Hello, dear Celestial! I’m absolutely thrilled to be here with you today. Your incredible work has touched so many hearts, including mine, and your presence in Second Life is truly a treasure. We can’t wait to dive deeper and discover the amazing person behind the breathtaking art!
To kick things off, I’d really like to get to know you better and hear about your journey that brought you to where you are today in Second Life.
Violet: Celestial Demon – a name that might sound a bit ominous at first, but anyone who knows you sees a completely different side. Can you share the story behind picking “Celestial Demon” as your Second Life name? What does it mean to you?
Celestial: I came up with this name when I was just 13, and I’ve carried it with me ever since. It represents desire and the inner contradictions we all have, embodying both light and dark. While the past can be tough—like how a snake can be venomous or a demon is often seen as evil—what truly matters is not just the surface. We can always strive to be something better on the inside.
Violet: Wow, Celestial, that’s really deep! I appreciate you opening up and sharing such a personal insight right off the bat. It really highlights the richness we see in your art and who you are as a person. Thanks for setting such a reflective tone for our chat!
Violet: How did your journey into Second Life begin, and what drew you to virtual photography within this world?
Celestial: About 14 years ago, I stumbled upon this virtual world that reminded me of an old friend. I was instantly captivated and took my time exploring this place, enjoying the chance to meet people from all corners of the globe. To be honest, I never imagined I would dive so deeply into the world of photography; it still feels like a new adventure waiting to be discovered.
Violet: What a beautiful origin story! It’s amazing how a virtual space can foster such genuine connections. Simply wonderful! 🙂
Celestial: I can still recall when a friend introduced me to Flickr. Before that, I had never even thought about taking photos! Once I saw the incredible things you could create with just a simple click, I was hooked and began exploring more and more places.
I started to uncover the galleries here, experiencing the visions and emotions of others through their photography.
Violet: It’s amazing how something as simple as a “weak click” can lead to such profound creations and explorations.
Celestial: Gradually, I began to learn more about the viewer and its settings, as well as the basics of lighting and angles—things that were completely foreign to me before. It was a slow process, but I learned bit by bit.
Violet: That’s wonderful! Would you say you’ve found a passion in expressing yourself through photography? 🙂
Celestial: Absolutely! Just like I’ve always had a love for writing, I see photography as a form of visual storytelling captured in a fleeting moment. It’s a different kind of expression than poetry, but it holds the same magic for me. You can convey so much without uttering a single word in photography.
Violet: So beautifully said, my friend! “Visual writing engraved in the gaze” is such a poetic way to describe photography. It makes perfect sense that someone who loves writing would be drawn to photography as another storytelling medium.
Beyond the lens, you’re recognized as a truly kind and caring friend. How do you think your personal character connects with, or maybe even shapes, the art you create?
Celestial: Honestly, I’m not quite sure, but I believe that the way I set up a scene or background for a photo reflects the essence of the image we present, almost like a gateway into our minds, guiding the viewer along the path of the message we subconsciously want to convey through photography.
Violet: Exactly! I think your kindness, wisdom, and nurturing spirit really blend into the photographs you take:)
Celestial: Always so incredibly kind..
Violet: Many artists see their avatar as an extension of their artistic identity. Your avatar is quite captivating, a mix of demon and celestial. How does your avatar embody your artistic vision or inner world?
Celestial: I really appreciate your kind words! I’ve always been fascinated by the endless possibilities of creating different facets of avatars. Gradually, I started experimenting with various outfits based on the occasion or the vibe I wanted to capture in my photos. Just like the human side of me emerged, so did the demon side. I can honestly say that photography has helped me be reborn in this way, pushing me into new poses and desires that I never would have explored otherwise.
Violet: That’s such a beautiful journey, Celestial. It seems like your avatar is more than just a representation; it’s a living, breathing part of your creative journey and personal development.
Celestial: Especially with the graphic evolution in Second Life, I’ve also changed over time, but I hold a deep symbolic connection to my avatar as an extension of myself.
Violet: You know, Celestial, as we dive into your incredible creative process and the depth of your artistry, I can’t help but think about the stark contrast between what you do as an SL photographer and the rise of AI-generated art.
For someone like you, being an SL photographer is so much more than just hitting a ‘click’ or having top-notch Photoshop skills. Your creative journey starts way before that – it involves a lot of thought and effort in crafting your avatar’s unique identity, carefully selecting skins, makeup, attachments, outfits, poses and accessories. Then there’s the artful manipulation of ambient light, shadows, and the entire scene within Second Life to evoke that specific emotion or tell a story. It’s a rich, multi-layered artistic process that requires immense vision, patience, and technical know-how in the virtual realm.
