Interview with Nicole Ruggiero

Nicole Ruggiero in her New York home studio.

I had the pleasure of chatting with Nicole Ruggiero, a 3D artist based in New York. Nicole's work, inspired by video games and the internet, explores the intersection of technology and culture. During our conversation, Nicole discusses her journey into digital art, emphasizing the role of online forums in shaping her early experiences. We also explore her recent projects, including an animated series called Wish ‘N Wash, set in a late/post-capitalist society. Nicole shares her insights on the evolving role of digital and 3D art, noting a shift towards exploring nostalgia in various forms.

Click on this image for more information and to register.

Nicole and I are teaming up for the "Mixing Digital and Physical Worlds Workshop" on Dec 16, 2023, at 9 am PST / Noon ET. Join us for a 1.5-hour exploration of tools for 3D and 2D art, NFTs, and bridging the digital-physical gap. Engage in a discourse on web3, blockchain, and NFTs. This donation-based workshop ($11 - $33) ensures accessibility for all and nobody will be turned away for lack of funds.

You can learn more and register for it here.

My Interview with Nicole

1. Would you mind introducing yourself and letting us know a little bit about you and your work?

Hi I'm Nicole! I make 3D art about the internet and technology. I've always loved connecting with people through tech and I love adding a bit of warmth to something that can typically feel pretty cold.

2. Is there a reason you started to work digitally? What has that journey been like for you?
That's a good question. I actually started making digital art when I was about 12.  Before that I didn't really have anyone to show my work to, but being on online art forums made me feel pretty excited to share my work and get critique.

3. Is there a recent project you’ve done that you’re particularly proud of? If so, why?
Recently I've been working on this animated series with my partner, PLANTTDADDII, called the Wish ‘N Wash.  It's about a late/post-capitalist society, in a world where soap is scarce so people go to the local Wish N Wash laundromat and casino to win soap and wash their clothes.

I also have another WindowsXP themed piece that I’m coming out with sometime in January that I’m pretty excited about.

Collaboration with PLANTTDADDII, 2022, sold on SuperRare & 2/2 editioned prints.

4. Could you share your perspective on the role of digital and 3D art in the contemporary art world and how it has evolved over the years?
Originally I think 3D art was somewhat of a novelty. Now I'm seeing a lot of people making work with different forms of 3D nostalgia whether that be for video games or for previous digital eras. And, of course, 3D technology is heavily used in the metaverse or in digital worlds.

5. What advice would you give to emerging artists who are looking to make their mark in the world of 3D and digital art, considering your own journey and success in this field?
Right now, I feel like there are two pathways. The first pathway is to play into social media algorithms. The second pathway is getting into NFTs and related communities. The former is more client-focused, and the latter is more artwork-focused. I think a mixture of both is a good balance if you can manage it.

6. As a 3D visual artist, your work often blurs the line between the virtual and physical worlds. How do you see the future of art evolving in the context of emerging technologies, such as virtual and augmented reality?
I was just talking to my partner about this and we were talking about how one day we're going to have to explain to younger generations what a mouse cursor was LOL. I mean we're already seeing this, for example, with Meta and Ray-Ban’s collaboration on the smart glasses.

7. Collaboration and curation are part of your creative portfolio. Could you share an experience or project that challenged your artistic boundaries and pushed you to explore new creative territories?
I think the Wish ‘N Wash is something that has really pushed me. For the onset of this project I decided to sculpt and rig all of my characters from scratch and that's been a huge creative journey. First, I had to learn all the tools to do this and then I had to execute it. I'm still learning how to do all this. Sometimes it's discouraging but it’s also rewarding. I'm always getting better and trying my best.

8. What are some of the things that inspire you and/or your art?
I'm really inspired by computer user interfaces, video game characters, cities and neon lights, sci-fi, and good storytelling.

9. What do you hope people take away from connecting with your artwork?
I think ultimately I really want people to emotionally connect with my work.

10. How can people work with you? What’s the best way to learn more about your art?
I’m open for commissions and freelance starting in December! I have done a lot of album covers, music videos, character design, motion design, & 3D generalist work. People can find more about me on my website: https://www.nicoleruggiero.com or on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleruggiero or Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/_nicoleruggiero.

