Kitasavi (born Nikita Savinov, 1992) is an artist merging 3D graphics, sculpture, and photography in his works. Coming from a background in graphic design, in his art practice Kitasavi is trying to deconstruct everyday life experiences and transform them into a never-before-seen reality where chaos is the only order. Organic shapes, whimsical characters, tangible textures, crazy colors, hidden easter eggs, humor, culinary and traveling references are his artistic approach.
Located somewhere between abstract and figurative, real and ethereal, chaotic at first glance, his works are thoroughly structured and balanced.
Currently based in Moscow, Russia.
READ Our Q&A with kitasavi Below
What have you been up to, what have you been working on over the last year?
In 2021 I’ve been able to stop working on client projects and to focus on my personal work – for the first time in my life. I’ve had my first ever group exhibitions in Buenos Aires (Argentina), Portland (USA), and Jose Ignacio (Uruguay), my first ever solo exhibition at Bright Moments Gallery in Los Angeles, and my first ever book publications.
Tell us a bit about your art practice and any key themes throughout your work.
In my art practice, I combine different techniques like 3D sculpting, photography, and painting. I’m trying to deconstruct everyday life experiences and transform them into a new unseen reality. I’d say the key themes throughout my work are human perception and memory.
How did you first hear about NFTs, what did you think and when was that?
I think I first saw the term “crypto art” in late 2019 or early 2020 on Instagram stories. I wasn’t sure what to think about it. I’ve checked out one of the platforms but everything looked like a mess there, so I got even more confused and forgot about it until early 2021. I got familiar with the word “NFT” when some of my artist and designer friends started selling their works, and I realized this is a chance for artists to have more financial and creative freedom.
What have NFTs enabled for you? (economically, creatively, community wise)
NFTs enabled me to finally start my journey as a full-time artist. Thanks to NFTs, I could upgrade my old laptop with a bloated battery to a powerful new one. I’ve organized my workplace and bought some artist equipment and tools. I’ve started making bigger, more complex, and thought-out pieces, experimenting with different techniques, animating my works, taking part in projects I could only dream of.
What attracted you about showcasing at Satellite?
Happy to show my works on another continent!
What are the NFTs myths you often dispel?
That NFTs are a scam, a Ponzi scheme, etc. I often hear this from people who don’t understand what NFTs and Web3 are and why they are important. Throughout history, people have been afraid of new technologies.
What advice do you have for other artists/collectors trying to break into NFTs?
Don’t think of it as a quick cash grab. It takes a lot of dedication, hard work, and networking to achieve something. You have to build your community, your brand, stay true to your craft, have your unique style. Don’t get upset if your works don’t sell, try not to compare yourself to others. We all have our own path and pace.
Who/what are your biggest influences and where do you find your inspiration for your art?
Can’t say they have a really big influence on my practice but I like works from Henrik Vibskov, Tony Oursler, Taylor A. White. As for my inspiration, going for a walk in the city center and visiting a good cafe or a restaurant is a great way to unwind and get new ideas for me. I love all the beautiful things created by the human race. Nature is not so attractive to me. I love architecture, contemporary art, good food, nice clothes, parties, and modern music; the more things like that I have in my life, the happier and more inspired I get.
Don’t miss seeing Kitasavi NFTs at Satellite 2022
A month-long, digitally immersive and sensory experience Bringing together over 40 NFT artworks from leading influential Australian and international artists, in Bondi Beach this March.
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