Meet Buba
Buba Viedma’s artistic journey began long before the digital era. "I've been drawing my whole life," Buba shares. In 2005, they pursued design studies, initially working in advertising while taking on commissions for music bands. Eventually, Buba transitioned to freelancing, focusing on illustration.
Their foray into digital art was serendipitous. "Like many of us who entered [NFTs] in 2021, it was by pure chance. Seeing other artists and friends talk about NFTs, I tried my luck. My work resonated, giving me enough financial independence to move away from client commissions and embrace the creative freedom this space offered."
Influential Blend
Buba’s work stands out, shaped by an eclectic mix of influences. "I've always been deeply interested in pop surrealism and lowbrow art," they explain. Growing up during a pivotal era for skateboarding and punk music in their country left a lasting mark, as did the comics and cartoons of their childhood.
Design studies and years of experience added layers to their artistic identity. "Right now, I apply all of this to my obsession with surrealism, symbolism, and the world of dreams," Buba reveals, describing their style as a vibrant amalgamation of cultural and personal influences.
The Digital Megalith
Buba’s journey into Bitcoin ordinals was accidental but transformative. "As I've learned more, I’ve become increasingly excited about the possibilities for digital creators. With ordinals, you don’t need to transition to physical mediums to give value to your work," they explain.
For Buba, the permanence and constraints of ordinals are key. "You’re inscribing something that will last forever. The file size limitations, while challenging, force you to focus on what’s important and make the most of your resources."
El Conejo y La Serpiente
Among Buba's creations, their Genesis piece El Conejo y La Serpiente holds special meaning. "It’s one of the simplest yet most special works I’ve created," they say. These characters, central to Buba’s dreamlike art, represent profound themes.
"The rabbit flees from the snake, but without fear. In doing so, it discovers itself and new worlds. Whenever these characters appear in my work, even in the background, it means I’m sharing something personal about myself."
Trad Art to Digital Necessity
Buba’s transition from traditional to digital art was shaped by practicality. "Back in 1980, there were no iPads, so I always used traditional methods," they recall. However, living in a small Madrid apartment meant limited space for physical art.
"I started using a Wacom tablet, and digital became the most practical option. On the computer, I had all the tools I needed within a neatly organized virtual world," Buba says. This shift not only solved logistical challenges but also opened up creative possibilities.
Lessons Learned
Reflecting on their journey, Buba emphasizes humility and gratitude. "I’ve always considered myself more of a graphic worker than an artist. My job was solving clients' communication problems, which taught me to keep my ego in check and be grateful for what I’ve achieved."
Personal experiences also shape their art. "Every life event, from the death of a friend to the birth of a child, matters. We all share similar artistic references, but our life experiences set us apart. These experiences filter through our minds, creating something truly unique."
Inspiration and Authenticity
Buba’s influences range from skate graphics to underground comics and the bold colors of the late ’80s. Yet, they avoid direct stylistic references when creating. "I just let it flow," they say. "It’s my personal way of approaching art—letting my brain handle it unconsciously."
The Fast-Paced Digital World
The digital art space is fast-moving, which presents its challenges. "I get a bit stressed by how quickly everything evolves," Buba admits. Yet, these challenges have fostered growth. "I’m becoming better at organizing myself and making the most of my time. It’s made me a better professional."
Rooted in Passion
For Buba, the ultimate goal is simple yet profound. "My only aspiration is to continue practicing this profession. It’s very difficult to build and maintain a career as an artist. There’s no greater reward than living your whole life doing what you love."
Advice for Artists
To emerging digital artists, Buba offers sage advice: "Make the most of the medium. Use its strengths, embrace its limitations, and think carefully before hitting 'inscribe'—there’s no 'undo' here."
Buba Viedma’s story is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the power of embracing one’s unique creative voice. Through Bitcoin ordinals, their work transcends mediums, leaving an indelible mark on the evolving world of digital art.