The best way to contact me is my email: nicole@nicoleruggiero.com

Interview with Hermés

I am so excited to share this wonderful interview I just had with Hermés who is a FEMME ICON and an incredibly talented artist, advocate, activist, and so much more. You can learn more about her and all of the amazing things she does by clicking here.

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E: Hi, can you share a little bit about yourself! How did you come to be the incredible artist, shapeshifter, sorceress, and monstress that you are? What is important to you at this moment? 

H: Thank you, Edgar! Including being an artist and all the things, I also claim and embrace being a trailblazer. As an Aries, being the first has been a recurring theme in my life. The first to be born in the states, the first born of 3 siblings, and the first to graduate from college. The first to move out from my hometown and move to the Bay Area. 

My familial roots come from México, El Salvador, and Spain. What is important to me at this moment is the process of deconditioning and divesting from patriarchal capitalist colonial programming, which includes reclaiming ancestral wisdom and practices.

E: I am obsessed with the art you’ve shared on the tezos blockchain on objkt and would love to hear more about it! 

H: Yes, how I would describe the art that I put out there is FFF – Fantastical, FEMME, and Fun!

E: What is your relationship like with art practice, performance, and digital art? Does it intersect with other mediums/practices and, if so, how? 

H: What comes to mind is the performativity of gender. As philosopher Simone de Beauvoir said: “one is not born, but rather becomes, a woman”. Performance can also be ritualistic, ceremonial, and ancestral. I think performance can be elevating and seductive.

I’m inspired by femme, feminist, and surreal visual art, which in college I took a women’s studies class called, feminist-art-power. My favorite visual artists that are  coming up for me are Leonora Carrington, Leonor Fini, and Remedios Varo. I love that these artists incorporate their mysticism into their art. For example, Leonara Carrington created her own version of the Major Arcana cards.

 To me, art, creativity, magical praxis are all interconnected. Art intersects with my astrology and tarot studies and practices. Overall, my art/work is devotional.

E: Do you have any advice you’d like to share with any baby witches or aspiring artists? 

H: Take risks and experiment! How I personally learn and grow is through trial and error. I’m also a big book nerd, so I love to read! 

E: What are your favorite forms of ritual or magic that you incorporate into your daily life? 

H: Good question! I like to keep it simple and cute. I pull tarot cards everyday. I give little offerings to my guides, such as offering incense,water, and leaving sweets, flowers, and adornments to my altar spaces. 

E: Are there any people, practices, or artworks you’d like to uplift and share? Why does it feel important to share them? 

H: I love my star poets and artists. With my own astrology practice and study, I’m tremendously indebted to astrology/tarot reader/educator/writer Diana Rose Harper and her mentorship, workshops, and readings she offers and her Patreon. I definitely recommend checking her work for those wanting to dive deeper and learn about astrology. Her wonderful workshops that I want to highlight include, Fundamental Needs, Required Resources: The Collaboration of the 1st and 2nd Houses and Fierce Compassion: Natal Astrology as Radical Self-Care.

E: This is a very intense time astrologically (or so I’ve been told by a few friends) do you have any astrological insights that you feel are important to share? 

H: Based on what’s happening, I think discernment is crucial and seeing beyond the veil. At this time, cultivating community care is crucial. Despite the challenges, we have to remind ourselves that we have agency and autonomy.  

In addition to Diana Rose Harper and her work, I love tuning in to astrologer Jessica Lanyadoo’s Ghost of a Podcast. Each week she goes over weekly transits. She also does episodes on what to expect for the year ahead. Aside from the astro data, she also provides valuable solid advice. For example in an episode she mentioned that an antidote to fear can be by taking action, and that taking small incremental steps can create a big impact. 

E: What’s something you are hoping to accomplish in the next year or two? 

H: Alongside the visual art that I create, I want to dedicate more time to my writing and grow my girl blog! 

E: Please let us know about anything exciting going on in your life right now! 

H: Ah there’s always so much going on! What comes to mind is how energizing living by the water can be and being immersed with the Bay Area magic and connecting with other Bay Area artists and witches! 

