Step into the visionary world of Nill (@nillgraphic), a multidisciplinary artist whose work transcends boundaries, blending traditional artistry with cutting-edge digital innovation. With over 19 years of professional experience, a foundation in computer imaging, and a deep passion for visual storytelling, Nill has carved out a unique space in both the physical and digital art realms. From her early days mastering stippling techniques to her current prominence in the NFT and metaverse spaces — including showcasing at NFT NYC 2024 and adorning clothing with her designs at NFT Connect Paris — her journey is one of resilience, curiosity, and boundless creativity.
For Nill, art is not just a medium of expression but a universal language that explores the depths of human emotion, philosophy, and existence. Dive into this inspiring interview to discover how she fearlessly channels her inner world onto the canvas, pushing the limits of imagination and self-discovery. Read on to uncover the stories, insights, and creative philosophy behind Nill’s extraordinary artistic journey.
🟥 Can you share a bit about your background and the journey that led you to becoming an artist?
I am Niloufar Hosseini, born on September 30, 1991. I hold an associate degree in computer imaging and software, along with a bachelor’s degree/two semesters in visual arts, and have over 19 years of professional experience in the field of design and art. Since childhood, I have been passionate about drawing and started learning art at the age of 7 under the guidance of my esteemed teacher. Later, I pursued studies in computer imaging and completed coursework in visual arts. Alongside my academic education, I have also developed my artistic skills through self-learning and exploring various art styles. In 2021, I entered the world of NFTs, and since then, my brand, Nillgraphic, has expanded its activities into metaverse-related buying and selling. To date, I have achieved milestones such as showcasing my works at NFT NYC 2024, having my art printed on clothing and displayed at the NFT Connect Paris event, along with other accomplishments. I am grateful for the gift that allows me to express everything my mind and heart convey, using any tool I choose, to visualize the essence of my scientific and philosophical studies through dedicated artistic efforts.
🟥 Was there a defining moment or experience that solidified your decision to pursue art seriously?
Yes, during my teenage years, I had a strong passion for black and white, and the artworks I created were done with rapid pens in black and white. My style was dark, and everyone used to say that my thoughts were sinister. Every time someone criticized, mocked, or judged me and my work, it only strengthened my determination to take my art more seriously.
However, what had an even greater impact on me was an accident I had on the road, where both of my hands were injured — one required 34 stitches, and the other had to be fitted with a metal plate. While waiting for the ambulance, losing a lot of blood and drifting in and out of consciousness, I thought my hand was severed. In that moment, I felt deeply that if I couldn’t draw anymore, I’d rather die.
But later, as I recovered, I continued my work with more strength than ever before, and I still do. I also inspire others with the same spirit.
🟥 Do you remember the first piece of art you created, and what inspired you to make it?
The face of an old man that I created using stippling and a rapid pen. I wanted to study and practice so I could draw my father’s face; he inspired me with that passion.
🟥 What inspires you the most when creating your art?
All elements inspire me. It can be music, a memory, a person, my emotions, or something related to a book I’m reading. Usually, all of these factors together contribute to my inspiration. All the creatures and subjects I study also inspire me.
🟥 Are there specific activities, rituals, or moments that fuel your creativity?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no.
🟥 How would you personally define art, and what deeper meaning does it hold for you?
Yes, art holds a profound and multi-layered meaning. Art is not merely a tool for expressing emotions and ideas but a universal language capable of conveying complex philosophical, psychological, and cultural concepts through visual or auditory forms. It can serve as a reflection of the human condition, where history, identity, and both individual and collective experiences are interwoven. Moreover, art is a dynamic process in which creativity, imagination, and critical analysis combine to generate new cognitive structures.
On a deeper level, art can also have a therapeutic function, allowing individuals to explore and process unconscious or repressed emotions. On a metaphysical level, art can serve as a means to investigate the nature of existence, meaning, and even the concept of time.
🟥 What part of the creative journey excites you the most — conceiving an idea, the act of creating, or finishing the piece?
Completing the work, because it gives me the most insight, and sometimes I’m not fully aware of the complete story of my artwork. Finishing it reveals that to me.
🟥 Do you follow a structured plan when creating art, or is your process more spontaneous?
Completely spontaneous
🟥 What time of day do you feel the most creative, and why do you prefer that time for your work?
Night. Is calm
🟥 Do you listen to music while creating, and how does it influence your process?
Yeah . alot
🟥 Do you have any specific rituals or routines you follow before starting a new project?
Sometimes, yeah. Sometimes no.
🟥 What is the most challenging aspect of creating art, and how do you navigate those?
The most challenging aspect of creating art is dealing with mental and emotional instability during the creative process. An artist must confront uncertainty, fear of failure, and sometimes even an artistic identity crisis. These challenges can lead to confusion in the ideation process, over-analysis, or even creative blocks. Additionally, finding a balance between personal authenticity and external expectations is another fundamental challenge that can affect the creation of art.
To navigate these challenges, several approaches can be helpful:
- Embracing Uncertainty: Understanding that confusion is a natural part of the creative process helps reduce self-imposed pressure and creates a freer space for experimentation.
- Establishing a Creative Routine: Maintaining a consistent schedule for artistic work, even when inspiration feels distant, can help sustain momentum.
- Inner Reflection: Focusing on personal emotions and thoughts through writing, meditation, or discussions with others can help uncover hidden dimensions of the artwork.
- Experimentation: Exploring new styles, techniques, and materials liberates the artist’s mind from mental constraints and opens new paths for inspiration.
Ultimately, the most important point is for the artist to recognize that art is a journey, not a destination. Challenges are an integral part of this path, enriching the depth of the creative experience.
🟥 What keeps you motivated during times when creativity feels like a struggle?
