Interview

Amrit Pal Singh: The 3D NFT Toy Maker

I first came across Amrit Pal Singh’s work when Accelerate Art announced their inaugural class of artists. His work immediately stood out. He has been producing almost lego-like characters that pay homage to well known artists, astronauts, and fantasy characters.

Not only is he crafting fun and vivid 3D designs but he has created tools for designers to replicate these characters. I could envision them appearing on corporate websites as an alternative to the all too common abstract illustrated vector characters.

Whatever Amrit is doing it appears to be working. His Daft Punk toy figures netted a whopping 15ETH which at the time was worth nearly $25,000. The success isn’t completely surprising as he has developed quite the following over the years with his work on Behance.

He also managed to book a gig with Gowalla to help design 3D badges for their upcoming relaunch. For those unaware of the location-based app, it was super popular in 2008 after going viral at SXSW. It was also competitive with Foursquare but did not survive. It’s now on the verge of a full relaunch.

Needless to say, I had to speak with Amrit to learn more about his designs and his experience in the world of NFTs.

What was your first entry into art?

For most of my career I saw myself as designer, it’s because of NFTs I could see what I do as Art. I made illustrations ranging from various styles vector to pixel art till I fell in love with 3D.

How has your style evolved over time and how would you describe your style today?

I found my style quite recently in 2020 while in quarantline. Easiest way to describe mt style would be toylike and whimsical.

Prior to selling your NFTs was your art your full-time job?

Prior to NFTs, I’ve had the pleasure of working with clients around the globe as a 3D illustrator and product designer. I also designed my own line of products including mobile apps, picture books, card games, and custom apparel.

Were you previously involved in the cryptocurrency space? If so, how?

Nope, NFTs warmed me up to crypto and now I am very much involved in the space.

Toy Faces

Toy Faces 3D

What prompted you to begin selling NFTs?

Toy Faces started as a design asset, then I started doing custom Toy Faces to expand its reach. NFTs is the third step of its evolution intersecting with art and collectibles. I love how convenient it is to sell digital goods and that is what attracted me to NFTs.

How are your sales going so far?

Quite good, still trying to figure out how to sell but I am about to reach 50 ETH milestone with my first batch of Toy Faces and I am over the moon because of that. The community has shown a lot of love and support.

Have NFTs changed your plans for the future? If so, how?

Yes, I am fascinated by the history of portraiture, portraits have always been more than just a record. It represents so much more and I am keen on pushing the boundaries of what I can do with Toy Face NFTs. I plan to do a lot of collaborations and try different models of selling, I am very excited about playing around and learning on the way.

What do you think would improve your overall experience with NFTs?

Now I am okay with it but eventually the onboarding had some friction. I would love to see platforms with better UX and ease of selling.

Daft Punk Toys

Do you have any exciting upcoming NFT projects? If so, any that you care to share?

Absolutely, I have a featured drop with the $MEME project. Then I have my first Crypto Voxel Gallery Art Show and I will be dropping my 3D Room Project Genesis on SuperRare.

What’s the best way for people to check out your work online?

They can find me through my website.

Anything else that you care to share?

I love the NFT community, it might seem hyped from the outside but I have never been part of something so exciting online. I believe in a bright future for tech and artists.