On the flip side, while AI-generated art can produce some stunning visuals, it works on a completely different principle. An artist provides text descriptions or other images, and the sophisticated program generates the artwork independently. The artist isn’t hands-on in the same way, creating the image pixel by pixel, object by object, light by light.
For me, this difference is significant, and it’s why I have such deep respect for the work of SL photographers like you.
Celestial: Thank you my friend.
Violet: You are very welcome! Now, let’s pivot a bit and dive into your amazing artistic vision and the unique process that brings your captivating creations to life.
Your photography often showcases striking black and white compositions, along with very bright scenes that have subtle darker elements. What is it about this particular aesthetic that captivates you, and what emotions or ideas do you hope to express through this bold contrast?
Celestial: I’m not entirely sure. If we think of ourselves as a pen when we “draw” our vision through photography, I guess this is my ink. I’ve always used it, regardless of how I express myself. It feels like it’s just part of who I am. I can’t really explain it technically, but just like everyone has their own way of expressing themselves with words, I believe the same applies to how we convey our unique vision.
Violet: That’s such a lovely analogy, Celestial – viewing your chosen aesthetic as your “ink” when you’re “drawing” with light. You do realize how unique you are, right?
Celestial: So you’re flattering me?
Violet: No, I mean I am genuinely touched by your personality and your art – smiles at Celestial.
You also create stunning collages, where groups of 4-8 photos come together to form a cohesive, sequential piece. Can you share your creative process behind these collages? How do you envision the sequence and narrative?
Celestial: I usually let the music take me away, riding that wave of inspiration. The message just unfolds naturally. To be honest, I’ve never really aimed for everyone to understand me. Each person has their own perspective shaped by their past and choices. Everyone seeks something that resonates with who they are right now, even on a deeper level. Just as I see reflections of myself in my photos because of the way I choose to present them, someone else might find bits of themselves in it too. I’ve always created for my own sake.
Violet: That’s such a beautiful and organic approach, Celestial.
Some of your works are large-scale, showcasing either minimalistic or impressively detailed avatars or wings. What’s the thought process behind this contrast of vastness and fine detail?
Celestial: I’ve always been drawn to this style; it really captures the viewer’s attention and allows them to immerse themselves completely. The actual size of the space doesn’t matter when it comes to conveying a message. I’ve always appreciated this format—it’s like an open book waiting to share its story, much like how we imagine a tale just by looking at its cover.
Violet: Wow yes! Viewing your large-scale pieces as “an open book with something to tell inside” adds a whole new layer of meaning. It’s amazing how that format pulls the viewer in, directing their full attention to the message you’re sharing, no matter how big the space is.
From the initial idea to the final shot, can you walk us through your usual process for capturing a photograph? Do you meticulously plan everything out, or do you leave space for spontaneous creativity?
Celestial: I usually don’t have a clear vision of what I want to capture before I begin. I prefer to let my thoughts guide me, much like when we feel an urge to finally express something we’ve kept bottled up inside for so long.
Violet: That’s so genuine and heartfelt, Celestial. It seems like your creative journey is a natural outpouring of your inner self, almost like a vital release of thoughts and feelings that need to come out.
Celestial: I guess it feels spontaneous to me, but I believe my soul has been yearning for this expression for quite a while.
Violet: What a lovely insight! It might seem spontaneous in the moment, but thinking of it as your soul having “waited for it” adds a beautiful depth to it. It suggests that these expressions aren’t just random bursts of creativity; they’re deeply rooted and finally finding their way out.
Your art, while often clear and at first glance a bit cold because of the backgrounds, is never devoid of emotion. How do you manage to weave your unique emotional depth into your seemingly minimalist or stark pieces?
Celestial: This is something you can catch a glimpse of; from my perspective, I see it differently because I know the steps I took to capture that specific shot. So, I can’t give you a straightforward answer; I believe it comes from a natural place.
Violet: Right! What viewers see on the surface, you’ve experienced deeply in its creation. It beautifully illustrates the contrast between making art and experiencing it, emotions also lie in the eyes of the beholder.
Celestial: Yes my friend.
