In the world of digital art collectibles, particularly those sold as NFTs, licensing models play a crucial role in defining what the buyer can and cannot do with the artwork they purchase. These models include non-exclusive, exclusive, and royalty-based licenses, and they are evolving to fit the unique properties of NFTs.
But beyond traditional licensing models, a new mechanism called token-gating is emerging, offering enhanced control over access and usage rights through blockchain technology. Let’s explore how these licensing models work and how token-gating can further protect and manage digital art.
Types of Licensing Models:
Non-Exclusive License:
The buyer has the right to use the digital art but does not prevent the artist from selling the same work to other buyers or under other licenses. This is common in stock photography and open editions.
Exclusive License:
The buyer gains sole rights to use the digital artwork, meaning the artist typically agrees not to sell or license the same piece to anyone else for the same usage rights.
Commercial Rights vs. Personal Use:
The buyer may be granted personal use rights, allowing them to display or enjoy the artwork privately but not use it for profit.
Alternatively, the buyer could receive commercial rights, allowing them to use the artwork in advertising, merchandise, or other business ventures.
Important Note: If you grant commercial rights, you can also ask for a royalty on each item or product sold using your artwork. For instance, the buyer can sell merchandise like t-shirts or mugs, but a percentage of the revenue from each sale would go back to you, the artist. This can be automated through smart contracts embedded in the NFT.
Royalty-Based License:
In a royalty-based license, the buyer can use or sell the artwork, but the artist retains the right to a percentage of future sales or uses. This is particularly common in the NFT space, where smart contracts automate royalties on secondary sales.
For example, the artist might receive a 10% royalty every time the NFT is resold on a marketplace.
Can You Sell Other Licenses After an Exclusive License?
The key to whether you can sell other licenses after granting an exclusive license depends on how the NFT smart contract defines the licensing terms:
Exclusive License: If the NFT grants the buyer full, exclusive ownership of rights such as distribution or reproduction, the artwork cannot be sold under any other license. However, exclusive licenses can be scoped. For example, you could sell an exclusive commercial use license while retaining personal or derivative licensing rights for others.
Conditional Exclusivity: Some licenses are time-limited, allowing a buyer exclusive rights for a set period (e.g., one year). Afterward, the artist can sell the artwork under other licensing terms.
Introducing Token-Gating: A Modern Tool for NFTs and Licensing
In addition to traditional licensing models, token-gating has emerged as a powerful tool in the NFT space. Token-gating restricts access to an artwork or its rights to only those who hold a specific NFT, ensuring that licensing terms, such as exclusivity or commercial use, are enforced transparently through blockchain technology.
How Token-Gating Works:
Mint an NFT with Licensing Terms: The artist mints an NFT, embedding or referencing specific licensing terms (e.g., exclusive commercial rights or non-commercial personal use).
Control Access to the Artwork: Only those who hold the NFT have access to the high-resolution artwork or specific usage rights (e.g., the ability to use the artwork on merchandise or in advertising).
Enforce the Licensing Terms: The smart contract can enforce royalty payments on resales, ensuring that the artist receives compensation every time the NFT is sold. Additionally, token-gating can be used to enforce royalties on items or merchandise sold using the artwork if commercial rights are granted.
What Does Full Commercial Rights Mean?
When you grant full commercial rights via token-gating, the buyer can use the artwork to generate revenue. This includes:
Creating and selling merchandise (e.g., t-shirts, mugs).
Using the artwork in marketing and branding.
Creating derivative works and selling them, depending on the agreement.
Common Commercial Uses:
Selling Merchandise: Buyers can print the artwork on various products and sell them for profit.
Advertising and Branding: The artwork can be used in marketing campaigns or as part of brand identity.
Display and Licensing: Buyers can exhibit the artwork or license it for third-party commercial use.
Limitations:
Reselling the Artwork: Even with commercial rights, the buyer may not own the copyright unless explicitly stated in the contract.
Derivative Works: If the contract does not allow for derivative works, the buyer cannot alter the image and sell the modified version.
