Thank you for joining us today. Let’s begin by understanding how your background and previous experiences led you to the NFT domain. Can you share your narrative?

Definitely. My intrigue towards cryptocurrencies during 2020-2021 laid the foundation for my foray into the NFT sphere, which began with the 2021 crypto bull run on Rarible. Although I minted four distinct NFTs, my lack of connections in the space made selling them a challenge. The high costs led me to a hiatus, during which I delved into a Turkish NFT community. Their support and a chance to have my OpenSea registration fees covered reignited my creative spark. Despite financial constraints, I crafted my Imok collection, which marked a turning point in my NFT journey.

Interesting! What would you say was the spark that drew you towards NFTs and digital art?

The allure of etching a part of oneself in the immutable annals of blockchain, to be passed down to posterity, was incredibly captivating. It felt like becoming a fragment of history, a notion too enticing to resist.

How has venturing into NFTs impacted your artistic style or the exploration of themes in your work?

It’s been profound. Unlike the physical realm where commissions dictated my creations, the NFT space empowered me to express my style and build my brand. This freedom has been invaluable.

Engaging with the NFT community surely must have had its share of insights. Could you share some?

Absolutely. The camaraderie and the spirit of collective growth in the NFT community has been enlightening, especially coming from a background where individualism predominated. It’s a milieu where I could evolve artistically.

The blockchain is the bedrock of NFTs. What facets of blockchain technology intrigue you the most?

It’s the creation of an immutable reality! We’re at the rudimentary stages of this groundbreaking technology, akin to cavemen, with an exhilarating future ahead.

Among your works, do you have a favorite project or artwork? Could you share the story or inspiration behind it?

My cherished project is the Imok NFT collection, mirroring daily experiences and embodying the philosophy of Heraclitus’s ‘Fire Arches’ symbolizing change. Connecting with over 100 art aficionados through this collection has been gratifying.

Collaboration often breeds innovation. Have you collaborated with other NFT artists or blockchain projects?

Certainly. Collaborations are potent avenues for brand building and forging robust connections. It’s an exemplary marketing strategy, bolstering mutual growth.

The learning curve in the NFT space can be steep. What challenges did you encounter and how did you surmount them?

The realm wasn’t devoid of scams and deceptions, but my love for creation acted as a therapeutic anchor, helping me navigate through the rough waters.

As you look ahead, what are your aspirations in the NFT landscape and how do you envisage contributing to it?

It’s a canvas of endless possibilities. Meeting brilliant minds here fuels new ideas and paths. Like any artist, striving for a legacy and contributing to the NFT ecosystem is the dream.

 Lastly, any pearls of wisdom for budding artists eyeing the NFT space?

Embrace the freedom, keep honing your unique style, forge meaningful connections, and never halt the learning process. The journey is as remarkable as the destination.

You can learn more about ogunkizmaz here

https://ogun.tasseo.xyz/wearecrazy

TLDR: The interview unveils ogunkizmaz journey from cryptocurrency exploration to NFT creation, emphasizing the importance of community support, the allure of blockchain’s immutability, and the liberation the NFT space offers to artists. Through hurdles and collaborations, the narrative unfolds a path of continuous learning and the aspiration for a lasting legacy in the burgeoning NFT ecosystem.

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The Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC), one of the most renowned NFT communities in the digital space, has unveiled yet another exciting venture: the “Made By Apes Bodega”. Announced via their official Twitter handle, this initiative emphasizes BAYC’s commitment to strengthening the bond between NFT owners and the creators.

The Details:

• Official Directory: Accessible at https://madeby.yuga.com/apes/bodega, the Bodega is set to be the primary directory for active and verified MBA licenses. With this step, BAYC ensures that there’s a centralized space for all valid Bored Ape and Mutant Ape creations.
• Innovative Integration: What sets the Bodega apart is its live integration with on-chain MBA licenses. This ensures that the content displayed is not only up-to-date but also authentic. It underscores the growing bond between blockchain technology and digital art, offering a seamless, trustable interface for all stakeholders.
• An Homage to Creativity: BAYC’s subsequent tweet paid tribute to the “Apes” – members of the community who’ve been at the forefront of molding and evolving their Intellectual Property (IP). The Bodega is not just a directory; it’s a testament to the relentless creativity and innovation that has been a hallmark of the BAYC community.
• Stay Updated: With more licenses set to be approved and incorporated into the Bodega, enthusiasts and collectors are encouraged to keep an eye out. This evolving space promises to be an ever-expanding universe of BAYC creations.

