VIDEO
Transforming large steel sculptures into NFTs
Award-winning sculpturist Ben Pearce wanted to increase exposure to his newest public series, PaperPals, and dabble in a new medium: NFTs. Together, with Rupert Enberg of Enbergstudio, N4 helped Pearce transform his four origami-style animals, sculpted from steel, into individual NFTs.
“I was driven to offer viewers something they couldn't get when seeing the physical sculptures. Only a small handful of artists are currently transforming their work into NFTs. We are at the onset, so it's a special thing to be part of.”, Pearce shared.
Details
Minding the gap between tangible art and its digital evolution
While the physical depictions each embodied unique and distinct personas, we wanted to add another layer to the series that would encourage alternative interpretations. However, due respect had to be paid to Pearce’s original intentions while delicately balancing these new possibilities that emerged as we transformed his sculptures into NFTs.
We acknowledged that the inception of each medium sat at opposite ends of the spectrum but had to ultimately converge in order for viewers to draw parallels between the exhibits, independent of whether or not they’d had the opportunity to experience PaperPals in person.
Different routes to the same destination
Bringing Pearce’s work to life didn’t just involve creating NFTs; the 360 campaign included illustrating the PaperPals story through web, video, and media outreach. N4 chronicled the entire journey, from bended steel to virtual habitats.
Reaching the final goal required a collection of techniques — traditional artistry, experimenting the technology, and multi-media storytelling.
An impactful nostalgia-driven experience
Despite the physical sculptures being made from solid steel, Pearce managed to maintain an air of whimsy which we wanted to include in each NFT. From this notion, we used layers of colour, movement, and texture to create depth within each PaperPals’ environment.
The first of its kind
Purchasing one of Pearce’s digital artworks not only offers verification of authenticity but also distinguishes owners as inaugural participants in Aotearoa’s NFT art scene.
words
“Only a small handful of artists are currently transforming their work into NFTs. We are at the onset, so it's a special thing to be part of”
Ben Pearce
Sculpture Artist
, N4
“We wanted to get away from the current low-fi NFT look. We aimed to create something complementary to Ben’s work, whimsically beautiful, and of museum quality”
Rupert Enberg
Head of Visual Innovation, N4 Studio
Rupert Enberg
Head of Visual Innovation
, N4