Introducing StakeARThttps://medium.com/@Murkymerkleroot/introducing-stakeart-2f5b9e6bebbaWelcome to StakeART, a new series that aims to explore digital currencies by way of digital art work. The principle aim of StakeART is to complement our traditional articles by commissioning original, thought provoking digital art. In other words, we want to expand the engagement of XSN and digital currencies beyond the written word. Much of the work featured in this series will, naturally, call to mind Stakenet, and its native currency, XSN.
One of the reasons why we chose to focus on digital art work that is inspired by digital currency is because of the controversy inherent in both. Digital art is frequently snubbed by the traditional art world. When artists first started using computers instead of a palette and brushes, critics were less than impressed. Such elitism is unsurprising; Impressionist paintings were almost universally loathed before they were beloved.
Thankfully, highbrow opinions of digital art are changing, albeit slowly. The rise of digital currencies is unfolding in a similar manner. First, digital currencies were considered to be worthless. Next, they were deemed to be the purview of criminals. Now, VC firms are falling over themselves to fund the next Oracle or Google. Whatever, the cause, change often frightens before it excites. Suffice to say that here at XSNArmyBlog, we couldn’t be more excited about digital currencies.
The title of this series is derived from the fact that in a very literal sense, Stakenet is providing the funding for these compelling digital works. Thanks to Stakenet’s revolutionary Tpos system, XSNArmyBlog’s own XSN supply is earning rewards that we will use to support working artists. You read that right: StakeART commissions works that are created by paid artists. We do not expect the incredibly talented individuals involved with this series to work for free, and you shouldn’t either.
Now that the unique funding model of this series has been explained, it is time to unveil the first work in the series, Welcome. Partly inspired by vintage Metroid Prime adverts, Welcome is the cell-shaded work of a very talented artist (his other clients include major video game publishers), who wishes to remain anonymous. Cell-shading refers to a style of computer rendering that looks almost indistinguishable from hand-drawn artwork. Enjoy.
What do you think of Welcome ? What are your thoughts on the decision to expand XSNArmyBlog in this direction ? Please let us know in the comments section, below. Rest assured, we will continue to produce our traditional written articles that talk about the ideas, technology, and individuals that are shaping digital currency. If you are a fan of digital currencies and you want to contribute to StakeART, come visit us on Discord. Alternatively, write to
[email protected]. Until next time, Happy Staking !