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Ben Roy takes us deep into the evolving landscape of digital art collecting, offering refreshingly nuanced perspectives that challenge conventional Web3 wisdom. Beginning with his early fascination with Decentraland in 2019, Ben shares his journey from Pokemon card collector to thoughtful NFT observer, revealing how his collecting philosophy centers more on artistic innovation than blockchain specifications.

The conversation explores what makes Web3 special – its relative meritocracy compared to traditional industries, offering greater opportunities for those willing to put in the work. Ben likens it to "playing in the European basketball league versus the NBA," where the less professionalized environment creates higher upside for dedicated participants. This accessibility represents one of the space's most promising aspects, potentially democratizing opportunities for creators and collectors alike.

We dive into Ben's vision for digital art's future, where collecting becomes normalized at accessible price points, with intuitive display options both online and physically. However, he candidly acknowledges the challenges posed by lingering expectations from the 2021 hype cycle, when astronomical returns created unrealistic financial standards that the space is still reconciling.

Most compelling is Ben's perspective on the untapped potential of community building through networked collections. Unlike traditional art collecting's solitary experience, digital art enables community formation among collectors who appreciate the same creator – a fundamental differentiator that could reshape artist-collector relationships. His thoughtful examination of supply considerations, pricing mechanisms, and the overemphasis on blockchain provenance provides collectors with frameworks for evaluating digital art beyond technical specifications.

Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that balances practical collecting wisdom with forward-thinking optimism about digital art's potential to build meaningful connections between artists and their audiences. Follow Ben's work on his Liquid Culture podcast and monthly newsletter, where he continues exploring the fascinating intersection of technology, ownership, and creative expression.

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Me Llamo Matt brings his unique perspective as an entrepreneur, investor, and founder of the Me Llamo Art Foundation to an engaging conversation about the evolution of digital ownership. What begins with his personal journey from crypto skepticism to NFT advocacy opens the door to profound insights about value, patience, and human connection in the digital age.

Matt's storytelling shines when he discusses his dream of living on an Italian lake with an antique wooden boat, revealing how our digital-focused community still craves authentic experiences shared with loved ones. His advice to "take care of yourself before taking care of others" offers a refreshing counterbalance to the always-on nature of Web3, while his observation that "great leaders follow themselves" celebrates the independent thinking that drives innovation.

Drawing fascinating parallels between the evolution of music consumption, books, cash transactions, and now art ownership, Matt builds a compelling case for digital property as legitimate property. "Just wait," he encourages those skeptical about NFT display limitations, predicting that technological advances will soon make our early collections look "phenomenal" and historically significant.

The conversation takes an unexpectedly moving turn when Matt connects the Shawshank Redemption quote "Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies" to the current state of Web3. In a market that tests patience, his passionate belief in hope as our guiding force resonates deeply with anyone who's weathered the ups and downs of emerging technologies.

From his early baseball card trading savvy to his surprising poker skills and the meaningful work of the Me Llamo Art Foundation, Matt exemplifies how traditional values of community, integrity, and strategic patience translate perfectly into the digital frontier. Connect with the foundation on Twitter @MellamoArt to support their mission of creating diverse and inclusive spaces for artists.

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Digital ownership through blockchain transcends the basic concept of "buying JPEGs" - it represents a fundamental shift in how we interact with digital assets and communities. In this riveting conversation with Shatt, we explore how his background in gaming provided the perfect foundation for understanding NFT value propositions from day one.

"Follow your passions even if others don't give a shit" stands as the guiding philosophy that helped Shatt navigate the complex world of digital collecting. Unlike many who chase influencer recommendations or trending projects, Shatt's approach centers on finding art that personally resonates - whether that's animated pieces that evoke emotional responses comparable to Pixar films or works that document the cultural evolution of Web3 itself.

The episode delves into the mechanisms of artist discovery in a space still lacking robust curation systems. From examining collections of established collectors to participating in curated drops like Click Create, Shatt shares practical wisdom for finding quality amid the noise. Particularly enlightening is his focus on artists who persist through bear markets - a signal of authentic artistic commitment versus opportunistic participation.

We witness a collector's evolution through Shatt's hilarious recounting of his first Bored Ape purchase - sitting on his front lawn afterward, beer in hand, wondering "I don't know what I just did. It's either really stupid or really smart." This candid moment perfectly captures the leap of faith many early adopters experienced.

Beyond collecting, the conversation explores how Discord voice chats create unprecedented access to knowledge sharing across experience levels, allowing newcomers to connect directly with experienced collectors and builders. This flattened social structure represents one of Web3's most transformative yet underappreciated aspects.

Join us for this deep dive into authentic collecting philosophy, artist appreciation, and community building that goes far beyond surface-level trends. Whether you're a seasoned collector or NFT-curious, Shatt's perspectives offer valuable guidance for navigating this evolving landscape with intention and authenticity.

