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Ever wonder what goes through a collector's mind when they decide to purchase digital art? Funghibull pulls back the curtain on the fascinating world of crypto art collecting in this candid conversation about connection, community, and the future of creative ownership.

Funghibull's journey begins like many others—with healthy skepticism. "What the hell is going on here?" was his first reaction to NFTs before recognizing their revolutionary potential. Through a friend's guidance, he made his first significant investment in CryptoPunks in late 2020, experiencing that initial "am I a genius?" moment before quickly recognizing it as fortunate timing and good connections.

What truly sets Funghibull apart is his philosophy on collecting: "Connect with people because you want to, not because you want something." In a space built around transactions, he emphasizes authentic relationships over opportunistic networking. This approach has guided his development of Schiller, which has exhibited approximately 800 artists at major events and evolved into a multifaceted platform supporting creators through media, exhibitions, and community building.

The conversation delves into the nuanced decision-making process behind collecting art—from the pieces that linger in his mind long after viewing to the balance between emotional resonance and financial pragmatism. Funghibull envisions a future where blockchain enables average people to collect art directly from creators, creating more equitable relationships while acknowledging the challenges this frictionless environment presents for artists.

Beyond collecting insights, Funghibull shares his "hot takes" on the space—collectors should stop telling artists what to do unprompted, while artists might benefit from remaining open to strategic guidance from business-minded collectors. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the technology that makes this all possible, noting how artists who master both their craft and the underlying tech often find unique ways to express themselves.

Curious about the intersection of art, technology, and community? Listen now to gain perspective from someone actively building "permaculture in the space"—sustainable systems that nurture creativity and community for the long term.

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