Violet: Your insights into your creative flow and how you bring your visuals to life are truly fascinating, Celestial. For this next part, I’d love to explore what truly inspires you, the profound connections you make through your art, and how your beautiful poetry intertwines with your visual creations.
Where do you find your main sources of inspiration for your photography? Are there specific experiences, emotions, or observations, both in and out of Second Life, that spark your creativity?
Celestial: I don’t often find inspiration here in SL; sometimes I just have to let go of the search. But in the beginning, looking for poses and letting my imagination run wild really helped me a lot.
Violet: That’s really interesting, Celestial. So, it seems like it’s not just the virtual world that ignites your creativity, but more of an internal flow that you allow yourself to follow.
Are there any real-life artists – photographers, painters, sculptors – whose work deeply inspires you or gives “wings to your soul,” as you often express?
Celestial: Honestly, not really. But I’m always amazed by the countless ways art can evoke different feelings, even just by looking at a statue that seems so still yet powerful.
Violet: That’s such a genuine and thoughtful response, Celestial! It really highlights your appreciation for the emotional depth and essence of creation.
You often blend your art with the lyrics you love to write, as showcased in your “Ritrosia” exhibition. How do these two forms of expression, visual and poetic, enhance each other in your creative journey?
Celestial: Honestly, outside of this space, I don’t take any photos; everything I create comes from within. Here, I’m trying to bring those two elements together.
I create words with photography as my foundation. Poetry and photography can exist independently; they don’t necessarily need each other. They’re two distinct forms that, despite their differences, aim to guide us toward the same goal: to convey something meaningful.
Violet: I find it really intriguing how you let the visual side of photography fuel your writing. It beautifully highlights the special bond between these two forms of expression.
Violet: Do you need a quick break, my friend?
Celestial: No, my dear, I’m fine! But if you want, I can definitely wait.
Violet: No, no! I just want you to feel at ease. I’m ready to pause whenever you need.
he interview is long and detailed, so I don’t want to overwhelm you. I just want you to be fully present with me.
Celestial: This is a nice way to get the brain going in the morning! 🙂
Violet: Alright, dear soul, let’s move on to the second part of the interview. I’d love to learn more about your artistic vision and process.
Celestial: Yes, dear, I’m ready!
Violet: Your poem “Ritrosia” beautifully captures the essence of “seeing the world in its contrasts, in steadfast white and devastating black.” Is this a fundamental philosophy that shapes both your art and your life?
Celestial: It’s a narrative that aims to illustrate our journey from the darkest nights to the brightest days, where tough times lead us to moments of self-care. Just like flowers and thorns, we often have to choose what to embrace. What seems wrong can sometimes be right in its own way. I believe it’s essential to savor both the pain and the joy, to truly appreciate what we have in the here and now.
Violet: That’s such a beautiful and profound philosophy, Celestial. It’s evident that “Ritrosia” is more than just a collection of art and poetry; it’s a rich narrative about life’s journey through contrasts.
In another lyric, you mention “hope always whispers in the direst adversity.” How much of your art serves as a reflection of inner struggles or triumphs, and how much is meant to inspire hope in others?
Celestial: For me, it’s always been a powerful outlet, like a scream carried by the wind. It’s not necessarily about being heard; it’s more about finding comfort in it. That’s always been enough for me. But knowing that others can find themselves in those visual screams or still thoughts captured in a photograph really brings a smile to my face.
Violet: It’s really touching to hear how your art acts as a crucial outlet for you—a “scream in the wind” that ultimately brings you peace. That deep, personal connection to your work is what makes it so genuine and impactful for others, even if that’s not its main goal for you.
The imagery of “wings” comes up frequently, both in your avatar and perhaps as a metaphor in your quest for inspiration. What do wings mean to you?
Celestial: To me, wings are a powerful symbol. They don’t just represent the ability to soar away from everything, but rather embody a sense of freedom. It’s a reminder that, no matter our circumstances, we all have the power to act freely, even when we might feel pressured otherwise.
Violet: That’s such a beautiful and deep take on wings, Celestial. It’s not merely about flying; it’s about that essential inner “fund of freedom” and the strength to make choices, even when faced with challenges. It really highlights a profound resilience and belief in personal autonomy, which aligns perfectly with your art… I absolutely love that!
Beyond photography and poetry, are there other forms of art or expression that resonate with you on a deeper level?
Celestial: I really enjoy chatting about anything and everything, driven by my curiosity. This has been especially rewarding as I get to meet people from various religions and cultures, all from behind a screen. However, I sometimes find this clashes with my more solitary side.