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A serendipitous camera loan from his father changed everything for Ryan Koopmans, redirecting his path from architecture school to becoming an acclaimed lens-based artist whose work graces the pages of Vogue, GQ, and Architectural Digest. This fascinating twist of fate ultimately brought Koopmans full circle, as architecture became the primary subject of his photography for over a decade.

During our conversation, Koopmans reveals the profound impact NFTs have had on his perspective as a digital photographer. "What stood out most was the whole notion of digital ownership," he explains, describing the revolutionary concept of establishing "originals" for digital works—something previously impossible for digital photographers who lacked the equivalent of a film negative. This fundamental shift, combined with the royalty structure that supports artists beyond initial sales, transformed how Koopmans views his creative output and its place in the world.

Wisdom gleaned from years of artistic persistence permeates our discussion. "You gotta crawl before you ball," Koopmans shares, recounting advice from painter Nate Loman during his early days in New York. This philosophy of patience and embracing the grind resonates throughout his career journey—from grocery store produce manager to globally exhibited artist. His personal connection to peregrine falcons, which nest atop skyscrapers and represent "the perfect combination of form and function," perfectly mirrors his artistic approach to urban landscapes captured in his 2020 book "Vantage."

The future holds exciting developments for Koopmans, including an immersive photogrammetry project allowing viewers to virtually step inside his photographs, and a groundbreaking collaboration with the AI artist Botto. As we discuss the evolving relationship between NFT art and traditional institutions, his optimism for the space shines through, celebrating the community of artists, collectors and enthusiasts committed to pushing the boundaries of what art can be in the digital age.

Ready to experience more conversations with innovative creators? Subscribe to NorCal and Chill for weekly episodes exploring the intersection of art, technology, and the creative mindset.

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Pravijn takes us on a fascinating journey through his evolution in the NFT space, revealing the moment digital ownership finally "clicked" for him. As someone who had always been bothered by purchasing digital books, movies, and music without truly owning them, the blockchain's promise of verifiable ownership resonated deeply once he understood it.

Beyond just collecting, Pravijn shares how Web3 has given him something his previous tech career couldn't – genuine community. "I never really had a social community that much," he reflects, contrasting the forced interactions of traditional workplaces with the chosen connections of crypto communities. These relationships extend beyond digital interactions, culminating in real-world connections over "burgers and beers."

The conversation takes an unexpected turn when Pravijn reveals his double life – maintaining complete separation between his Web3 identity and his "normie world" existence. When family and friends mention crypto, he playfully feigns ignorance: "Is that like Bitcoin? Is Minecraft an NFT?" This compartmentalization offers him freedom to explore his digital identity without the judgment often directed at crypto enthusiasts.

Perhaps most thought-provoking is Pravijn's insight into language barriers within the NFT space. Despite the visual nature of digital art, he notes how our communities remain English-centric, potentially missing incredible artistic voices. "There are artists who won't join Twitter Spaces because they use language translators for all their tweets and DMs," he explains, highlighting an accessibility challenge that AI and translation tools might eventually overcome.

As a DECA advocate, Pravijn continues to build bridges within the space, whether through thoughtful art collection philosophies (where he argues editions deserve the same quality as one-of-ones) or through finding unexpected connections via memes, anime references, and literary quotes. His journey reminds us that in Web3, we're not just collecting assets – we're building new ways of connecting, creating, and defining ourselves.

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Welcome to a fascinating exploration of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), where we delve into their evolution from niche collectibles to mainstream commodities shaping our culture and economy. In this episode, hosted by the ever-curious team, we are joined by Tony Herrera, a seasoned veteran in the NFT realm. As we discuss his journey and experiences from the early days of this digital frontier, listeners gain valuable insights into how perceptions of NFTs have changed over time, influencing the ways we understand value, creativity, and ownership in a digitally connected world.

We dive into the exciting potential of blending physical and digital art forms, examining how technological advancements have enabled artists and collectors to create rich, immersive experiences. Tony shares his ambitious vision for integrating innovative tools that enhance the relationship between physical and digital collectibles, paving the way for a new landscape of engagement through NFC technology. Furthermore, we shine a spotlight on social impact initiatives driven by the crypto community, emphasizing the critical need for inclusivity in this emerging Web3 space. As Tony articulates his commitment to helping underrepresented groups access and thrive in this landscape, we explore the profound societal implications of this digital revolution.

The episode culminates in visionary discussions about what the next five years hold for NFTs. Tony predicts that digital tokens will become an integral part of everyday transactions, allowing people to seamlessly engage with brands without traditional financial barriers. Through exciting projects like the TGN Arcade, we learn how gamification can play a pivotal role in enthusiastically onboarding users into the world of Web3. Make sure to tune in for a thought-provoking conversation about the future of NFTs, their potential for innovation, and the promise of a more inclusive digital landscape. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts on the evolving world of NFTs!

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Join us for an insightful exploration with photographer Joey L., who takes us on a captivating journey through his artistic evolution. From an early passion for toy dinosaurs that ignited his creativity to becoming a renowned figure in the photography world, Joey shares the pivotal experiences that shaped his career. With clients such as Jennifer Lawrence and Robert De Niro, he illustrates the delicate balance between commercial success and personal expression in art.

