Meet Fernando
Fernando Cabral hails from a small town in Argentina, yet his work has reached audiences worldwide. Despite creating intricate digital works, he hesitates to call himself an artist. “I create art with code,” he explains, though most people struggle to grasp what that truly means.
His path to generative art began in 2020, during a time when he sought change. Teaching himself programming, he discovered NFTs and the world of generative art a year later. “I was fascinated. I set aside web and app development to focus entirely on creating art through programming,” he recalls. Though always drawn to art, he never considered himself skilled at traditional drawing. Coding gave him an unexpected yet natural way to express creativity.
In early 2022, he released his first generative collection of 25 pieces, marking the beginning of an unforeseen journey. “It has been incredible, allowing me to connect with people from all over the world,” he shares. His work has since expanded across multiple blockchains, but it was Bitcoin that captured his attention as a means of ensuring long-term preservation. “My experience with Bitcoin has helped me refine both my art and my code,” he says.
Finding His Voice
Fernando’s art is not just about aesthetics; it’s about emotion. “I want my art to evoke feelings, invite reflection, and create a sense of connection,” he explains. Yet his process is rarely predefined. “I rarely start with a clear idea. I begin experimenting with code, and as I work, ideas emerge organically.”
One crucial element in his work is texture. He aims to make his digital creations feel tangible, evoking the warmth and depth of traditional art. “I don’t want my work to be perceived solely as digital,” he says, emphasizing his desire for a more immersive visual experience.
The Bitcoin Experience
After launching his work across various blockchains, Fernando found himself drawn to Bitcoin Ordinals. “Bitcoin felt like the best way to preserve my art long-term,” he explains. However, the experience was vastly different from other blockchains.
“Each piece must be carefully optimized due to size limitations and inscription costs,” he shares. This challenge pushed him to refine his approach, ensuring his art remained impactful despite constraints. “The Bitcoin art community has been a key part of this journey, connecting me with artists who share the same vision of permanence and artistic value on the blockchain.”
Who Am I?
Among his many creations, Fernando highlights his recent collection, Who am I. “I started working on it a year ago, exploring introspection and the universal question of identity,” he explains. “This project reflects my own journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.”
While he has no formal background in traditional art, his creative spark was always there. “I never studied art, but I believe it was always inside me, waiting for the right moment to surface,” he reflects.
A Purpose Found
Fernando believes that art has not only shaped his career but also his personal development. “Art came into my life when I was full of questions and doubts. It helped me focus, find purpose, and gain clarity amid uncertainty,” he says.
His journey has also been shaped by his influences. “When I discovered generative art, the first artist I saw was Tyler Hobbs. His use of ‘flow fields’ became a foundational concept in some of my work,” Fernando shares. He also finds inspiration in the daily works of lesser-known artists. “These influences often surface unconsciously in my creations.”
Refining an Approach
Navigating the evolving digital art space has required adaptability. “As a creator, I had to quickly adapt to new technologies, but also learn patience, perseverance, and resilience,” he says.
Technical limitations, particularly when optimizing his work for Bitcoin, tested him. “At first, I was frustrated, but I saw it as an opportunity to refine both my art and my programming skills. Every challenge has pushed me to find creative solutions.”
Building Ahead
As Fernando continues his journey in digital art, he aims to further explore the permanence of art on the blockchain. “I want to develop more complex projects that truly leverage Bitcoin's unique capabilities,” he shares. Building deeper connections within the Bitcoin art community is also a priority.
Advice for Others
For those looking to integrate cryptocurrency into their art, Fernando emphasizes the importance of education. “Take the time to learn about the technology and tools available. The NFT and crypto space can be challenging, so preparation is key,” he advises.
Flexibility and perseverance are crucial. “Every experience, good or bad, is a learning opportunity. Connect with the artist community—those relationships are invaluable for both artistic and personal growth.”
Fernando’s journey showcases the intersection of technology and artistry, proving that creativity can emerge in unexpected ways. His story is one of transformation, resilience, and the boundless possibilities of digital expression.