Today, we're excited to introduce the Made By Apes Bodega found at https://t.co/HD0lsFHmSO.

The Bodega will act as the official directory for all valid and active MBA licenses. pic.twitter.com/B3IHVciyp0

— Bored Ape Yacht Club (@BoredApeYC) September 13, 2023

TLDR: Bored Ape Yacht Club introduces the “Made By Apes Bodega”, an official directory for active MBA licenses. This platform, which integrates live with on-chain MBA licenses, aims to centralize and showcase the plethora of Bored Ape and Mutant Ape creations. It stands as a testament to the community’s creativity and innovation.

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Onchain Summer, a month-long festivity organized by Base, the L2 venture incubated by Coinbase, culminated last week, leaving an indelible mark in the realm of onchain technology. Celebrating the exhilarating launch of Base Mainnet, Onchain Summer manifested the immense community zeal, bringing together over 50 pioneering companies, prodigious artists, and innovative creators. From August 9 to August 31, a unique mint unveiled daily, underscoring the might of onchain technology.

Onchain Summer by the Numbers:

• An astounding 700K mints over the course of 23 days.
• Participation from 268K distinct wallets.
• The big hitters in partner collections included Coca-Cola (80K), Iskra (71K), FWB (71K), Zora (70K), and anotherblock (55K).
• The most prolific creator mints were Base itself with a whopping 154K, followed by Iskra (71K), Deekay Motion (45K), Zorb (44K), and Kleerup (31K).

Onchain Summer’s Essence: Central to Onchain Summer was the spirit of unity and collaboration. With contributors like FWB, Parallel, anotherblock, Coca-Cola, and many others, the event represented the vast potential of the onchain space. Artists like Slimesunday collaborated to echo the transformative nature of NFTs, reinforcing their permanence in the digital world, not as a mere transient trend but as revolutionary tools that amplify creativity.

The sheer volume of participation, with 700,000 mints from 268,000 unique wallets, underscores the burgeoning onchain ecosystem.

Quotes like, “The odds of you being alive at the birth of a major art movement is close to zero,” from Cozomo de’ Medici, encapsulate the essence of the event, highlighting the privilege of shaping a prominent art movement.

Jesse Pollak, the brains behind Base, took audiences on a daily journey with his Onchain Summer Stories livestreams, accumulating over 200,000 views. These sessions spotlighted the exceptional architects of our digital future, delineating the vast spectrum of onchain possibilities.

Closing Thoughts: Onchain Summer was not merely a commemoration; it exemplified the potential of an evolving onchain universe. As Ed Fornieles articulated, the near future might see a world where terms like ‘web3’ become so ingrained that they dissolve into everyday life. A boundless universe where art, innovation, and creativity assume unprecedented forms, and the horizons are infinite.

Though Onchain Summer might have come to a close, the onchain epoch is in full swing, promising unending digital summers.

TL;DR: Base’s Onchain Summer, a month-long event, celebrated the launch of Base Mainnet. With over 700K mints from 268K wallets, it showcased the dynamism of onchain technology, emphasizing the boundless potential of the digital future.

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On August 24th, the digital art world will witness the birth of the “Heart + Craft” project, an innovative collaborative endeavor between the Snowfro and @JordanLyall, set to be unveiled on @ProhibitionArt for a reasonable 0.01 ETH.

This ambitious project isn’t just another NFT drop; it’s a testament to the Snowfro’s consistent journey from 2014, always seeking ways to bring more to the NFT table than just scarcity or the lure of future value. Heart + Craft is the embodiment of a dream that marries digital creativity with physical representation, aiming to resonate with a diverse audience.

There are no links in this post. Please be weary of impersonators. The project will not go live until next week and anything stating otherwise is a scam.

TLDR: On August 24th I’m releasing an inclusive edition generative project called Heart + Craft, in collaboration with… pic.twitter.com/jS3hYNqlXy

— Erick / Snowfro / / LAO / #⃣ / (@ArtOnBlockchain) August 15, 2023

At its essence, Heart + Craft paints a vivid picture of the artist’s undying passion for gradients, crafted into heart-shaped designs. Inspired by the iconic Zelda heart container, every piece offers an exclusive combination of colors and blocks. But what’s even more captivating is its duality. Each digital artwork comes with the potential to exist in the physical realm, granting the owner the freedom to choose which form they treasure more.