Practical Example of Token-Gating:
You mint a digital art collectible as an NFT and sell an exclusive commercial license. The buyer gains full commercial rights to use the artwork in advertising, merchandise, or marketing. Through token-gating, only the holder of the NFT can access the high-resolution file or download the artwork for commercial use.
However, you could still offer non-commercial licenses (such as personal display rights) to other buyers, provided this limitation is clearly outlined in the smart contract. The smart contract can also enforce royalties, ensuring you earn a percentage from any future resales of the NFT. Additionally, you could specify a royalty on each item or product sold using the artwork, which ensures you continue to profit from commercial use.
Final Thoughts:
When selling digital art as NFTs, your ability to offer additional licenses depends on the scope of the exclusive rights outlined in the smart contract. By carefully defining these terms and utilizing token-gating, you can continue to monetize your work while assuring buyers of the rights they’re purchasing. Additionally, by implementing royalties on each item sold under a commercial license, artists can continue to profit from the success of their work over time.
Less opportunities for my art now than I used to receive, and I get it, everyone gets tired of what sticks around. But that’s the thing about me. I stick around. Stubbornly. Obsessively. With growth and change and good times & bad. Just a reminder for when you look back later. – @ClaireSilver12
Claire Silver’s words resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the unwavering dedication and evolution that define an artist’s journey. Art appreciation is not an innate trait; it is cultivated and nurtured over time. Reflecting on my own life, I realize how my creativity has been a constant companion, shaped by experiences and the environment around me.
From my earliest memories, creativity was a cornerstone of my existence. Music transported me to distant places, and books allowed me to travel without leaving my room. My neighborhood was a playground of imagination where we put on plays for our parents, transforming ordinary evenings into magical performances. We roamed the streets within a six-block radius, a tight-knit community where the call for dinner was our cue to return home. The streetlights served as our curfew, marking the end of our adventures for the day.
These formative experiences instilled in me a deep appreciation for the arts. Art appreciation and creativity flourish in a society that respects and values the creative process. However, this respect must be actively fostered. It begins in our homes, schools, and communities, where children are encouraged to explore their imaginations and express themselves freely, without a tech device in their hands.
Creativity has always been woven into every part of my life. In high school, I was on the danceline and in the drama club, embodying movement and storytelling. I played on the softball team, swam competitively, and hit the tennis courts, finding artistic expression even in sports. My love for knowledge drew me to the library club throughout my education, where I found joy in being surrounded by books and ideas.
Technology has played a transformative role in expanding the reach of artists. No longer confined to local geographic areas, artists can now share their work with a global audience. This democratization of art has opened up new avenues for creative expression and appreciation. Yet, it also comes with challenges. The sheer volume of content can make it difficult for individual artists to stand out and be recognized.
Despite these challenges, the persistence and evolution of an artist are what truly matter. Like Claire Silver, I believe in sticking around—stubbornly, obsessively—through growth and change, good times and bad. The journey of an artist is not a sprint but a marathon, requiring resilience and an unwavering commitment to one’s craft.
As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of the art world, it is crucial to remember that art appreciation is a journey, not a destination. It requires continuous nurturing and an open mind. By fostering a culture that values creativity, we can ensure that the arts remain a vital and cherished part of our society.
In looking back, I hope to see a world where art is celebrated, where the creative spirit is honored, and where every artist finds their place. Until then, I will continue to create, to evolve, and to stick around—just like I always have.
✨ Happy Holidays to everyone! 🎉 As we reflect on 2023’s groundbreaking art and anticipate the trends of 2024, I invite you to watch an enlightening video, “Contemporary Art: Modern Masterpieces Or Shameless Cash Grabs? | Perspective.”
This thought-provoking video peels back the layers of the contemporary art world, offering an insider’s look at the commercial forces behind its glamorous façade. It’s an eye-opening exploration for anyone interested in the intersection of artistry and commerce.
