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Imagine stepping into the world of digital art and NFTs with someone who has significantly shaped our digital landscape. Meet Chikai, the visionary mind behind Monolith Gallery, Circle of Friends, Postino, and Bluebeard AI. As a co-creator of Google Earth, Chikai shares his initial surprise and curiosity about NFTs, which later evolved into a profound appreciation for this burgeoning digital art market. Alongside this digital journey, we explore his love for San Francisco, his dreams of living in New York and Japan, and a charming family tale about his kids' eagerness to visit the Godzilla Museum in Japan.

Take a nostalgic trip with us as we blend the love of collecting comic books with the excitement and challenges of the Web3 space. Chikai and I discuss the deep community bonds formed within this digital realm, even amid market fluctuations. We delve into the complexities surrounding NFT royalties and provenance, highlighting the urgency for consistent standards to uphold trust and sustainability. As we reminisce about cherished childhood toys, concerns about the shifting practices across platforms emerge, underscoring the need for clarity and stability in this dynamic landscape.

Feel the energy of passionate environmental efforts as we draw parallels between Christine and Doug Tompkins' conservation projects and the pioneering spirit within the NFT community. Inspired by their story, we emphasize the value of in-person connections in the crypto art world and share aspirations for fostering global micro-events that strengthen our collective spirit. Join us in celebrating memorable NFT collaborations and dream partnerships, while reflecting on the balance between ambitious projects and family life. Chikai and I express our gratitude for the community's unwavering support, which continues to fuel our enthusiasm for future collaborations and opportunities.

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Meet Michelle Thompson, a talented illustrator turned NFT artist, who joins us to share her inspiring journey from traditional art to the dynamic world of NFTs and Web3. With a rich artistic background influenced by her grandfather, Michelle talks about her seamless transition to a freelance career and the initial apprehensions she faced entering the crypto art scene. She highlights how the social aspects of Web3 have transformed her experience, allowing her to connect directly with collectors and break free from the isolation often felt in traditional illustration. Listen in as she offers valuable advice to new artists on maintaining consistency and diversifying income streams beyond NFTs.

This episode unpacks the challenges and insights of navigating the art world, with a focus on curation and distribution of digital art. Michelle shares her thoughts on the difficulty of reaching anonymous collectors and the benefits of using PO boxes to facilitate these exchanges. Our discussion touches on the shift from scarcity to broader accessibility in the art market, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in pricing strategies. With high-profile sales and fluctuating market demands, artists must find a balance between limited editions and mass distribution to stay relevant in this rapidly evolving space.

Our conversation with Michelle takes a delightful turn as we explore future trends and her personal musings about life in Lisbon. From the potential of augmented reality in art to the supportive nature of the art community, Michelle paints a picture of an exciting future for artists willing to embrace change and innovation. As we wrap up, the episode leaves listeners with a sense of camaraderie and the joys of genuine connections, sprinkled with light-hearted moments about future encounters, the joys of podcasting, and a shared appreciation for a good gin and tonic.

https://x.com/mich_tom

https://www.michelle-thompson.com/

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Imagine living a life of endless summers while collecting cutting-edge digital art — that's just a slice of what our captivating guest, Giga Chad Pepe, is all about. Transitioning from a Pokémon card enthusiast to a trailblazer in the NFT realm, Giga Chad offers fascinating insights into how Web3 is reshaping the art world. His stories about supporting artists in politically turbulent regions and his unique approach to selecting NFTs will both entertain and enlighten you. Expect humor and depth as he shares anecdotes, including a whimsical tale involving a rotary flashlight adorned with Pepe stickers.

Ever wondered how someone can seamlessly combine a passion for art, travel, and community into one vibrant lifestyle? Giga Chad Pepe takes us on a journey through his cross-hemisphere adventures, capturing the spirit of both North and South America. He expresses his admiration for artists like James Mercer and Ruben Woo, offering a glimpse into his personal tastes and aspirations. Whether he's commissioning bespoke art or hitting the dance floor, Giga Chad's zest for life is infectious, giving listeners a fresh perspective on connecting with the world around them.

Our conversation wraps with a mysterious and light-hearted exploration of the Norcal lifestyle, styled with Giga Chad's signature humor and charm. With the playful question of "Who is this guy?" lingering in the air, we invite you to join us as we chill out and explore the quirky, laid-back culture of Northern California. From the profound to the peculiarly delightful, this episode promises a rich tapestry of insights into the burgeoning world of NFTs, all tied together by Giga Chad Pepe's unique and engaging storytelling.

https://x.com/Giga_Chad_Pepe

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