In this episode, we dive deep into the complexities of NFTs, hear Joey's candid thoughts on the emerging digital asset landscape, and understand the significance of fostering personal connections when creating impactful images. Through his storytelling, Joey emphasizes the importance of following one’s long-term vision in an ever-changing industry filled with rapid trends.

As he shares valuable advice for aspiring artists looking to enter the NFT space, listeners are encouraged to appreciate their journey while remaining true to themselves. Joey's humble yet inspiring perspective makes this episode a treasure trove of insights for anyone passionate about art and photography. Don't miss out—tune in to discover what it truly means to forge a unique path in the world of creativity and witness how the art community continues to evolve.

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Join us for an exciting conversation with the incredibly talented digital artist, Hayden Clay, as he shares his journey from a curious child to a full-time digital artist. Listen to Hayden's humorous tale of a memorable encounter with a cuttlefish and his deep appreciation for cultural diversity through food, especially curry. We'll explore the intersection of art and technology, discussing the transformative power of NFTs and how Hayden's experiences in biochemistry and software development have enriched his artistic journey.

Get ready to explore the world through a photographer's lens as we discuss Hayden's passion for photography and how it has revolutionized his view of the world. With a fondness for vibrant global cultures, Hayden talks about his dream of living in places like Hong Kong and California. As Hayden prepares for his upcoming trip to Japan, he shares his excitement about visiting camera shops and the challenges of capturing moments on the move, whether with professional equipment or a smartphone.

The excitement continues as we delve into Hayden's upcoming art show in Seoul, South Korea, set to open on March 29th. Discover the popularity of his suburban art pieces and the challenges collectors face in acquiring them. The conversation highlights our shared love for art and crypto, and wraps up with Hayden's eagerness to meet in New York and indulge in some homemade biscuits. Tune in for an inspiring chat that showcases the intersection of art, technology, and a vibrant community.

https://x.com/haydclay

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Los Angeles-based digital artist Post Wook joins our podcast to share her fascinating artistic journey and how she found her niche in surreal landscape collage art. Transitioning from traditional mediums like painting and drawing to collage in 2007, she discovered a new realm of self-expression that was both liberating and transformative. Post Wook candidly discusses her initial skepticism toward the NFT market, a skepticism that quickly turned into curiosity after witnessing a friend's success. Her story highlights the importance of community, as she found camaraderie and inspiration on platforms like Clubhouse, where art and technology enthusiasts converge.

In our conversation, Post Wook opens up about the personal routines that keep her grounded, including her unique approach to stress-free mornings and the practicalities of managing crypto assets with hardware wallets. She shares her thoughts on the future of digital art, decentralization, and the intriguing challenges of copyright and open-source content in the evolving web three landscape. As we explore her artistic evolution, it's clear that Post Wook's journey is marked by a harmonious blend of art and tech, underscored by a genuine commitment to authenticity and meaningful connections in the crypto art space.

We also explore the deeper aspects of building relationships within the NFT community and beyond. Post Wook emphasizes the importance of distinguishing genuine connections from transactional interactions, drawing parallels to a collaborative startup culture where shared visions foster lasting bonds. Her love for California's diverse beauty and her aspirations for sustainable homesteading add a personal touch to the episode. Meanwhile, her adventurous involvement in space-themed projects, including sending personal audio files into space, showcases her innovative spirit. Join us for an inspiring conversation that paints a vivid picture of a life where art, technology, and dreams intersect.

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Join us on a fascinating journey with Erick Snowfro, a visionary in the digital art and NFT space, as we uncover the evolution of crypto art and its integration into modern culture. Hear firsthand how a white elephant gift exchange involved a CryptoPunk, adding a playful layer to the serious business of art collecting. Erick reveals his initial skepticism about NFTs and shares insights on the emerging concept of "fidgetals," a hybrid of physical and digital art, while emphasizing the importance of preserving digital purity.

Travel back to simpler times with us as we reminisce about childhood collections, from comic cards to memorabilia, and explore how these experiences shape our understanding of digital collectibles today. Erickf and I discuss the initial hurdles and eventual embrace of digital rarity, highlighted by platforms like NBA Top Shot and CryptoKitties. We’ll take you through the vibrant community interactions on platforms like Discord and examine how digital art is breaking barriers, making art ownership more accessible than ever.

As we look toward the future, Erick provides a visionary perspective on the intersection of digital assets with fashion and physical products, imagining a world where digital art is as accessible as picking up a print at IKEA. With a focus on balancing exclusivity and accessibility, we explore the promising potential of digital art in consumer experiences, from personalized collections to broader institutional adoption. All this is wrapped up in the playful and relaxed vibe that defines the NorCal and Shill Podcast, making this episode a must-listen for art enthusiasts and digital explorers alike.

https://x.com/ArtOnBlockchain

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