What were your standout art moments in 2023? Join the conversation and share your insights! Also, mark your calendars for this week’s #LearnWithVitruveo, where we’ll revisit the significant developments of the past year in art and delve into what 2024 might hold for us. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage and get inspired for the upcoming year! Join #LearnWithVitruveohttps://twitter.com/i/spaces/1yoKMwgNpEzJQ?s=20…
The art, digital collectibles, and NFT space in 2023 experienced significant developments, marked by the increasing involvement of traditional art institutions, the introduction of innovative features, and evolving trends in NFT utility and security.
Here are a few highlights to think about:
Sotheby’s Impact on the Digital Art Market: Sotheby’s, a renowned fine arts auction house, reported nearly $35 million in digital art sales in 2023, a testament to the growing importance of this sector. They conducted over 25 auctions focused on digital art and launched an on-chain marketplace for the secondary trade of NFTs, Sotheby’s Metaverse. The auction of Dmitry Chernyak’s NFT ‘Ringers #879’ for $6.2 million set a new record for an individual digital artwork.
NFT Market Revival and Integration into Broader Platforms: The resurgence in the NFT space, energized by a Bitcoin bull run, saw the digital art market’s trade volume near $1 billion, highlighting increasing transaction values. Sotheby’s, stepping into this space with a Bitcoin Ordinals collection, mirrors the heightened interest in digital art. This development paves the way for platforms like VTRU Stream, envisioned as a Spotify for visual art. VTRU Stream aims to democratize art appreciation through ad-free sharing, enabling a wider audience to engage with digital art where artists get paid. This concept echoes the spirit of Renaissance patronage, fostering a community where emerging creators are supported through micro-patronage, bringing art closer to people who might not be familiar with the intricacies of crypto and NFTs but are eager to celebrate and appreciate art in accessible, digital formats.
AI Art Generators’ Influence on NFTs:AI art generators, which became mainstream in 2022, continued to significantly impact the NFT market in 2023. They democratized access to digital art, allowing anyone to create and own unique AI-generated art pieces. This trend led to an increased supply of unique artworks and attracted a new wave of collectors interested in AI-generated art.
Brands Embracing NFTs for Unique Experiences: Major brands and celebrities increasingly utilized NFTs to engage with their audiences in 2023. Brands like Starbucks, Porsche, and McDonald’s experimented with NFTs in their reward systems and marketing strategies, using them to create unique digital collectibles and experiences. This trend indicated that NFTs were becoming a vital tool for brands to build deeper relationships with their customers.
Tangible NFT Experiences: The year saw a shift towards offering tangible experiences with NFT purchases. Digital artists, brands, and celebrities began including real-world experiences like meet-and-greets,VIP passes to events, and physical merchandise along with the sale of digital art pieces. This approach added a layer of value to NFTs, combining digital ownership with exclusive real-life experiences.
In summary, 2023 was a significant year for art, digital collectibles, and NFTs, marked by major auction houses like Sotheby’s embracing digital art, the rise of AI-generated art in the NFT space, brands leveraging NFTs for customer engagement, and the introduction of tangible experiences in NFT offerings. These developments illustrate the evolving landscape of digital art and collectibles, highlighting their growing importance and potential in the art world and beyond.
In the rapidly evolving digital art world 🌐, the significance of standardized metadata cannot be overstated. Metadata acts as the digital DNA 🧬 of creation, offering vital information about the artwork, including the artist’s name, the date of creation, and the subject matter. This not only aids in preserving the artistic legacy but also plays a crucial role in enhancing discoverability and proper attribution in the digital realm. With advancements like the Vitruveo blockchain, creators are now able to incorporate metadata using industry-standard tools such as the Linked Art Data Model. This integration ensures that artwork is not only seen but also bought, thanks to optimized cataloging and better searchability.
The Legacy of Documentation: A Personal Reflection 📸
In our family’s history, each photograph in our albums is a precious thread, interwoven with memories. My mother, a meticulous archivist, always wrote on the back of each photo, understanding that memories fade over time. Her practice highlighted the importance of capturing details in the moment to ensure clarity and truth in the future.
This practice finds its digital counterpart in the world of art, where metadata serves as a modern method of documentation. Using tools like the ‘file info’ feature in Photoshop, artists can embed vital information into their creations, echoing my mother’s diligent documentation approach.