Drawing parallels to the Friendship Bracelets initiative SnowFro conceptualized with @MacTuitui, every Heart + Craft digital token is accompanied by intricate guidelines to craft its real-world replica. Interestingly, the physical piece’s existence in no way undermines the digital artwork’s intrinsic value.

Delving deeper into this groundbreaking initiative, several aspects stand out:

1. Rarity Defined by Physical Complexity: The project intriguingly bases the rarity of each piece on the intricacy involved in its physical assembly.
2. A Respite from the Virtual: Heart + Craft aspires to remind people of the charm of tangible creativity, urging them to momentarily disconnect from their screens and craft something that adorns their real-world surroundings.
3. Spread Positivity: Engaging with Heart + Craft is akin to piecing together a puzzle. It’s a soothing journey that culminates in personal achievement and contributes to making our surroundings more vibrant and joyful.
4. Revolutionizing Distribution: This endeavor also looks to redefine how digital artworks are distributed. Imagine owning an inclusive edition that comes packaged with crafting essentials like paint, cubes, and glue, along with a certificate of digital ownership, all beautifully boxed.
5. Igniting Digital Curiosity Through Craft: The project envisions a world where handcrafted art can kindle an interest in digital assets and vice-versa.
6. An Affable Introduction to the NFT World: By setting an affordable price point and designing a project perfect for family interactions or gifting, Heart + Craft aims to welcome newcomers to the realm of NFTs with open arms.
7. Charity Through Art: Upholding the generous spirit that the NFT community is renowned for, a segment of the project’s proceeds will be channeled to bolster the arts.

Closing on a personal note, the artist expresses profound gratitude to collaborators like Jordan, the @venture_punk squad, and platforms like @artblocks_io and @ArtBlocksEngine, which have played a pivotal role in shaping the future of generative art. The undying support of collectors, fellow artists, and cherished loved ones, especially the artist’s wife, has been the cornerstone behind this vision.

Zelda inspired but no Links? - LorenBednar

To sum it up, Heart + Craft isn’t just an NFT; it’s a heartfelt invitation to explore the symbiotic relationship between the tactile and virtual domains of art. Hopefully, it inspires many to rekindle their connection with tangible mediums like paint in the times to come.

TLDR: The “Heart + Craft” project, launching on August 24th on @ProhibitionArt, merges digital NFTs with physical art. Each digital heart-shaped artwork, priced at 0.01 ETH, can be transformed into a tangible piece. The project celebrates the balance between the virtual and real, champions the joys of hands-on creation, and introduces a fresh distribution approach for digital art. It’s an ode to creativity, collaboration, and community, encouraging everyone to embrace both digital and physical realms of artistic expression.

Tags: NFT, Heart + Craft, generative art, digital art, physical art, innovation, collaboration, creativity, @ProhibitionArt, @JordanLyall, @MacTuitui, @venture_punk, @artblocks_io, @ArtBlocksEngine.

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Starbucks has taken a bold step into the world of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) extending odyssey through a remarkable collaboration with Micah Johnson and his Aku NFT Project. Aku has firmly established itself as a prominent figure in the NFT space, making waves as one of the early and defining NFT pieces on Nifty Gateway. The project has undergone an impressive evolution, introducing captivating Aku chapters and even launching akutars, captivating the attention of both art enthusiasts and celebrities alike.

Despite facing a significant setback, with around $40 million becoming irreversibly locked in a contract, Micah Johnson and his team exhibited unwavering determination and resilience. Their unwavering commitment has successfully transformed Aku into a cultural icon, capturing the imagination of a wide audience.

Now, Starbucks is joining forces with Micah Johnson’s Aku NFT Project to offer an extraordinary addition to its Web3 loyalty program, Odyssey. The program recently announced an exclusive collaboration with the Aku collection for their highly anticipated digital collectible Stamp. This exciting news was shared on Starbucks’ dedicated Discord channel, generating tremendous excitement among avid collectors and NFT enthusiasts.

The Aku collection, curated by Micah Johnson, a former Major League Baseball player, centers around empowering young children to dream big. The collection’s NFTs have already been acquired by prominent figures in the entertainment industry, including Trevor Noah, Pusha T, and Tyra Banks, further solidifying Aku’s status as a sought-after and influential art collection.

Mark your calendars for July 17, as Starbucks launches the new Journey named “Aku Adventure.” This thrilling Odyssey will enable members to embark on a captivating mission alongside the enigmatic Aku. As revealed in the Discord post, the new Stamp will bear the unique design touch of Aku, adding an extra layer of exclusivity and allure. Odyssey members will have the opportunity to partake in this immersive experience until August 13, 2023, unlocking a world of limitless imagination and artistic expression.