 E: How can folks connect with you and your work? 

H: I’m always open to collaboration! (I’m a libra rising.) You can find me on instagram (@hermes_hermit). I also have my linktree posted there. You can also check out my blog and podcast!

Behind the Scenes of Mz Neon's "So Far" Music Video

Click on this image above to watch Mz Neon - So Far (Official Music Video)

I am beyond excited to share my extraordinary experience as a back-up dancer in Mz Neon's revolutionary music video, "So Far." This is more than just a video – it's a powerful statement about the struggles and triumphs faced by the trans and gender-expansive community, particularly in the United States amidst the alarming surge of anti-trans rhetoric, discriminatory laws, and heartbreaking violence. Join me as I take you on a profound journey behind the scenes of this impactful creation.

**A Vision of Empowerment and Inclusion**

Directed by the brilliant duo Allen Henson and Mz Neon, "So Far" transcends the boundaries of music videos. It's a visual and auditory masterpiece that brings to light the challenges that the trans and gender expansive community navigates daily. Mz Neon's meticulous attention to art direction, set design, and wardrobe choices ensured that every element conveyed the message of resilience and empowerment.

**Strength in Unity**

The video boasts an impressive lineup of talents, each playing a vital role in conveying the song's powerful message. Alongside Mz Neon, the video features artists like Tricky Youth, Dagger Polyester, Clem Goldberg, Lilian Void, Love Bailey, Emily Lucid, Sasha Forests, Drew Arriola Sands, and numerous others who contribute to the video's diversity and depth. It was an absolute honor to share the stage with such a passionate and talented group of individuals.

**Voicing Resilience**

The lyrics of "So Far" are a poignant reflection of the challenges faced by the trans and gender expansive community. The song emphasizes the importance of fighting back, standing tall against adversity, and embracing our authentic selves. As a back-up dancer, I felt an incredibly deep connection to these themes, moving in harmony with a group of individuals unafraid to defy the bigotry and transphobia that is running rampant in this country and around the globe.

**Portraying the Journey**

The music video beautifully encapsulates the song's core message. Through choreography and cinematography, it vividly depicts the struggles and triumphs that the marginalized community experiences. Each scene tells a story of resilience and strength, offering a window into the indomitable human spirit.

**An Anthem of Empowerment**

"**So Far**" transcends its role as a song; it's a rallying cry, a call to arms, and a celebration of the diverse tapestry of identities. The chorus resonates with the idea that, even amid adversity, we stand strong and committed. The song's authenticity and raw emotion make it an anthem of empowerment for everyone within the trans and gender expansive community.

**A Heartfelt Thank You**

My gratitude knows no bounds as I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Mz Neon, Allen Henson, and the entire team for allowing me to be a part of this profound undertaking. I also want to acknowledge my fellow dancers, the talented artists, and the unsung heroes behind the scenes who worked tirelessly to breathe life into this video. Your passion and dedication shine brightly.

**A Call to Stand Strong**

"In the face of adversity, an act of defiance..." These words now hold even more weight for me after my involvement in "So Far." This video is a reminder that embracing our identities and fighting for justice is a revolutionary act in itself. Let's celebrate our diversity, challenge injustice, and continue pushing boundaries in the face of adversity.

Don't miss out on experiencing the impactful music video "**So Far**" available on all major streaming platforms here. It's a testament to resilience, a beacon of hope, and a catalyst for change.

Queer Conjure: An Interview with Jasper Joy, the Genderqueer Witch Redefining Magic and Empathy

A photo of Jasper Joy from their website Queer Conjure. Can be found here.

Hello Jasper, I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to chat with you today and delve deeper into your world and the work you do with Queer Conjure. Before we begin, would you kindly introduce yourself and share a few key aspects of your journey that have led you to where you are today? I'm eager to learn more about your unique path.

Yes, thank you! Your work has been quite the inspiration for me! I first learned about you through Ylva Mara a couple of years ago and I’ve been listening to your Mutant Musings on Youtube ever since, as well as some of your other videos and I just appreciate them so much.

