Robyn Gibbs is a self-taught creative arts entrepreneur known as Nocturnal Nymph. His overall aesthetic and style have been inspired by a lifelong love and interest for alternative Asian culture. Residing on the Isle of Sheppey, currently co rents a shop ‘Spoilt for Choice’ in Sheerness High Street with three other small business owners. He sells an eclectic mix including his own artwork and hand-crafted things. Alongside this he sells items that he has imported from Japan, South Korea, Thailand and China with the intent to spread cultural awareness and appreciation.
Workshop: Nocturnal Nymph: Legacy in Progress
Cultural awareness through shared artistic legacy.
Robyn grew up in Hackney, East London and was exposed to a mixture of varied cultures from an early age which would go on to influence him as he grew up. This early exposure made him appreciate things from all around the world, art, stories, games, food and clothing.
Fortunate to grow up during the western importation of Japanese pop culture, which boomed during the 90s early 00s, Robyn was one of many who discovered the big franchises of the time including; Pokemon, Yu-gi-oh!, Dragon ball and Sailor Moon. Often drawing the characters and writing stories about them. These have stayed with him into adulthood and are what formed the foundation of his current work. The legacy of his work comes from those who have shared their work and influenced others to do the same. Passing from one artist to another regardless of borders this shared legacy belongs to everyone who helps it continue.
Creating Nocturnal Nymph was a way to share his artwork and his passion with those around him on-line. Wanting to meet others who shared their love for the manga style art. There came the opportunity to sell art prints and stickers at a local market. Which was successful however as the business grew and expanded he diversified out into the things he wanted to share. Importing pop culture merchandise from Japan, especially Pokemon. His customers were so ecstatic to be able to purchase genuine items that it became a big part of his business. Always complimenting his own artwork and passion for story-telling.
The future for Nocturnal Nymph is a positive one. Currently working towards giving artistic jobs and work experience opportunities to other people who are wanting to get into the industry. Alongside this will also be working with other local companies to support development and growth to help educate others and bring awareness to cultural links and the diversity on the island that they live. From there the goal is to be able to find other neurodiverse/queer companies outside of the UK to work with and grow with. For this reason, the Nocturnal Nymph name will be one that continues to grow, expand and be associated with advancement and progress for the Isle of Sheppey, giving much needed opportunities for an impoverished area.
Short power point presentation will consist of this in more detail, images of Robyn’s artwork, workshops that he has run, the shop, images of market stalls that he has done. Then he will discuss the importance of overseas connectivity and how this enables us to not only grow as individuals but as businesses too.
Email address: nocturnalnymphltd@gmail.com
Website: https://nocturnal-nymph.square.site/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090125870656
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nocturnalnymphltd/