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A non-fungible token (NFT) is a tamper-proof unit of data stored on the blockchain. It can store extensive information, is often associated with a digital or physical item, and can be sold and traded.

Either a digital artwork minted as an NFT or a physical artwork that’s had its microstructure scanned, captured, and minted as an NFT.

The associated NFT can then serve as a form of authentication for the artwork, store extensive information about the work/artist, and be used to sell and trade the work.

Ben Pearce’s #paperpalsaotearoa NFT art is an experiential extension of his #paperpalsaotearoa sculpture series. 

The series comprises four origami-style animals made of colourfully painted sheet steel, 2 metres in height. Each sculpture has been transformed into an individual digital artwork that showcases the animal surrounded by natural elements while encased in a glass globe.

To turn the sculptures into NFT art, Pearce collaborated with specialist visualisation designer Rupert Enberg who transformed Pearce’s computerised models into the 3D digital artwork. From there, the artwork was ‘minted’ on the Ethereum blockchain, creating a tamper-proof and authenticated digital asset.