My name is Jasper Joy, my pronouns are they/them, and I am a white genderqueer witch, tarot scholar, writer, and spiritual support specialist. I have a small professional practice called queerconjure.org where I teach tarot and witchcraft in a way that centers queer experiences, trans experiences, and neurodivergent experiences. Because those are the communities I belong to. As a child, I was raised by gay new-agers and sober lesbian Buddhists. I was an initiate and acolyte of a Wiccan temple for all of my twenties. I am always investigating ways to honor what my elders taught me in a way that makes more room for anti-racist work and resists all concepts of hierarchy.

Could you share a memorable experience or transformational moment you've had while supporting individuals through your offerings and practices at Queer Conjure?

I have a client that comes to me twice a year for tarot readings and she spends most of our time together telling me hilarious stories. I don’t say much except to reflect back to her what I’m hearing as the thread that connects those stories together. At first, I wasn’t sure what she was getting out of our sessions. Through working with her I learned a lesson that changed my practice completely. Tarot, as well as other forms of divination, is primarily a tool to facilitate active and empathetic listening. For me, it is more important to shine a light on what the client already knows and feels than to try to wow them with what I know (or think I know). I have to set my ego aside and become a reflective reader rather than a projective reader. What’s more, I work with marginalized communities that often have to work really hard just to be taken seriously. Putting their needs to be seen, heard, validated, and accepted ahead of everything else is a very powerful healing magic.

https://www.queerconjure.org/

How do you approach failure and what have you learned from your past setbacks?

I’m not sure that I believe in failure. Within every experience is an opportunity to learn and open. Failure suggests shame or blame, a perspective rather than a reality. My mama used to say “well, I just paid some tuition to the college of life” whenever something went horribly wrong. I mean, accidentally setting the lawn on fire wrong. Literally shooting oneself in the leg wrong. It was her way of saying that, even amidst the most fucked up chaos, there is something to learn and grow from. Setbacks are real and they can bring a lot of grief with them. They bring up a sense of loss. Most of my recent setbacks have come from chronic illness and therefore less work. It’s been a big cosmic neon sign that says “slow down or else”. The more I resist the more the universe puts obstacles in my way. So I finally had to let go and slow down. And it’s allowed me to open more.

Could you share some insights into the rituals or practices that are particularly meaningful or powerful to you?

Journaling will always be my true love. I have ADHD and a memory disorder, so writing things down is essential. But it’s more than just a way to recall events. Writing creates change, which is also what magic does. It’s a sacred tool that reorients the writer back to their true path. Back to their dreams. In the mornings, as often as possible, I light a birthday candle on my altar and journal for as long as the candle burns. Which is only a few minutes. But it’s not the length of time that’s important, it’s the attention that’s given to the ritual that makes it powerful.

Can you share any advice or guidance for others who may be exploring their own gender identity or considering incorporating witchcraft into their lives?

I highly suggest shedding all concepts of “feminine” energies and “masculine” energies when it comes to witchcraft. No matter how you identify. Just take them off and throw them in the bin! Replace them with a word that resonates more with who you are deep down (because that’s where divinity is). Maybe “cloudy” or “creature”, “dandy” or “mossy”. The social construct of a gender binary serves as a tool of societal oppression and does not add value to intuition or magic- in fact it degrades our connection to the universe. Aside from that, I will say what I wish my first teacher had said to me: be gentle with yourself. You’re going to make mistakes- sometimes huge mistakes- and your magic isn’t going to look like a tiktok video. (Though tiktok wasn’t a thing when I started!) No matter how long you practice magic, or how many gender workbooks you complete, you will always be at the beginning of figuring it out. Never at the end. So always treat yourself with the patience and care you would give to a child who is just learning to tie their shoelaces. 

Are there any specific deities, spirits, or elements that you feel particularly connected to, and if so, how do you honor and work with them?

