Efforts to digitise artistic expression for global market

Although the word NFTs or Non-Fungible Tokens might not be familiar to the average Barbadian, work is underway to build a strong community of digital artists to take advantage of the global opportunities available to them.

The work of various genres of artistic expression – singing, painting, poetry and dance for example – may be digitised or created as digital art and sold by way of Blockchain technology on a global market.

It is this technology that is used to secure the items or art which are promoted on international websites.

NFTs is a rapidly emerging market where millions of dollars are pouring in with potential benefits to Barbadian artistes and Barbados’ economy.

Digital art designer and curator Zoe Osborne noted in an interview: “With digital art, whether that be art that was created digitally or art that has been digitised, the global market is at the fingertips of the artist. It is therefore important for artists to remain aware of the trends, market places and social media platforms that their work can thrive on.”

“Engaging with the Caribbean art community such as Artists Alliance and Mahogany Culture as well as groups that have a focus on digital art and education such as Holders Land, are important at this time,” she said.

Osborne added: “We have always been a community-driven society and this time of digital art should be no different. Caribbean artists such as Alex Gibson and Rodel Warner, to name a few, are examples of artists that have succeeded to navigate the space while contributing to building community.”

During the just-concluded UNCTAD 15 international trade conference, Osborne curated the second NFT exhibition in Barbados. The work of 24 artists was showcased. Prior to this, Osborne organised the first NFT exhibition of eight artists with the support of the Embassy of Argentina.

“As we learn how best to navigate this digital world, we must also spread the word so that we can collectively move towards prosperity for all,” Osborne suggested.  (HH)