Violet: I can totally relate to that, Celestial. It makes perfect sense that your desire for connection can sometimes align with, and at other times conflict with, your need for solitude. It really shows how thoughtful and reflective you are.
You’re currently a guest artist at Souland Gallery, and we’re absolutely delighted to have your permanent exhibition there. How has this experience been for you?
Celestial: I’m truly grateful for the invitation and the chance you’ve given me. It’s a different way of showcasing my work compared to Flickr or temporary exhibitions. It’s a relief to know there’s a timeless space here where I can share a piece of my inner world on the wall.
Violet: It’s so heartwarming to hear that, Celestial! The pleasure is all ours! It means a lot to us that Souland Gallery can be that “timeless place” for you, where you feel comfortable displaying a part of your inner world. We really cherish being able to provide that sense of permanence and belonging for your art.
Celestial: I truly appreciate it.
Violet: I recently shared your work with Sethos Lionheart, the owner of Caerleone Manor, and he was instantly impressed! We’re in talks about possibly hosting an exhibition at Caerleone Manor this September, and there might even be a chance for you to participate in a lyrics event there.
You’ve also mentioned getting requests from other galleries in Second Life. What excites you the most about sharing your art with a broader audience across the grid and how do you feel about these exciting opportunities?
Celestial: Oh, that’s just terrible for me! laughs
Violet: Haha, I totally get it! laughs
Celestial: I’m always taken aback by the kindness and admiration people show towards my vision. I still feel that same sense of wonder and surprise as I did during my first performance at Dix, where this journey began for me, and where I met you.
Violet: That’s so touching to hear, Celestial. It’s really beautiful that even with all the recognition you’re getting, you still maintain that genuine sense of awe and gratitude when people resonate with your vision. It’s also lovely to remember that our paths first crossed at Dix, marking the start of your journey in such a meaningful way.
Celestial: I never would have imagined that Second Life could become this for me too.
Violet: Yes! It’s amazing how magical things can happen when we stay open to them!
How do you see your artistic style evolving in the years ahead? Are there any new techniques, themes, or approaches that you’re excited to dive into?
Celestial: Life itself serves as the foundation and the book from which I draw real inspiration. I believe that my journey through life will directly influence my photography.
Violet: That’s such a beautiful and natural way to think about your artistic growth, Celestial. Viewing “life itself” as your main source of inspiration means your art will always be genuine, evolving alongside you.
Celestial: Since the future is uncertain, it’s only natural to make mistakes along the way. It’s part of being human, but we’ll see where this journey takes us when the time comes.
Violet: It’s so true that the unpredictability of the future makes our actions and mistakes part of the human experience, and there’s something beautiful about just living in the moment and discovering where life leads you.
Do you have any long-term goals or dreams for your art within Second Life, or maybe even beyond it?
Celestial: Not exactly, but it feels like the mother of opportunities is always ready to give birth, so we’ll just have to wait and see what unfolds in the future. A few years back, I never would have imagined inserting myself into my own photographs, but who knows what else might happen down the line?
Violet: That’s such a beautifully optimistic and thoughtful viewpoint, Celestial! The phrase “the mother of opportunities is always pregnant” paints a vivid picture of how new possibilities are always on the horizon.
Do you have a personal motto, or maybe a line from a poem, song, or a wise saying that really resonates with you and helps guide your journey, whether creatively or in life in general?
Celestial: I really admire Gandhi’s perspective on intelligence. It’s like we need to be the parents of ourselves and embody the change we wish to see in the world. His words carry so much weight, and it’s important to use them wisely. I often find myself searching for a way of being, whether through writing, photography, or just in life.
Violet: That’s such a deep guiding principle, Celestial, and it beautifully ties back to Gandhi’s wisdom. The concept of being “parents of yourself” and actively living as the person you aspire to be speaks volumes about your self-awareness and dedication to personal growth. It’s a powerful philosophy to embrace, and it clearly reflects in your thoughtful approach to life.
How do you personally view the theme of “love” – in all its various forms – and does it play a role, directly or indirectly, in inspiring or shaping your photography and poetry?
Celestial: “hit and sunk”
Violet: (Laughing) “Hit and sunk” really nails the all-consuming nature of love, doesn’t it? It’s clear that love leaves a lasting mark! Thanks for painting such a vivid picture of its impact.
