast between our self-image and how others perceive us” my question is, how would you apply this to yourself? How do you view yourself vs what you think others view you?
Exploring the contrast between self-image and external perceptions is a central theme of the piece, "Several Aspects from A Single Vantage." This artwork, featuring a tessellated cube that rotates to reveal different faces but never fully exposes itself, symbolizes the nuanced way we present ourselves across various contexts. Personally, I see this as reflective of how we all navigate different roles and environments, each influencing our behavior and self-presentation. In my own life, I occupy various roles: a parent, a husband, an artist, an architect, a content creator on social media, and a passionate football fan, etc... Each role requires a different facet of my personality to come to the forefront or to be more dominant than another at a time, much like how the cube in my artwork reveals different aspects while concealing others. This piece underscores the idea of perpetual assessment, whether by an actual audience or the metaphorical one we imagine. It speaks to a broader human condition where we are continually shaped by both our self-perception and how we perceive others viewing us. The awareness of these multiple layers of identity—what's visible to others and what remains hidden—is what I find intriguing and integral to understanding ourselves and our interactions. As for how the world views me, I acknowledge that it's something I can't completely control. On social media, where I am naturally a private person, I am still navigating how much of myself I feel comfortable sharing. It’s a gradual process, but I am becoming more at ease with revealing more about myself, balancing privacy with the desire to connect more openly while, above all, being honest and truthful.
Do you think your upbringing influenced your art in anyway? How so?
Absolutely, my upbringing has been a profound influence on my art. As a parent now myself, I've come to appreciate even more deeply the virtues my parents sought to instill in us—openness, acceptance, humility, curiosity, and perseverance. These are not just personal values; they are recurrent themes in my art. They shaped who I am, and although I may not have fully grasped their importance at the time, I can now see their traces in my work and my approach to life. My parents also nurtured my creative impulses. Whenever they noticed a spark of creativity, they encouraged it, which helped me to not only develop my artistic skills but also to value the process of creation itself. This support was crucial, allowing me to explore my interests freely and confidently, which is something I strive to pass on through my own parenting and my artistic expression.
How was VerticalCrypto Art Residency program? How did it help you?
The VCA Residency program was undoubtedly one of the highlights of my journey in the NFT space and remains one of the best decisions and opportunities I've pursued. It was pivotal at a time when my cohort was just beginning, as it affirmed my place in the NFT world and unveiled a side of this space that transcends the mere market aspects, yet remains integrally connected to it. The mentorship I received was invaluable. My mentors not only provided me with essential advice but also fostered personal relationships that have been profoundly enriching. The program helped me to focus and structure my art career more effectively, boosting my confidence and encouraging me to tackle complex and perhaps less popular topics within the space.
While I hope the program resumes and continues to contribute significantly to the community, its impact during its tenure is undeniable and continues to resonate with my work.
What led you to minting in 2021 your first piece? Object 3 / View 1. I know you mentioned something transformational happened in your personal life, so was curious what made you take the leap after being in Twitter for close to a decade.
That decision was significantly influenced by the transformative period following the pandemic, a time of reflection and change for many, including myself. Learning about NFTs, primarily through the surge of media attention at the time, opened up a new realm of possibilities for me. It presented an intriguing opportunity to take control and bring a personal aspect of my art into a public and dynamic space. Although I’ve been on Twitter for nearly a decade, I’ve never really been comfortable with its pace and intensity, it always felt too loud and too demanding for my taste. However, since Twitter is a central hub for the NFT community, I recognized the need to adapt. It took some time, but I believe I've found a good balance. Engaging in the NFT space allowed me to navigate and utilize Twitter in a way that supports my artistic goals without overwhelming my personal sensibilities.
Is there anyone in your life (web3, history, irl) that inspires you? If so, what are the biggest lessons you have learned from them?
I'm generally skeptical about the notion of inspirational figures or heroes, especially in historical contexts, perhaps due to an inherent mistrust of authority figures. However, in the realm of web3 art, I deeply admire A. L. Crego. He stands out as one of the most significant voices in this space. His work is not only prolific but also consistently engaging, showcasing an incredible range of captivating pieces. Technically, he's a master of his craft, always pushing the boundaries of his medium with perseverance and a drive that seems indifferent to external reactions.
From him, I've learned the importance of dedication to one's art and the value of advancing one's medium without the expectation of recognition. His approach inspires me to continually move forward and strive for improvement in my own work.
You joined on the run up for NFTs and now we are in the bear. How are you coping with this bear market? Does it influence your decision on when you do drops?