Embracing Modern Tools: The Digital Age Advantage 🚀
The digital age has streamlined this documentation process. Smartphones automatically embed data like timestamps and geographical locations into photos, adding authenticity and precision. Similarly, platforms like Vitruveo’s blockchain offer creators a way to embed standardized metadata directly onto the blockchain, ensuring the longevity and discoverability of their digital creations.
Conclusion: Empowering Creators with Metadata 💡
The act of adding metadata is a testament to the foresight and responsibility of artists. It bridges the creator’s present intentions with the future’s understanding. As creators, utilizing all available tools, including blockchain technology like Vitruveo, to lay a strong foundation for our work is essential. Such practices not only secure our creations’ legacy but also ensure they remain accessible and appreciated in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Stay Connected and Informed 🌟
Don’t miss out on the latest developments in web3 and art! Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on all the exciting advancements. And for a more personal touch, connect with me on Twitter at https://twitter.com/vlaneART. Let’s explore this vibrant world of digital art together! 🌍✨
In the constantly evolving world of digital art, there’s a fresh approach that allows artists to both monetize their existing work and create an engaging experience for collectors—token-gating within tiered art collections. This innovative system doesn’t require artists to create new work but instead lets them turn existing pieces or byproducts of their creative process into valuable collectibles, much like a sawmill turning leftover wood into particle board. By doing this, artists can monetize their artwork in a way that feels natural and sustainable, rather than forcing them to produce more content.
Understanding Tiers in Digital Art Collections
Tiers within a digital art collection are different levels of artwork that provide varying levels of access, exclusivity, or perks to collectors. Each tier represents a different type of engagement with the artist’s work, allowing collectors to choose their level of participation while maintaining the integrity of the artist’s creative process.
Types of Tiers in a Collection:
Ultra-Rare (Exclusive Access):
These are the most exclusive pieces in a collection, offering collectors unique access to the artist’s finest work or exclusive experiences. This could include:
Access to high-resolution digital artwork that’s not available elsewhere.
Invitations to private virtual or in-person galleries.
Behind-the-scenes content about the creative process.
Rare (Special Editions):
These are limited but more widely available than ultra-rare items. These digital art pieces may offer unique perks such as:
Access to early releases of new collections or artwork.
Invitations to artist Q&A sessions or community events.
Common (Standard Editions):
These are the most accessible artworks in a collection and are perfect for newer collectors. These pieces could include:
Digital downloads of artwork that can be displayed on personal devices.
Discounts on future artwork purchases.
Access to community-based rewards like group challenges or voting on future artistic themes.
Token-Gating Artwork Within the Same Collection
By token-gating, artists can control access to different parts of their collection based on the artwork or digital collectible a collector holds. The artwork itself acts as the key, unlocking additional content, benefits, or future artwork drops. For instance, collectors who hold ultra-rare or rare pieces could gain access to hidden, bonus artwork, or early previews of the next collection, making their experience more valuable.
How Token-Gating Enhances the Collector Experience
Progression Through Tiers:
Collectors could “level up” by purchasing more artwork from a single collection, unlocking greater perks. For example, owning both ultra-rare and rare pieces may unlock access to a completely new, unreleased piece of artwork.
Easter Eggs and Hidden Rewards:
Artists could gamify the experience by hiding secret artwork or collectibles that can only be accessed once the collector holds a certain combination of pieces. For example, collectors who hold two specific pieces could unlock a hidden, bonus artwork or gain access to a private event.
Collaboration and Interaction:
Artists can invite token-holders to participate in collaborative projects. For instance, rare and ultra-rare holders could be given the opportunity to vote on the theme of an upcoming artwork or even submit ideas that the artist could integrate into the final piece.
Monetizing What Artists Are Already Doing
The beauty of this system is that it doesn’t require artists to go out of their way to create additional content. Instead, they can monetize their existing process:
Rough drafts, sketches, and concept art—often the byproducts of larger projects—can be packaged as digital collectibles.