Celestial: Love is such a complex feeling, with so many different forms wrapped up in just one word. But if we think about it, love and the strength it brings have never let me down, even when I’ve stumbled along the way.
Violet: That’s a lovely way to build on your earlier point, Celestial. Describing it as a core “strength” that drives you forward, even when you face the vulnerability of making mistakes, really highlights its deep significance in your life and, it sounds like a brave and ongoing journey of discovery.
Violet: From your viewpoint, with all its intricacies and shades, would you say that love is indeed incredibly colorful? I mean, think of all those different hues of love…
Celestial: Absolutely, my friend. To be honest, I started writing at the age of 13, driven by the intense sensitivity of that time, sparked by a heartbreak. That experience has shaped who I am today. I believe that what we often think is wrong isn’t always meant for us. We need to embrace our weaknesses to find strength later on. Only then can we gain clearer insights and understand things differently, especially what we couldn’t grasp before due to a lack of personal experience. So, for better or worse, love is a part of us, and it’s certainly a part of me.
Violet: I understand dear. Finally, what message would you like to share with those who appreciate your art, and maybe even with aspiring virtual artists in Second Life?
Celestial: I don’t want to push a specific message on anyone; I believe everyone has their unique way of expressing themselves. However, I hope photography is seen as an open invitation for all of us to share our stories. For those who think they can’t create, I want to remind them that everyone has their own ink ready to write on a blank page. Each of us can express ourselves, as long as we take the time to know ourselves, even just a little. The journey isn’t found by standing still; it’s about moving forward, even if it means stumbling and getting back up.
Violet: That’s such a beautifully encouraging and inclusive message, Celestial. Your idea that “everyone has their own ink” and the wisdom in discovering our paths through action, even with the occasional misstep, is a powerful reminder to embrace creativity and personal growth. Thank you for sharing such an uplifting perspective!
Celestial: Thank you, my dear friend!
Celestial, this chat has been nothing short of eye-opening and deeply moving. I can’t express how grateful I am for the chance to glimpse into your world, to hear about the details of your creative journey, your inspirations, and the profound philosophy that influences both your art and your life. It’s genuinely a privilege to learn about your growth, from that first “weak click” to your understanding that photography is “visual writing engraved in the gaze,” and how you weave words together using images as your base.
Your openness about your art being a “huge channel of outburst” for you, along with your beautiful interpretation of “wings” as a symbol of inner freedom, truly reflects the authenticity that resonates deeply with your audience. We’re especially moved by your inclusive message for aspiring artists – that everyone has their “own ink in the pen” and that the journey unfolds as you navigate it, even if it means stumbling along the way.
It’s clear that your work is not just visually stunning but also rich in emotional depth, creating a genuine connection to the human experience. I am incredibly thankful for your permanent exhibition at Souland Gallery and are eagerly looking forward to your potential upcoming exhibition at Caerleone Manor, along with any other opportunities that come from “the mother of opportunities.”
Thank you so much, dear Celestial Demon, for sharing your thoughts, wisdom, and incredible spirit with us. This interview has truly given our readers a wonderful and unique insight into the extraordinary person, artist, and friend that you are. I can’t wait to see how your profound and beautiful artistry continues to evolve.
Celestial:
𝚃𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚌𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚖𝚘𝚛𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚗 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚔 𝚝𝚘 𝚍𝚎𝚜𝚎𝚛𝚟𝚎.
Celestial demon
𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚘𝚗𝚕𝚢 𝚢𝚘𝚞.
𝙰𝚕𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜.
CelestialDemon
Biography
Born in SL 11/01/2012
Allow me to introduce myself in a few eloquent lines. Although the precise cause or reason that led me to this illusory and boundless universe escapes me, I am acutely aware of why I remain firmly rooted here. The unfettered realm of creative expression, unparalleled exploration, and the select few individuals who embody true splendor, infuse me with the vitality necessary to plumb the depths of this vast ocean, to capture every nuance of color and divergent perspective.
I am profoundly grateful to these magnificent individuals, both for their blessings and their trials, for they have served to fortify my spirit. In moments of jubilation, I have acquired strength, while during times of anguish, I have transformed into a phoenix, rising from the ashes to begin anew.
I find myself drawn to the very notion of this universe, offering as it does, a canvas upon which I may paint the portrait of my soul, revealing my most intimate thoughts and emotions to complete strangers through mere photographs. Indeed, my presence here is driven by a desire for self-improvement, a yearning to know you and to expand my horizons.
