WUF proudly presents WUF Studio Lugano, our new studio set to host groundbreaking interviews and dynamic press showcases, and WUFCAST, our video broadcasting platform that offers master classes and high-end aspirational content for journalists, creatives, and innovators.
We begin with an in-depth discussion featuring Skygolpe conducted by Luca Zuccala - journalist at ArtsLife - that goes beyond the digital surface to uncover the multifaceted perspective of an artist redefining contemporary art.
In this rare long-form interview with Skygolpe, an artist who defies the typical labels of digital artists, viewers can experience an authentic glimpse into his artistic philosophy and approach for a fresh perspective of what art means today.
The full version of the interview, now available on WUFCAST for free viewing:
Skygolpe is a paramount figure within the realm of digital art, notably in the domain of NFTs. In 2022, he transcended the digital sphere by successfully embarking on a journey into the world of physical art, unveiling his groundbreaking project, “Paint on Pixel,” through an auction at the esteemed Christie’s. Skygolpe’s emblematic, faceless portraits are the result of a singular fusion of tangible layers with digital elements. Over recent years, his market presence has culminated in a sales volume of several million euros, positioning him among the top 100 digital artists globally.Skygolpe's journey into the art world began during a pivotal existential crisis between the ages of 18 and 19, a period that forged his artistic identity. "This was the time I began to develop an artistic consciousness and decided to define myself as an artist," Skygolpe shares, tracing his path from introspection to expression.
His art is not confined to a single medium. Instead, Skygolpe merges physical and digital realms, creating a dialogue between the two through his "Paint on Pixel" series. This series epitomizes his quest to balance these mediums, reflecting a deeper contemplation of their roles. "Exploring the digital medium allowed me to reconsider my artistic and technical certainties, finding a balance between the tangible and the digital," he explains. This exploration results in artwork that layers physical textures with digital interventions, embodying a process of continuous transformation.
Skygolpe's philosophical approach to art deeply intertwines with his interest in broader disciplines such as psychology, history, and economics, enriching his artistic narrative. His works are imbued with a philosophical reflection on existence, seeing art as a fundamental expression of human experience and contradiction.
Discussing the role of artificial intelligence in art, Skygolpe sees both opportunities and significant ethical implications. "AI presents a new frontier for exploration but also a complex and potentially dangerous tool that requires philosophical and ethical awareness," he asserts. This duality reflects the core of his artistic inquiry: balancing innovation with critical reflection on its impact.
In the sanctity of his studio, described as a space of controlled chaos, Skygolpe finds the physical act of creating art therapeutic. "My studio is where I suspend rationality and engage in a spontaneous dialogue with my materials; it is both a battleground and a sanctuary," he describes. This chaotic environment is essential for his creativity, allowing him to craft pieces that challenge and communicate powerfully with the viewer.
In concluding his interview at WUF Studio Lugano with Luca Zuccala from ArtsLife, Skygolpe reflects on the complexities and contradictions inherent in defining art. Ultimately, he reveals how these contradictions, in fact, serve as a valuable source of inspiration and foundation for ongoing development and experimentation.