Community and Memory: Juujuumama’s Latest Drop on Rarible

Juujuumama has been creating NFTs since 2021, and has been a hardcore advocate for new artists, particularly those working in Africa. As well as creating some of the most diverse and expressive artworks around, she also runs numerous projects aimed at spotlighting and supporting new creators. ‘We Gather’ is her latest piece, and is minting now on Rarible.com for 0.0009 ETH (about $2.19). This week, we sat down to discuss her art practice, her inspirations, and the ideas behind ‘We Gather’.

Tell us a little bit about your journey into NFTs. When did you first start, and what is it that you love about the web3 art space?

Juujuumama: I began my journey into NFTs in 2021, after a lifetime of exploring various mediums – from painting and sculpture to collage and AI.

Blockchain technology instantly fascinated me because it offers artists like myself a way to immortalize our work while also giving us full control over its reach and impact.

The decentralized nature of web3 brings creators and collectors together in a direct, unfiltered way. I love that it’s a space built on innovation and inclusivity, where we’re constantly redefining what art can be.

Your work is an amazing mix of styles, from runway-style photographs to marble friezes, modern collage and more…There is such diversity, but it still feels like one artist. What do you think it is that ties all of your work together?

Juujuumama: At the core of my work is a deep connection to identity, storytelling, and heritage. Whether I’m creating a modern digital piece or a more traditional collage, I aim to weave in themes of self-discovery, heritage, and the magic within our everyday experiences. I believe that art has the power to bridge tradition and modernity, so every piece is my own way of blending past and present. It’s this commitment to honoring my roots and representing the African diaspora that connects my diverse styles into one cohesive voice.

Can you tell us about some artists you admire?

Juujuumama: I admire artists like Owadasa Roland and Mariuscarl Ene for their fearless representation of African identity and culture. They’ve both managed to fuse classical techniques with themes of contemporary Black experience in ways that feel timeless. 

In the web3 and AI space, artists like Wildy Martinez inspire me for how she’s paving new ways of creating while staying true to her unique visions. These artists remind me to push my work to new levels while staying rooted in my own identity.

‘We Gather’ is such a warm, welcoming painting. What inspired you to create it?

Juujuumama: “We Gather” was born from a love for collective memory and the unique beauty of community.

Growing up, I was surrounded by the warmth and wisdom of community gatherings, where every story and laugh contributes to something larger than ourselves.

This piece is a celebration of that unity, a visual reminder of how powerful it is when people come together to share, remember, and create memories. It’s a tribute to the simple yet profound act of gathering.

You have an AI art model that is open for anyone to use… Is this the model you use to create all of your work? How did you create this model and what makes it uniquely yours?

Juujuumama: Yes, my Titles models (PAINTED and JuuJuuCollage) are a significant part of my creative process. I developed them using my personal aesthetic - It’s like having a virtual collaborator that holds the essence of my style. By sharing it, I hope to inspire others to explore themes of heritage and identity in their work. While I use it frequently, I continue to create traditional art by hand and also use widely known tools like Midjourney.

Outside of your art practice, you have many projects on the go, focused around supporting developing artists. Tell us more about Ìtàn, Naija Onchain, and AAWH.

Juujuumama: Through Ìtàn, I aim to bring West African artists into the global spotlight by curating digital exhibitions that celebrate their work and cultural narratives. 

Naija Onchain is an extension of this mission, bringing Nigerian artists onto the blockchain and introducing them to the vast opportunities in web3. 

AAWH (All Are Welcome Here) serves as a resource hub for emerging artists, offering guidance and community. Together, these projects are about creating access, visibility, and sustainability for underrepresented voices in the digital art space.

Finally, you work a lot with emerging artists…what advice would you give to someone who is new to NFTs and web3?

Juujuumama: For those just starting, I’d say take your time to learn and don’t be afraid to experiment. The web3 space is constantly evolving, so there’s room to make your mark.

Find your voice and stay authentic in your work – the right collectors and supporters will connect with your authenticity. Also, invest time in building connections.

Collaboration and community are powerful here, and they can open doors you never imagined.