Only Create. Living
🟥 Can you share an experience or lesson that contributed the most to your growth as an artist?
Study, anywhere and anytime, can involve examining the trunk of one tree alongside another, comparing colors, or exploring any subject. Always seek new things in art, create whatever guides your soul, and mark your works with history. In this way, you’ll be able to review and critique your own work from five years ago compared to now. Practice, effort, awareness, and study — these are things I recommend, even for myself.
🟥 Is there a piece of advice you received that completely changed the way you create or think about art?
Yes, in the early days of my artistic work, around the age of 17 or 19, I asked my esteemed teacher (Mr. Amjad Halabi Nezhad / Master), “Master, images form in my mind that I want to bring to life.” He told me, “Whatever passes through your mind, express it fearlessly, make it a visual mental purge.”
This sentence gave me the courage to let the pen move freely on the paper, to release it, and let it visualize. It was very impactful.
🟥 When you view a piece of art, what qualities or emotions do you look for?
When I look at a work of art, I allow it to reveal its characteristics to me. I let myself feel the emotions it conveys and understand them. Sometimes, it may make me think and clarify certain matters for me, and other times, it might tell me a story. So, I let the artwork speak freely, and I become fully engaged.
🟥 How do you perceive art’s purpose and its impact on individuals and society?
The purpose of art and its impact on individuals and society is deep and multifaceted. Art can be a tool for expressing emotions, thoughts, and personal experiences, while also serving as a medium for communication between individuals and different communities. On a personal level, art can help a person understand themselves better and express their inner feelings and thoughts. On a societal level, art can become a bridge that connects people from different cultures and backgrounds, fostering empathy and mutual understanding.
Art can also play a significant role in social awareness and cultural change. Through art, social and political issues can be challenged and brought to attention, while individuals exposed to the artwork may develop new perspectives and viewpoints.
In general, art can serve as a powerful tool for social change, raising awareness, and enhancing cultural development, as it has a profound impact on both the psyche of individuals and societal structures.
🟥 In your view, what do concepts like “passion” and “uniqueness” represent in art?
Uniqueness in art refers to the distinct characteristics of a work that set it apart from others, such as style, technique, or subject matter. It reflects the artist’s creativity and independent thinking.
🟥 What are the non-negotiable essentials in your workspace?
Nothing.
🟥 Do you have a favorite tool or object in your studio that holds sentimental value?
Yes
🟥 What’s the one thing you always need by your side while creating art?
Rapid and pen or my pc/ computer.
🟥 Who are the artists or people you admire the most, and why?
All those who don’t give up and seek to strive and learn. Many friends artists.
🟥 Imagine you could create a piece of art in collaboration with someone from history. Who would you choose and why?
Hitler. I was curious to understand what was going on in Hitler’s mind or what thoughts led him to give the order for the destruction of humanity. It’s fascinating to think that if he had created an artwork to express his thoughts and decisions, what kind of image would have emerged from his mind. Perhaps such an artwork could help us better understand how horrifying and ruthless decisions come to be and reveal the underlying factors behind such thoughts.
🟥 What’s your superpower?
Brain
🟥 What does success as an artist mean to you — recognition, impact, or something else entirely?
The most important thing for me is the journey, because success, in my view, is like a staircase. I don’t think I can assign a specific meaning or endpoint to it that would give it significance for me. It’s the path, its beauty, and the challenges along the way that matter.
🟥 Can you tell us about a piece of your art that holds a special place in your heart and why it’s so meaningful to you?
The Flight Piece. Right at the moment when I was on the brink of destruction, creating it brought the true meaning of the piece into my life, a rebirth. Its energy is indescribable over time. It is very spiritual and connected to a deep relationship with God, just like the piece itself.
🟥 What are your dreams or goals for the future?
Animation production, game creation, and newer artistic collections.
🟥 How would you define a “creative person”?
A creative person is someone who has the ability to see the world from a different perspective and can find new and unconventional ways to solve problems or express themselves. Creativity in them is reflected not only in generating new ideas but also in combining different concepts and experiences in a unique way. A creative person often goes beyond conventional boundaries, experiments, and is always in search of ways to bring fresh experiences and viewpoints to the world around them.
🟥 In your opinion, what are the positive and negative differences between being an artist today and being an artist a century ago?
The artist today differs significantly from an artist a century ago, both in terms of access to technology and connection with society and audiences. One positive difference is the access to advanced technologies like digital software, animation, and the creation of NFTs, which allows modern artists to create their works with more precision and speed and offer them to a global audience. For example, today’s artists can sell their works online and use digital platforms for promotion.
On the other hand, a negative difference is that modern artists may not have the same amount of space and focus as artists of the past to create. In the past, artists were more often in traditional art spaces and galleries, which provided them more opportunities for deep thought and creating art. Today, with social and economic pressures and the overwhelming amount of information, some modern artists may struggle to find the necessary focus to create lasting works.
🟥 In your opinion, what are the best and most challenging aspects of being an artist?
Creating artwork with different materials or concepts with the aim of education.
🟥 What advice would you give to aspiring artists who want to build a meaningful career?
Never give up
Learning… trying
Believe yourself.
Relevant Links:
Exchange Art: exchange.art/cs99acpnja7at5le9x71wi7mjxu3mxzsi298z3ovfvf4/nfts
Objkt: objkt.com/users/tz1gPJJ5H3ebLVxP7rYKYuB17QHDgRCex7BA
Twitter: x.com/nillgraphic
Links: linktr.ee/nillgraphic
Foundation: foundation.app/@nillgraphic
Note: The answers given by the artist have been quoted verbatim without any editing to preserve the artist’s authentic voice for our readers.