I like to work with queer ancestors and ancestral chosen family. For example, if I have writer’s block, I’ll build an altar with pictures of Hans Christian Anderson and Leslie Feinberg. I have a couple personal deities that I “made up” because there just aren’t any I fully connect with. I’m an animist so I spend time intentionally and silently connecting with the spirits of “things” that might otherwise be undervalued- the overzealous multiflora rose behind my house or the tea kettle that I use every morning. The couch where my family crowds in for movie night. The broom I use to sweep the patio. All of these things contain the elements, contain divinity, and offer opportunities for reverence. I’m grateful for that.

Are there any misconceptions or stereotypes about being a genderqueer witch that you would like to address or debunk?

I protect my energy by not getting into Gender 101 discussions unless I’m being paid to do so. I’m genderqueer because queer is my gender, which means I can’t explain it in a succinct way. I don’t have to explain it to anyone’s satisfaction in order for it to be valid and valued. My genderqueerness is part of the mystery that fuels my witchcraft. To separate my queerness and witchcraft would be impossible for me at this point.

Click here to request to book a tarot reading with Jasper Joy of Queer Conjure.

What other hobbies or interests do you enjoy outside of witchcraft that bring you joy or inspiration?

I’m a very family-oriented person. Not in a nuclear-hetero way, but in a way that requires a deeply intentional cultivation of relationships. I love my friends so much my heart feels like a bird. I enjoy the hell out of them. I love spending time with my nesting partner and children. I build my life with them in mind. I’m a book nerd, for sure. I’m also just a geek for whatever is considered “weird”. I listen to a lot of podcasts and read a lot. I get very enthusiastic about new-to-me information and trying new-to-me things. 

Are there any books, resources, or mentors that have significantly influenced your journey?

Cassandra Snow was my first portal into queerness as an essential part of tarot and magic. Before them, I was juggling those pieces of myself as separate rather than embodying them as a whole. I’ll be forever grateful to them. I have a booklist here of forty-plus books that I hold in high regard. The In Search Of Tarot podcast and the Missing Witches podcast routinely blow my mind. My conversations with Ylva Mara are deeply influential as well. I highly recommend her book A Practical Guide For Witches.

What are some of your favorite magical tools or ingredients to work with, and why?

Invasive plants! Anything that’s considered a nuisance but holds powerful medicine within. Their tenacity feels inherently queer to me. I have a small cauldron that I ritually work with several times a month that often holds plant friends and scraps of paper with scribbled wishes or thanks written on them. The cauldron is sacred for many reasons, but to be honest I love it because it’s iconic. Tarot cards are an obvious answer for me, because that’s what most of my work revolves around. For me, tarot is just as enigmatic as queerness and offers millions of lifetimes worth of lessons.

In what ways do you use platforms like Instagram and TikTok to amplify your message and connect with a broader audience? How has social media impacted your spiritual practice and community-building efforts? Any messages you feel called to share around social media? 

When I began my witchy studies, there was this thing called Witchvox. It was an online social network for witches and pagans before social media was even a thing. It’s where I found my first teacher. My first ritual, my first spell. It’s how I got my start. These days, my witch-community is a quilt of queers I stumbled upon thanks to some algorithm on Instagram and sometimes dating apps. I am grateful for that. I don’t know if it’s “amplified my message” exactly. I have a business partner that makes beautiful posts that keep us in the feed. I try not to think about the fact that I have an audience, though. I’m just doing my little turn on the catwalk, checking in with my loves, and looking at reels of cute animals. If I start paying attention to likes or followers or traffic reports, then social media begins to feed on my sense of self-worth. I think it’s important to hold boundaries that prevent that. 

What are some ways that folks can connect with you and do you have any exciting things coming up you’d like to share? 

All of my work can be found at queerconjure.org and I love getting emails from new folks. I also have a Patreon and a podcast, both called Queer Conjure. Right now my partner and I are creating the second issue of our downloadable tarot workbook and I’m very excited to share that once it feels complete.

Please feel free to share any additional insights or stories or anything else you feel is important to share with our readers. 

Thank you so much for these lovely questions! It was a wonderfully creative and introspective experience to answer them!

Click the image above to listen to the Mutating with Edgar episode on the Queer Conjure Podcast

As an added bonus, I recently had the privilege of being a guest on the Queer Conjure Podcast where we delve into the intersections of queerness and spirituality.