Interview with Zoph.zie

Above: Portrait of artist Zoph.zie whose work is featured in the 'Art Seedbomb' public art project exhibition

In Art Seedbomb, a public art exhibition by The Alchemical Art, Manchester-based digital artist Zoph.zie unveils Don’t Be Afraid, a surreal exploration of the natural and the ethereal. By transforming photographs of nature into psychedelic dreamscapes, her work invites viewers into a world where angels and symbolic imagery emerge in moments of reflection and need.

In this interview Zoph.zie shares how her deep connection to the natural world shapes her art and how she merges serene aesthetics with otherworldly imagination.

Interview

Your work often merges the natural world with abstract, psychedelic landscapes. Could you tell us more about how 'Don't Be Afraid' explores the symbolic imagery of angels and how this ties into the themes of nature and protection?

In Don’t Be Afraid, I explore the symbolic power of angels as figures of hope and protection, intertwining this with the idea that solace can be directly accessed through nature. A beautiful sky can be awe-inspiring, bringing a profound sense of comfort while evoking feelings of reverence and connection to something greater than ourselves.

To embody this concept, I worked with photographs of clouds that I captured on a day when they resembled wings. The intricate details of the clouds became the foundation for my abstract interpretation of an angel. By blending the organic forms of nature with angelic symbolism, I aimed to blur the boundary between the mythical and the natural, conveying a message about the protective and nurturing forces that coexist with us.

In creating a surreal experience for the viewer, you mention that your work encourages deeper connection with nature. What role does this connection play in your own life, and how does it shape the themes in your art?

Nature became a place of respite for me during a difficult time. Spending time outdoors allowed me to meditate and connect with unconditional love, offering a space where I could experience my emotions without judgment. This connection brought healing and a renewed sense of faith, and the realization that we are part of nature, not separate from it, became central to my personal journey.

In my art, I often channel these experiences directly. Nature’s role in my life shapes my work as a reflection of healing and spiritual growth. By blending surreal elements with natural themes, I aim to create a dreamlike experience that invites viewers to reconnect with nature, especially in this digital age, and to remember the nurturing, protective forces that awaken all our senses.

You’ve created several works with nature-inspired themes. How does the process differ between works when they evoke different aspects of nature, such as tranquility, mystery, or spirituality?

My process involves creating a mood for myself to channel the specific feeling I'm aiming for. I don't always know exactly what that mood is at first—it often reveals itself through experimentation with collage, as shapes and an atmosphere gradually manifest in the piece. Music plays a big role in setting the tone, helping me tap into an intuitive, almost otherworldly vision.

My process involves creating a mood for myself to channel the specific feeling I'm aiming for. I don't always know exactly what that mood is at first—it often reveals itself through experimentation with collage, as shapes and an atmosphere gradually manifest in the piece. Music and animation play a big role in setting the tone, helping me tap into an intuitive, almost otherworldly vision.

Art Seedbomb challenges traditional gallery settings by bringing art into public spaces. How do you feel your artwork will interact with the urban environment, and what effect do you hope it will have on viewers who encounter it unexpectedly?

Don’t Be Afraid inherently merges the natural and digital worlds, creating a beautiful contrast that I believe will engage the urban environment in a unique way. I hope my artwork will be approached with curiosity and offer viewers a moment to reflect. By presenting unexpected elements in a familiar setting, I aim to inspire people to look closely at the details of their surroundings and remain present in the moment. I’d like viewers to allow the blend of natural and digital elements to spark new perspectives on their environment.

As you continue to explore new projects, are there other themes or symbols you are eager to delve into in future works?

I look forward to delving into themes of transmutation, ethereal beings, and bodies of light. I also wish to investigate the concept of duality, including its darker aspects, and I’m interested in dream interpretation and the narratives found in mythology.

Above: A digital billboard design from Art Seedbomb, a curated public art project exhibition aimed at reclaiming urban spaces through nature-inspired art, featuring "Don't Be Afraid" and "Spring Gaze" by Zoph.zie

Want to learn more about the artist & their art? Want to purchase the artworks?

Contact the artist’s directly using the details below:
Instagram:
@zoph.zie

Melbourne Central

Flinders Street Station

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