Seol Won-rang

Q: What motivated you to start painting Minhwa (Korean folk art)?

Initially, I was researching Korean fantasy, monsters, and goblins simply because I wanted to draw Korean-style pictures. Then, I came across Minhwa—folk paintings created by people without formal education, which are sometimes clumsy yet full of humor. The charm of it being a form of 'decentralized art' resonated with me deeply, and I chose Minhwa because I felt it was a perfect match for NFTs, which also pursue decentralization.

Q: Could you tell us the story of how you started your project?

After spending a month or two in the NFT scene, I suddenly felt like I wanted to issue my own NFTs. At the time, I was very worried about whether I could actually do it. However, seeing Deodeok, a fellow ND SHEEPS CLUB (NSC) supporter, move forward with their project gave me confidence. I eventually started through NSC's creative support.

Q: How did you first encounter NFTs?

Like many others, I was already familiar with cryptocurrency and later started playing the P2E game 'Sard.' I started without even knowing what an NFT was, and after losing a significant amount of money shortly after, I began studying them. Calling it 'study' might be an overstatement; I mostly learned by participating in the NFT scene, asking questions, and looking things up. That was how I ended up at NSC after losing my money.

Q: Tell us about your first NFT work.

My first work is a vase of peonies titled . In the title, 'Barim' refers to a Minhwa technique of layering colors where the colors actually become more vivid as they bleed into each other. Due to their magnificent appearance, peonies have traditionally symbolized wealth and honor, and were mainly used to decorate bedrooms, bridal rooms, or for special occasions.

Q: You are currently working on two projects. Can you explain them?

I have a Minhwa project and a regular project. I want to refine my skills through the Minhwa project first and then upload the Korean-style fantasy I've always wanted to draw into a regular collection. For the Minhwa project, I am aiming for 100 classical and original folk art pieces. Once I have 100 works, my goal is to publish a 'Minhwa NFT Art Book' through crowdfunding platforms like Tumblbug.

Q: Why did you decide to produce an art book?

Many people feel that Minhwa is a world for older experts, but there are more and more paintings that reinterpret our traditions in a 'hip' way, such as modern Minhwa. I thought it would be great to introduce Korean beauty to the younger generation through NFTs.

Q: Is there a place where you found inspiration while searching for your artistic philosophy and style?

Personally, I consider the artist Dunbo to be my teacher (whether they accept me as a disciple is a matter for later...). I started my NFT activities with Dunbo's work 'Sanshin' (Mountain God), and since then, I have been learning a lot from their artistic philosophy and asking for advice.

Q: What is the most important aspect of your work?

I tend to focus on making sure warmth comes through in the paintings. I also use a Hanji (traditional Korean paper) canvas as the background to make the colors stand out more.

Q: How do you view the current state and future of the NFT market?

The projects from the past that were all talk have come and gone, and I think we are now in a period of 'separating the wheat from the chaff'—a time of competition among the genuine ones. Lately, I see many efforts to link NFTs with physical assets, and I am looking forward to the near future. In particular, I believe the real door to the NFT market will open when entry barriers are removed and accessibility for the general public improves, such as through credit card payments for NFTs.

Q: What would you say to those who are hesitating to start NFT activities?

The NFT world seems like a unique place. It can be a difficult market for skilled traditional artists to survive in, but instead, beginner artists with a specific message, unique character, or a story often receive attention. It is a market that no one can predict! You are welcome here!

Q: Is there anything you hope collectors feel through your work?

The cryptocurrency and NFT scene I first experienced felt quite fast and cold. I felt like I was falling behind if I didn't study or mint something every single day. However, amidst all that, there are many works that are warm and sentimental, contrary to the nature of the market. I want my work to be one of those.

Seol Won-rang's perspective on Minhwa is intriguing. The artist views Minhwa—a medium through which the public historically expressed themselves—through the same lens as blockchain, which decentralizes sovereignty. This connection feels consistent with the fact that the artist did not major in Oriental painting. Seeing the process of moving from an investor and collector to a creator who expresses their own thoughts and philosophy allows one to feel the new influence brought by the NFT market and the depth of Seol Won-rang as a character.