Pioneering generative artist propelled by personal tragedy — Matt Kane, NFT Creator – Cointelegraph Magazine
Matt Kane is a traditional artist who has embraced the digital revolution by exploring the world of blockchain art. His collection “Gazers,” which was launched in December 2021, is considered a pioneer among generative artists. Kane, a former software developer, has always been experimental with different artistic mediums, including physical canvas. However, the limitations of the physical art world led him to consider digital art as a way to better express his vision.
Kane’s interest in NFTs (non-fungible tokens) was sparked when he came across an article about them on Quora in 2017, just before the launch of CryptoPunks. He immediately saw the potential of NFTs to sell digital artwork and saw them as a way to transmit files and ownership of his creations. However, it wasn’t until May 2019 that Kane minted his first NFT on SuperRare.
Kane’s journey into the world of digital art hasn’t been without its challenges. In 2013, he suffered a personal tragedy when a close friend died by suicide. This event left him devastated and grappling with his own suicidal thoughts. He eventually found solace in coding, using it as a distraction from his emotional pain. Coding became a tool for expression, allowing him to build a future where he could safely express himself again.
The loss of his friend had a profound impact on Kane’s artistic path. He credits the tragedy for pushing him towards digital art and believes that he may not have pursued this path if it hadn’t been for that event. While he acknowledges the conflicts that come with success and the loss of a loved one, he also recognizes the importance of his art in marking time and resonating with others.
Kane’s most well-known collection, “Gazers,” draws inspiration from the caveman days and acts as a lunar calendar for the blockchain. With the moon as its centerpiece, the collection reflects our collective goals in crypto and our love for color theory, astronomy, and generative art. Each Gazer forms a unique color theory, with different rules and variations changing monthly. The project has been a success, with over 8,800 ETH in secondary sales on OpenSea.
Matt Kane’s journey from traditional artist to digital art pioneer is a testament to the power of embracing new technologies and mediums. His exploration of blockchain art has allowed him to push boundaries and create art that transcends the limitations of the physical world. Kane’s personal story and unique artistic style have made him a prominent figure in the digital art scene, and his work continues to captivate audiences around the world.
