The podcast discusses the evolution of art with technology, debates on inventing vs. remixing, generative art on blockchains, NFTs, artists adapting to new technology platforms like Instagram, and the intersection of art, technology, and business. It also explores the fusion of art and technology in the crypto art world, NFT art on blockchain networks, expressive possibilities of blockchains, and challenges at the intersection of legacy and digital art worlds.
Artists adapt to new technologies, blurring boundaries between invention and remixing in contemporary art.
Technology reshapes art landscape, exploring dichotomies of commercialism vs artistry and mainstream vs outsider art.
Simon Denny bridges museum traditions with crypto art, viewing entrepreneurship as an aesthetic influenced by tech encounters.
Deep dives
The Intersection of Work and Purpose in the Changing Nature of Jobs
As work evolves, individuals are prompted to adapt by becoming more flexible, curious, and connected to purpose. The Hello Monday podcast assists listeners in navigating career challenges like negotiating salaries, finding fulfilling jobs, and combatting burnout.
Technology's Influence on the Evolution of Art
The podcast explores how technology, from browsers and iPhones to generative AI art and blockchain technology, has reshaped the art landscape. Discussions delve into the dichotomies between invention and remixing, commercialism versus artistry, and mainstream canon versus outsider art, highlighting the dynamic nature of contemporary art.
Simon Denny's Artistic Journey Blending Traditional and Crypto Realms
Simon Denny, a global artist merging traditional and crypto art, emphasizes creating pieces at the intersection of museum and crypto worlds. His specialization lies in bridging art history with emerging technologies, drawing inspiration from the people shaping digital platforms.
Embracing Optimism and Multidisciplinary Ventures in the Technology Field
Denny's unique perspective on entrepreneurship as an aesthetic is influenced by his encounters within the tech sphere, where he found a convergence of economics, philosophy, and security. By incorporating art into various media and contexts, he navigates diverse paths, blending museum traditions with crypto art innovation, inspired by the cultural shifts within entrepreneurial subcultures.
Exploring NFTs and Evolving Art Forms
The podcast delves into the concept of NFTs and evolving art forms, highlighting how certain NFTs have a programmed lifespan and self-destruct if not transferred, emphasizing the need for transfer to sustain their existence. Specifically, the discussion revolves around Sarah Friend's Life Forms project, where NFT properties evolve with every transfer, akin to an organism, reflecting changes in the owner's collection.
Intersecting Legacies and Digital Art Worlds
The episode explores the intersection between legacy art and digital realms, pointing out the continuity and value in understanding historical artistic movements. It also touches on the potential for digital artists to appreciate legacy artworks that mirror contemporary gestures. Additionally, a nuanced approach is suggested for crypto-focused individuals to connect with the legacy art world, promoting a deeper appreciation for diverse artistic expressions across different eras.
We know that technology has changed art, and that artists have evolved with every new technology — it’s a tale as old as humanity, moving from cave paintings to computers. Underlying these movements are endless debates around inventing versus remixing; between commercialism and art; between mainstream canon and fringe art; whether we’re living in an artistic monoculture now (the answer may surprise you); and much much more.
So in this new episode featuring Berlin-based contemporary artist Simon Denny -- in conversation with a16z crypto editor in chief Sonal Chokshi -- we discuss all of the above debates. We also cover how artists experimented with the emergence of new technology platforms like the web browser, the iPhone, Instagram and social media; to how generative art found its “native” medium on blockchains, why NFTs; and other art movements.
Denny also thinks of entrepreneurial ideas -- from Peter Thiel's to Chris Dixon's Read Write Own -- as an "aesthetic"; and thinks of technology artifacts (like NSA sketches!) as art -- reflecting all of these in his works across various mediums and contexts. How has technology changed art, and more importantly, how have artists changed with technology? How does art change our place in the world, or span beyond space? It's about optimism, and seeing things anew... all this and more in this episode.
As a reminder: none of this is investment, business, legal, or tax advice; please see a16z.com/disclosures for more important information, including a link to a list of our investments.
SHOW NOTES:
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
