"I think the hardest part...is just kind of acknowledging that I may not be able to please everybody all the time but also trying to find a way to please as many people as possible because we need to make this a positive space if we want more people to come in." - Benny "Redbeard" Gross

Introduction

‍The realm of digital art is often likened to a devil's casino, where creators navigate a complex landscape of highs and lows, pressure, and potential. In a compelling panel discussion hosted by Rug Radio, three influential figures in the digital art world—Sam Spratt, Benny "Redbeard" Gross, and Erick Calderon—delved into the challenges and opportunities of creating a digital art renaissance within this unique environment.

Panelists

1. Sam Spratt: Renowned for his creation of Luci and an artist with a background in Commercial Art, Sam shared his journey of evolving from a focus on monetary metrics to finding deeper meaning and purpose in his art.
2. Benny "Redbeard "Gross: A patron of the arts and a key figure in the digital art space, Benny's perspective provided insights into the complexities of navigating the art market and the importance of understanding diverse motivations within the community.
3. Erick "Snowfro" Calderon: As the CEO and Founder of Art Blocks, Erick's innovative contributions to the digital art world have reshaped the landscape, demonstrating the power of collaboration and community in driving artistic growth.

Key Points

• Pressure of Significance: The panelists acknowledged the weight of their influence and the pressure to create something meaningful in the digital art world. Despite their individual journeys and backgrounds, they shared a common struggle with feelings of inadequacy and the desire to please a diverse audience.
• Embracing Collaboration: Through candid conversations and mutual respect, the panelists emphasized the importance of collaboration in navigating the challenges of the digital art space. By learning from each other's experiences and perspectives, they found strength and inspiration to continue their creative endeavors.
• Finding Purpose: Despite the ever-present pressures, the panelists highlighted the profound sense of purpose they derived from their work. Whether it was inspiring others, building meaningful relationships, or pushing the boundaries of artistic expression, they found fulfillment in contributing to the digital art renaissance.

Conclusion

‍As the conversation concluded, it became evident that the devil's casino of digital art is not merely a place of uncertainty and risk but also a space of immense opportunity and growth. Through resilience, collaboration, and a shared commitment to artistic excellence, creators like Sam Spratt, Benny Redbeard Gross, and Erick Calderon are shaping the future of digital art and paving the way for a new era of creativity and innovation. As they continue their journey, their insights serve as guiding lights for aspiring artists and patrons, reminding us all of the transformative power of art in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

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Watch the full talk here