However, the collaboration with Aku goes beyond mere collectibles. Starbucks has also pledged a generous $100,000 donation to Blessings in a Backpack, a commendable non-profit organization dedicated to combating food insecurity among children. This philanthropic endeavor reflects Starbucks’ commitment to making a positive impact on society and addressing pressing issues that affect vulnerable communities.

Starbucks has been actively embracing the world of NFTs, introducing limited-edition digital collectibles to members of their invitation-only Odyssey loyalty program over the past few months. In March, they released “The Siren Collection,” offering 2,000 Stamps priced at $100 each. The release garnered unprecedented demand, leading to some eager collectors experiencing minor delays and technical glitches. Building upon this success, in April, the coffee giant introduced “The Starbucks First Store Collection,” which consisted of a carefully crafted edition of 5,000 Stamps, priced at $99 each, resulting in a smoother and more accessible release for passionate collectors.

With this groundbreaking partnership, Starbucks is pushing boundaries and embracing the digital frontier in captivating ways. Collaborating with Micah Johnson’s Aku NFT Project is a testament to their commitment to innovation, artistry, and philanthropy. The union of Starbucks’ Odyssey and Aku promises an extraordinary fusion of creativity, storytelling, and community, paving the way for exciting possibilities in the world of NFTs and beyond. Stay tuned for the Aku Adventure and be ready to embark on a transformative journey that intertwines art, technology, and compassion.

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Get ready for an incredible leap into the future of utility and gaming with NFTs! Today, Nike Virtual Studios and EA SPORTS have announced a groundbreaking partnership that will revolutionize the virtual sports experience worldwide. This collaboration brings together two powerhouses in the sports and entertainment industries, and it’s set to introduce exciting new ways for members of Nike’s digital community, .SWOOSH, and EA SPORTS fans to express their unique style through gameplay.

The partnership between Nike and EA SPORTS aims to create immersive experiences and unlock unparalleled levels of customization within the EA SPORTS ecosystem. In upcoming EA SPORTS titles, both companies plan to make select .SWOOSH virtual creations available, providing members and players with extraordinary opportunities for self-expression and creativity in the realms of sports and style.

Ron Faris, the GM of Nike Virtual Studios, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Nike and EA SPORTS share a commitment to innovation, creativity, and excellence, and we are thrilled to partner with them.” This collaboration will undoubtedly bring incredible new experiences to the .SWOOSH community and the vast EA SPORTS fan base.

“Nike and EA SPORTS share a commitment to innovation, creativity, and excellence, and we are thrilled to partner with them,” said Ron Faris, GM of Nike Virtual Studios. “This partnership will allow us to unlock some incredible new experiences for our .SWOOSH community and the massive EA SPORTS fan base.”

Andrea Hopelain, the SVP of Brand for EA SPORTS & Racing, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, saying, “All of us at EA SPORTS are focused on leading the next evolution in sports fandom, and this new collaboration with our longtime partners at Nike sits directly at the intersection of innovation, sport, and culture.” By working with .SWOOSH, they aim to bring creativity and self-expression to the forefront, allowing fans to connect, compete, and share their love for sports in unprecedented ways.

More details about the integration of the .SWOOSH community with future EA SPORTS experiences will be revealed in the upcoming months. Exciting times lie ahead!

Although .SWOOSH is currently in a closed beta phase to ensure a fair and safe platform, you can register to become a .SWOOSH member at welcome.swoosh.nike. Stay updated by following the dotSwoosh blog on Medium and @dotSWOOSH on Twitter or Instagram. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary journey into the future of utility and gaming with NFTs!

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MakersPlace, the leading marketplace for rare and authentic digital fine art, has introduced an innovative initiative known as the Artist Launchpad Program. This program aims to empower artists by equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge to thrive in the ever-evolving world of non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

For artists looking to make their mark in the web3 digital art scene, finding the right community and understanding the best practices can be a challenge. MakersPlace recognizes this and has developed the Artist Launchpad Program to address these concerns. The program offers a range of benefits to participants, including:

