POW with Kenneth Surillo

Let’s welcome another prominent multi-talented contributor to Web3, Kenneth Surillo A.K.A Kenzero / Kenzeroart.

He is a self-taught artist, photographer, and film maker, a 3-in-1 package highlighting the significant pieces in the space.

What were you doing before Web3?

I’m Kenneth Surillo A.K.A Kenzero / Kenzeroart, a freelance multi-talented artist as they say. I am also a photographer, and filmmaker. 

I was once a student who followed the typical path of going to school and looking for a job after graduation. I’ve always had a passion for art and initially wanted to become a landscape architect, but life had other plans for me.

So, I ended up studying Computer Science in college (University of Caloocan City), due to practical reasons like the high cost of the architecture program, the distance of the school, and my low entrance exam score.

I turned a tough situation into a positive by becoming a student of online resources like Google, Youtube, and Facebook groups. Then, I learned graphic design through online contests and got my first experience with freelancing, including working with clients who can be difficult.

Despite the challenges, my persistence paid off when I was able to buy my first DSLR camera with my freelance income after graduation. This allowed me to combine my passion for design and photography, and with the help of various online communities, I was able to secure more clients.

How did you get into Web3?

Before I discovered the world of Web3, I was an event filmmaker, capturing special moments from weddings, debuts, birthday celebrations, and other events.

But with the pandemic hitting the industry hard, I decided to try my hand at illustration and joined an online kids’ tutorial program as a part-time illustrator.

I used my self-taught graphic illustration skills to create characters and illustrations that the tutors used in their online books.

Although the event industry is slowly recovering, I struggled to find my footing there again. Instead, I found my true calling in Web3 and am now excited to explore the endless possibilities and opportunities it has to offer.

But my passion for film and photography still burns bright, and I’m eager to continue feeding my creativity through projects that combine my love for both.

What was your first crypto or NFT project?

I heard about the exciting opportunities in Axie Infinity, where you can earn by playing but I had my initial doubts about it so I decided to try another investment which is a non Web3 one, but unfortunately, I was scammed and 2022 became my toughest year.

However, a friend introduced me to the world of NFT art on the Paras market under Near Protocol, and I decided to give it a shot by minting my art there. To my delight, I sold some of my pieces and regained my confidence that things were looking up.

Along my journey, I stumbled upon the supportive and wonderful CryptoArtPH community and I’ve been enjoying my experience with them ever since!

How would you explain what you do to someone outside of Web3?

My first crypto experience was all P2E games and I don’t have the luck to keep my profit with all of it because of greediness. I had so many lessons that I actually learned.

I have since discovered my true passion in the Web3 community – creating art! This led me to create my own project, Near Doodle, which features unique and adorable collectibles built on the Near Protocol.

I have been thrilled to join forces with other talented artists and groups, such as the Cryptopop Art Guild founded by sir Luis Buenaventura II, Near Gang Couture, CryptoartPH, and now co-founded XOVOX Labs as Chief Creative Officer with my stick together man El Malamaya the CEO of XOVOX Labs.

Which creator or thought leader do you enjoy learning from?

Luis Buenaventura II, Kokoo Crypto, El Malamaya, Jopet Arias and Ismael Jerusalem

I’ve learned a lot from all the people I’ve met in the Web3 scene, mentioning everyone might take too long but I know that they know that I enjoy learning with them!

What is the biggest highlight of your career so far?

One of the best moments in my Web3 journey was when I got the chance to showcase my art at the Philippine Web3 Festival event with the support of CryptoArtPH and Galeria Paloma.

It was a true honor to display my work in Meatspace Web3 Art Gallery and see people appreciate my creations. The excitement of having people appreciate my art during events is simply indescribable!

What tech or crypto trend are you watching this year?

I really want to learn how AI works in film and motion graphics.

What advice would you give someone starting out in Web3?

Being your own boss and managing your own time might sound like a dream come true, but it also requires hard work and determination. Unlike traditional jobs, you won’t get paid unless you put in the effort to get the work done.

But despite the challenges, the experience of meeting new people, learning from their stories, and all the lessons I’ve learned so far have made the journey worth it. For anyone who wants to follow in my footsteps, I advise you to keep your feet on the ground, don’t just read and watch tutorials, actually apply what you learn, and be open to criticism.

Lastly, never think of yourself as a finished product, always strive to improve and learn more.

If you could do a TEDtalk on any topic, what would it be?

Creating Your Own Artistic Career.

What is the one thing you would bring if you were stuck on a deserted Island?

My Ipad Pro + Apple Pencil + Solar power bank haha!

POW stands for “Proof of Work.” It is a new feature article series in The Mega Maxi to highlight the savviest builders in the Web3 space.