The bear market has definitely required some adjustments in my approach. While I've decreased the frequency of my releases compared to the high-energy days of 2021, it hasn't meant a reduction in the amount of work I put into my art. The past two years have been a mix of frustration and opportunity, but I believe I've found a good balance moving forward. In planning my releases, I now consider a broader set of variables, but my primary focus remains on maintaining high quality and consistency in my work. The challenging market conditions have, in a way, provided a silver lining by allowing me to slow down, enhance the quality of my pieces, and set more realistic expectations. This approach not only aligns with my artistic values but also seems to resonate well within the current market dynamics.
What does a typical day look like for you?
My day begins early with some cherished family time before I head to my day job. Throughout the day, even as I manage my architectural tasks, my mind often drifts to my art pondering over ongoing projects or new concepts I wish to explore. I carve out moments for social media and online interactions with friends, which keeps me connected to my community.
After work, I dedicate the evening to quality time with my family, which helps me recharge. Then I delve into my art again, experimenting and executing new ideas. This schedule is certainly demanding, but it's also immensely rewarding. I continuously monitor my energy levels and well-being to maintain focus on what truly matters in the long run.
Will we see a physical + nft drop from you? Have you ever thought about exploring that?
I am indeed contemplating several concepts that could merge the physical with NFTs, leveraging the unique capabilities of generative art. The idea of a machine continuously producing art holds immense potential and charm when executed properly. Inspired by Theo Jansen’s “Strandbeest”, which fascinated me early in my career with its autonomous, purpose-driven design, I’ve long aspired to create similar entities. These would be beings with a defined "purpose," able to function independently.
While these ideas are still in the early stages of development, I see substantial possibilities for integrating NFTs with physical art forms to create something truly innovative. I’m optimistic that in about two years, I’ll be able to release projects that not only realize these ideas but also bring fresh innovation to the space.
Do you collect any pieces from any other artists, if so who are your favorites?
While I wouldn't classify myself as an art collector, I do collect works from artists whose creations inspire and resonate with me. It's challenging to single out individuals, but I’d like to mention a few artists whose pieces I’ve recently acquired: Christian Bok, Helio Santos, and Danielle King. All three were part of my cohort during the VCA residency, and their works continue to inspire me.
Additionally, I am particularly fond of Kitel’s “Fields of The Abandoned Homeland.” This generative collection not only showcases the aesthetic and technical capabilities of generative art but also creates a deep emotional connection. It resonates profoundly with my personal journey, highlighting how generative art can transcend its visual and technical aspects to touch on something deeply human. This piece is truly remarkable.
What are your thoughts on Farcaster as an artist and someone who have been on Twitter for a while?
Initially, the idea of starting anew on another social network like Farcaster seemed daunting, but I've found the experience quite enjoyable. A lot of this enjoyment comes from the familiar faces in the community that welcomed me, which made it feel less like starting from scratch and more like joining friends in a new space. Farcaster seems to blend the best features of Twitter and Discord effectively at least for the purposes it was built for, creating a delightful user experience. There's a palpable collective effort to maintain a less intense atmosphere compared to Twitter, which I appreciate. As a result, I find myself spending more time on Farcaster these days, and I believe it has the potential to become an essential portal for the web3 community if it continues to evolve in this direction.
Final Remarks
Before wrapping up, I also want to take the time to thank the Ogi subscribers out there that support my work. You all give me the energy and support to do all this ❤.
Seattledog.eth, Macvynls.eth, K017G.eth, OG.eth, Lucrece.eth, Johann.eth Yungwknd.eth
A couple of things that jumped out to me. One is just the amount of hopefulness that jumped out at me while reading his responses. It might be my own bias as my family as well fled during a war but when you go through some shit there are usually two ways people react and one is stay in a rut for a while and another way is you are hopeful of a better day and you have dreams and persevere. And I really felt this emotion in reading Bassil’s responses. Seeing Blade Runner and the comment of escaping reality with a good series, movie or book resonated with me. I went deep into Harry Potter books or anything Sci-Fi related at a young age for this reason.
Another aspect that jumped at me was just how much the architecture background influences people to get into art. It reminded me of when I spoke to Ivan Casis Jr on the podcast, he also was an architect and how that really influenced his work. In some of the work that Bassil has the movement made are similar to one found in Ivan’s work. Overall the upbringing, the nurturing of his skill, the opportunities Bassil was given and his pursuit of new mediums has led to the wonderful result of beautiful art.
Keep on creating Bassil!
Fin
I hope you all have a great rest of your week. Make sure to share and tag a friend that may enjoy this content. If you have other artist, collectors or builders you would like me to speak to, message me.
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