1. Community: MakersPlace has created a dedicated private Discord server exclusively for program members. This platform allows artists to connect with one another, share their experiences, and network effectively. By building a strong web3 community, artists can support and inspire each other on their artistic journeys.
2. Education: Recognizing the importance of knowledge and continuous learning, MakersPlace offers monthly educational courses hosted on Notion. These courses provide artists with the latest strategies and techniques needed to stand out in a highly competitive market. By staying up-to-date with industry trends and honing their skills, artists can enhance their chances of success.
3. Collaboration: MakersPlace has partnered with The Dream Conduit, a non-profit organization that specializes in providing workshops, mentorship, and classes for aspiring web3 artists. Through this collaboration, program participants gain access to valuable guidance and insights from industry experts. Additionally, MakersPlace facilitates exclusive interviews with renowned artists and collectors, allowing participants to learn directly from those who have achieved significant success in the field.
4. Discovery: The Artist Launchpad Program celebrates artists’ dedication and efforts by offering rewards at various milestones. These rewards include free minting credits, opportunities to be featured on MakersPlace’s platforms, and even personal exhibit opportunities. By acknowledging and promoting artists’ achievements, MakersPlace aims to boost their NFT careers and provide them with greater exposure.

The program will run for four months, commencing in June and concluding in September. Structured like a semester, it prioritizes education, community building, and motivation. MakersPlace encourages artists to invest in their careers as much as they have invested in perfecting their artistic craft.

In summary, the MakersPlace Artist Launchpad Program is designed to support digital artists in their pursuit of recognition and success in the web3 space. By emphasizing community, education, collaboration, and discovery, MakersPlace aims to equip artists with the necessary tools and resources to thrive in the competitive NFT landscape. Artists interested in joining the program can submit their information for consideration and can expect to receive program details during the week of June 16.

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Mercedes-Benz NXT, the digital ecosystem of the renowned luxury automaker, has partnered with acclaimed generative artist Harm van den Dorpel and art collectors Fingerprints DAO to create a groundbreaking NFT collection named “Maschine.” This collaboration not only showcases Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to innovation and artistic expression but also highlights the growing significance of NFTs in the luxury industry. With its rich history of craftsmanship and design excellence, Mercedes-Benz is well-positioned to explore the potential of NFTs and establish itself as a pioneer in the digital art world.

Mercedes-Benz’s Legacy of Creativity

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing tradition of embracing the arts and engaging in co-creation. Collaborations and creative interactions have been at the heart of the company’s design philosophy, fostering fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that have shaped its iconic vehicles. By extending this philosophy to the realm of NFTs and generative art, Mercedes-Benz continues to push boundaries and redefine the concept of luxury beyond traditional automotive craftsmanship.

The Rise of NFTs and the Appeal for Luxury Brands

Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) have gained immense popularity in recent years, revolutionizing the art market and providing new avenues for creators to monetize their digital works. NFTs offer unique digital assets that can be bought, sold, and owned, utilizing blockchain technology to ensure authenticity and scarcity. This digital innovation resonates strongly with luxury brands seeking to tap into the digital realm and engage with a tech-savvy audience.

Mercedes-Benz’s strategic foray into the NFT space is a testament to the brand’s ability to adapt to evolving consumer trends and explore new possibilities. By collaborating with established artists and collectors like Harm van den Dorpel and Fingerprints DAO, Mercedes-Benz demonstrates its commitment to nurturing artistic talent and supporting groundbreaking initiatives within the digital art landscape.

Exploring Emergent Aesthetics:

Harm van den Dorpel is an artist dedicated to discovering emergent aesthetics through the composition of software and language. Drawing inspiration from diverse fields such as genetics and blockchain, he creates thought-provoking artworks that challenge traditional notions of art. As a co-founder of the left gallery, van den Dorpel has played a pivotal role in showcasing contemporary art that pushes boundaries and breaks new ground. Based in Berlin, he thrives in an environment that fosters creativity and allows for unconventional artistic expressions.

The “Maschine” Collection: Merging Art and Technology: The “Maschine” collection represents a significant milestone for Harm van den Dorpel, as it combines his expertise in generative art with his first foray into 3D work. To curate the collection, van den Dorpel developed a custom neural network that identifies and selects generated outputs based on his artistic preferences. This fusion of art and technology showcases the cutting-edge nature of the “Maschine” collection, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

Guided by Fingerprints DAO, a collector of historic blockchain-based generative art, this collaboration aligns with Mercedes-Benz NXT’s vision of creating digital objects that transcend time. Fingerprints DAO will host the upcoming “Maschine” Dutch auction, providing collectors with an opportunity to acquire these unique digital artworks and furthering their dedication to advancing outstanding generative art.

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