Sebastian Burdon / Whatshisname

Sebastian Bieniek, who goes by the playful pseudonym Whatshisname, grew up in eastern Poland. At the age of seven, he created his first digital images on an old ATARI® 130XE™ computer, building the pictures pixel by pixel using a text editor—a style now known as pixel art. Diagnosed with dyslexia, he came to understand the world primarily through images, and television shows and movies greatly influenced his artistic style. He often jokes that he was a true “TV kid.”

In 2006, Sebastian moved to London, England, where he completed his studies at Kingston University and worked as an assistant for several British artists. As 3D printing technology became more accessible, he began to combine technology with 3D art, developing a new creative approach and starting his career as a full-time artist.

Since he found it difficult to remember the names of other artists, he humorously adopted the pseudonym Whatshisname. His artistic goal is to convey what language cannot. He aims to provoke viewers to question their surroundings in a humorous and unconventional way, encouraging them to think outside the box and see the world with a sense of wit and fun. His work often blends themes of childhood, nostalgia, and pop culture to create a feeling of joy and delight.

In his “Gone” series, Sebastian brings beloved childhood icons like Mickey Mouse, Homer Simpson, Winnie the Pooh, and Buzz Lightyear to life. These characters, who once shaped our early lives, are now just faded memories, blurred silhouettes. The figures in the prints reach out to us, their hands pressed against the canvas, as a reminder of their existence. Are they waving goodbye as they fade from our memory, or are they softly calling out, “We are still here; don’t forget us…”?