Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Trisha Gianakis. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Trisha, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

Discovering my battle with cancer prompted me to reconnect with art as a form of healing, leading to daily dedication to my craft for the past eight years. Before becoming a full-time artist, I ran my own digital marketing agency with notable clients like Elton John, Queen Latifah, Breaking Bad, and the Grammys. Initially, I focused on networking both online and offline, participating in art groups and exhibitions.

Having a master’s degree in computer art has been pivotal, enabling connections with alumni networks and curated shows. Being selected by a curator to exhibit my work was a significant milestone, opening doors to opportunities like branding for the Art World Conference and speaking engagements, where I expanded my network.

Platforms like Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces have been vital for connecting with peers and professionals, fostering collaborations and increasing exposure. Venturing into NFT art has revolutionized my career, offering new avenues to showcase my work to a global audience.

Despite challenges, each experience has fueled my growth as an artist. Reflecting on my journey, I credit leveraging my educational background, teaching and actively seeking opportunities in the art world for accelerating my progress . I remain committed to evolving and flourishing creatively, embracing new opportunities along the way.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

For over 20 years, I’ve been a professional art director and user experience/interface designer, specializing in crafting websites and digital marketing strategies for the entertainment industry. Throughout my career, I’ve collaborated with renowned companies such as Major League Baseball, AMC TV, the Grammys and artists like Elton John, Bon Jovi and Queen Latifah.

In the past 5 years, I’ve also started teaching, serving as a professor at FIT, Saint Peter’s University, and BronxNet TV. My teaching areas include augmented reality, virtual reality, user experience design, web design, animation, and involvement with the Pavan print publication.

My artwork revolves around themes of healing, drawing inspiration from nature, humanity, and peace. I blend physical and digital art, integrating augmented reality, 3D animations, and XR/AR/VR technologies to create immersive Metaverse ArtWorlds. This intersection of mediums fuels my passion, and I believe we’re experiencing a digital renaissance—a truly exciting time for digital artists.

Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?

As someone deeply immersed in the art world, particularly through my work with the Fine Art Ledger and creation of NFTs, my perspective on NFTs is of its revolutionary potential. Through the Fine Art Ledger, we’re pioneering a groundbreaking Physical NFT platform, seamlessly blending traditional and digital art appreciation.

With NFTs art can go beyond innovation by democratizing art and leveraging NFTs, breaking down barriers and making art more accessible to all. My personal artistic endeavors reflect this ethos, as I create hybrid artworks that bridge the physical and digital realms, ensuring my creations are available and appreciated in the global art market.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

My art reflects how I navigate the realms of contemporary art through a profound exploration of self-discovery and the collective consciousness of humanity. Being an artist has always been part of my life, especially being raised by a mother who was a gallery director and artist/oil painter. Incorporating the emotions I have experienced; from the discovery of cancer, through the treatments, and now as a survivor I am able to express diverging themes of spirituality, femininity, rage, sex, even gratitude into my art. With the raku firing process, I paint with fire, I find that the smoke’s blackened surface on the exposed ceramic material emphasizes the power and drama of the emotion. The glazes produce a broad spectrum of color, while the high heat and reduction process create metallic or white crackle effects that are captivating. The digital aspect of my art is seamlessly integrated with the physical art with digital elements, using augmented reality to further tell my story with other 3d objects or animation to create an immersive experience.

I am deeply passionate about sharing my knowledge and skills with my students, the next generation of artists. Through teaching and mentoring, I am dedicated to nurturing their talents and empowering them to thrive in the art world. This commitment to education not only enriches the artistic community but also ensures a bright future for the world of creativity.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://trishgianakis.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trishgiaart/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trish-gianakis/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/trishgiagirl
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@gianakisfamily