Artist Interview: Blakelee Pieroni

Blakelee Pieroni addresses social issues and human progress through her art – creating digital art, immersive media works, and large-scale oil paintings, the artist prompts viewers to question their identity in relation to physicality.

Recognized for her choreographies, paintings, and digital performance art, her work has been featured in publications like Time Out, Up Mag, and SuperChief, among others. Pieroni performed in Art Basel Miami, and is currently a residency artist at The Canvas 3.0 with her concept art collectible project, Meta Betties.

We asked Blakelee about her art, creative process, and inspirations.

*Meta Betties: Concept Art Collectibles by Blakelee Pieroni*

Can you tell us about your background as a digital artist? How did you get started in this field?

My journey as a digital artist began with a foundation built on curiosity. While studying as a Dance Media Major in college, I found a perfect union between my passion for movement and my affinity for digital tools. My background in dance honed my ability to fill spaces creatively, both on stage and behind the scenes. Over the past decade, I've cultivated a symbiotic relationship between movement and technology, recognizing that while movement may be fleeting, technology offers stability and endurance. For me, they are not separate entities but rather complementary forces that belong together, guiding my artistic expression in the web 3 space.

What inspires your art? Are there any particular themes or subjects that you enjoy exploring through your artwork?

My art is inspired by feminist approaches to reprogramming language and relationships through movement and technology. I challenge family dynamics and societal stigmas on women. I am the first woman in my lineage to have lived independently, obtain a college degree, and have career in the arts. I take pride in these achievements. Given that many women today are likely the first in their families to accomplish these milestones and speak out against oppression and inequality, I feel a duty to uplift women's voices.

In the digital space, I personally confront insecurities and fears, but also find strength in solidarity with other women. My work aims to redefine gender norms and eliminate objectification, reflecting my passion for postmodern feminism and creating a space where physicality and women are not correlated.

“My pieces explore the integration of movement and technology, offering solutions for women in the ongoing fight for equality.”

What is an event which you consider a milestone in your digital art career?

Meta Betties is my concept art collectible. I've showcased this collection at galleries such as ChaShaMa and Bright Moments, even performing at Art Basel. A pivotal moment in my digital art journey occurred when "Meta Betties" secured a residency at The Canvas 3.0 in the Oculus World Trade Center this year. As the artist in residence, witnessing my vision come to life is surreal, and I'm grateful every day for the opportunity to live my dream. This entire year is dedicated to building my project and creating art tirelessly.

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Tell us about Meta Betties – how did the project come to be, and what makes it special to you?

Meta Betties emerged from my desire to explore performance art on the blockchain. In a landscape that was dominated by PFPs, I saw an opportunity to blend that aesthetic with my style of art using meaningful commentary and hypersexual visuals. It's not just about art; it's a social experiment, a running commentary on our world. Inspired by 1940s war time pin-up girls, Meta Betties morph into modern evangelists, highlighting social issues through symbolism and satire. She is provocative. She is chaotic. Each Bettie is minted on Ethereum and captures a moment in our social evolution. Collectors engage, trade, and act on these issues, driving cultural progress. Meta Betties challenges stereotypes, proving you can be both erotic and activist, reshaping perceptions along the way. The best part is I get to watch and take note of it all both digital and IRL and that alone keeps me just angry enough to keep going.

Can you tell us about your experience of NFT.NYC 2024?

During NFT NYC 24, Meta Betties hosted several events, demonstrating our unique blend of art, technology, and social activism. They began with "NOT NFT NYC" alongside All Of Us Radio, followed by a live stream metaverse party with DCL Babydolls, and showcased Archiv3 Magazine's second drop. The unveiling of our fashion tech line at the Meta Betties Gallery was a highlight, emphasizing the use of art and Web3 for social change. Additionally, we introduced Act 2 Earn engagement and rewards utility, encouraging participation in social justice initiatives. Performance art pieces throughout the day added an interactive element, making it a memorable day for Meta Betties at NFT NYC 24.

“Embracing a postnatural methodology, I challenge human relationships, objectifying color and concept to propel the audience into a posthuman mindset. This approach fosters fluidity and balance, transcending the dichotomy of object and subject, creating a vessel within the energies among us.”

Are there any artists or creative influences that have had a significant impact on your work? How have they shaped your artistic style or approach?

Following and falling love with the work of women artists makes me feel most alive! Miriam Beerman, Kara Walker, Jenny Saville, and Tracey Emin are the artists I seek solace in. Lana Del Rey's music lives in my headphones. Within the web 3 space, figures like OONA, Pussy Riot, Operator___, Leah Shrager, Sasha Stiles, Margaret Murphy, and countless others provide me with inspiration and drive. Dona Harraway, and Karen Barrad deeply influence my work. Katherine Dunham and Martha Graham are Gods. All Hail Marina Ambromovic.

What is a profound childhood memory?

At the age of 8, my mother shared with me that the man I referred to as my father was not my biological father. However, I had already been aware of this fact. The impact of this revelation was that I learned that I could trust my own judgment and instincts to be true. I have a strong sense for what is the truth. Additionally, it fostered a heightened awareness of familial dynamics and a precocious understanding of different perspectives from an early stage in my life.

What else fills your time when you’re not creating art?

I love spending some alone time in my garden working on my vines. Going for a walk is something that truly makes me happy. I'm pretty careful about who I let into my inner circle, but I feel at ease when I'm with my husband, being with him in silence is a favorite. I'm an advocate for stepmothers' rights and I work hard as an activist to make sure that the Meta Betties Action Center is seen as a trustworthy and reliable source.