The GIRUDO Artist Feature series shines the spotlight on the artists who participate in and create work for the anime, comic, fantasy, and gaming spaces. As part of GIRUDO’s launch, we commissioned original artworks from select artists to bring the GIRUDO platform to life. Today, we’re featuring one of these artists, Niark1.
Originally from Paris, Sébastien Féraut, also known as Niark1, is an artist based in Montpellier, France. His bold and surreal portraits of fantastical figures are unrestrained and imaginative, yet immediately recognizable. You can find his psychedelic illustrations on billboards and beer bottles, as murals on the street or jigsaw puzzles on a table.
GIRUDO: Hi Seb! Thanks for agreeing to this interview. You frequently depict monsters, hybrid beings, and multi-eyed creatures in your work. Can you share with us the significance of these entities and why you are drawn to them?
Niark1: I’ve always been captivated by monsters and strange creatures. The main reason I’m drawn to them is the incredible creative freedom they offer. When I draw these entities — hybrid beings or multi-eyed figures — I don’t have to adhere to any aesthetic rules or respect typical proportions. There are absolutely no limits, which allows me to imagine anything and everything.
In a deeper sense, my creations also serve as a reflection of humanity. They function as entities that can embody the different moods, characters, and flaws we all possess. They are a way for me to explore the human condition without being constrained by the human form.
GIRUDO: So it’s all about freedom of expression? Very cool. Your portfolio is extremely broad, and you have worked with a wide range of clients, including artists and commercial brands. Why do you think clients seek you out? Do you think your artistic style and vision speak to them and their audiences in a unique way?
Niark1: I imagine that most clients seek collaboration primarily because of my distinct aesthetic universe. My style is the core reason they reach out, and that’s something I consider non-negotiable. If I can’t inject my personal artistic signature into a proposed project, it’s generally a dealbreaker for me.
Sometimes, I am genuinely surprised when certain clients approach me, given the variety of my style! But, more often than not, these collaborations are projects I truly enjoy working on.
Naturally, my client base is very broad. It ranges from children’s publishing to specialized magazine illustrations, clothing brands, music festivals, and work for musical artists. I believe my artistic style and vision offer a unique perspective that cuts through the noise and speaks to their audiences in an impactful, memorable way.
GIRUDO: Of course, your client base now includes trading card games! If we’re not mistaken, you became well known to the trading card game community after you illustrated the prize version of Ragavan, Nimble Pilferer for Magic: the Gathering. Tell us a bit more about that experience and what it’s like to create art for the gaming space.
Niark1: My journey into the world of Magic: The Gathering (MtG) began when I was approached to contribute to the Secret Lair packs. I first illustrated a version of Persistent Petitioners and then later, Seshiro. However, the most significant project was creating the tournament prize card version of Ragavan, Nimble Pilferer.
To be honest, at the time, I wasn’t deeply familiar with the Magic universe, and I was completely taken aback by the incredible fandom and excitement that the card generated. The subsequent rush of fan requests and collector interest was simply wild! Despite my initial lack of knowledge about the community, it was an incredibly fun and rewarding experience to create art for such a dynamic and passionate gaming space.
GIRUDO: We gave you some very general prompts for the three artworks you created for GIRUDO. Our community adores the depth and detail of the images, which each convey a unique world unto itself. Perhaps an unfair question – which image is your favorite one and can you discuss your creative process for it?
Niark1: First off, thanks for having me create these artworks!
My favourite of the three is definitely the Dragon. I’ve always loved drawing these kinds of imposing, horned creatures, and I wanted to give this one a strong atmosphere using monochromatic reds and yellows to evoke fire and volcanic heat.
My process starts with a few sketches, but once I’m in the digital phase, I allow a lot of improvisation to add unexpected details. After the main shapes are set, I focus on the textures and colours to bring the creature to life.
GIRUDO: We have a tradition of asking our artist partners to share a quote or message with the GIRUDO community. What would you like to say?
Niark1: My message is quite simple — Have FUN!
Note: Interview edited for context and clarity.
For more information about NIARK, please visit: Seb NIARK1 FERAUT