Artists can token-gate behind-the-scenes content or create exclusive experiences like virtual studio tours without needing to produce new physical works.
Through the use of royalty systems, artists can even earn a percentage from the resale of their digital artwork or from merchandise created with their art (if commercial rights are granted).
Gamification Without Extra Work
This system also allows for gamification—turning the act of collecting into a fun and engaging process for buyers. By unlocking artwork through progression or combination of collectibles, artists can create a dynamic relationship with their collectors without needing to constantly produce new content.
Collectors are naturally incentivized to explore the artist’s existing body of work, unlocking new layers of value simply by holding multiple pieces from the same collection. This approach doesn’t require the artist to do more work, but rather to cleverly package and market what they’ve already created.
Conclusion: Monetizing the Creative Process Naturally
By embracing token-gating and tiered digital art collections, artists can create a more interactive and engaging experience for collectors while monetizing the art they are already producing. Artists can sell exclusive content, access to behind-the-scenes moments, and rare digital artwork—all through the same collection—without needing to create new work. This method turns the artist’s creative process into a sustainable income stream while keeping their workload consistent.
In the vast tapestry of artistic legends, Stella Adler stands out not only for her extraordinary contributions to the world of theatre but also for her unyielding belief in the power of storytelling. For artists who find themselves doubting the value of their work or struggling to find their voice, Adler’s legacy is a shining beacon of inspiration.
“Life beats down and crushes the soul, and art reminds you that you have one.” This quote by Adler is a profound testament to the undying spirit of every artist who has ever picked up a brush, a pen, a camera, or taken to the stage. Life, with all its trials, tribulations, and tragedies, can often feel overwhelming. Yet, it’s through art that we rediscover ourselves, rekindle our spirits, and reclaim our identity.
Stella Adler, with her unique methods and deep commitment to acting as an art form, championed the idea that artists are not mere entertainers. They are visionaries who have the power to hold up a mirror to society, reflecting its beauty and flaws. They tell stories that can heal wounds, ignite passions, and inspire change. It’s through these stories we find solace, understanding, and hope.
For every artist feeling despondent, questioning their place in the world, or wondering if their work matters, remember Adler’s words. Art is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. It’s the balm for crushed souls, the fire for dulled spirits, and the voice for silenced hearts.
In today’s rapidly changing world, where noise often drowns out truth, and shadows often obscure light, your art matters more than ever. Like Stella Adler, stand firm in your conviction, embrace your unique voice, and continue to tell your stories. They are the lifeline that connects us, the thread that binds our shared humanity, and the beacon that guides us through the darkest nights.
So, dear artists, let Adler’s legacy inspire you to rise, create, and remind the world of the indomitable spirit that lies within each of us. Because in art, we not only find ourselves but also each other.
Unlocking the Power of Metadata: A Comprehensive Guide for Artists
Welcome to the first article in our series focused on understanding metadata in the art world. Whether you’re new to digital art or a seasoned professional, this series aims to demystify the essential elements that can make or break your art career in the digital age. Keep an eye out for future articles that will delve deeper into this fascinating topic.
Unlocking Metadata for Artists
Metadata is a term that artists, especially in the digital realm, should not overlook. Whether you’re a digital artist, a musician, or a traditional painter, understanding metadata can significantly impact how your art is received, accessed, and even protected.
What is Metadata?
Metadata is essentially “data about data.” It’s generated either automatically or manually when a digital file, be it an artwork or a music track, is created, modified, or deleted. Basic metadata attributes include details such as the author, date of creation, and file size.
Mastering Metadata: How Artists Can Boost Visibility and Protect Their Work
There are primarily three kinds of metadata:
Descriptive Metadata: Helps with indexing and discovery.
Administrative Metadata: Includes information like copyright details.
Structural Metadata: Indicates how different data elements relate to each other.
Navigating Metadata
SEO Importance
Data Organization
Copyright Protection
Sales and Marketing
Community and Networking
Conclusion & Next Article
Metadata is not just a techie term; it’s a tool that can propel your art career to new heights. With the digital world becoming more integrated each day, understanding and leveraging metadata is no longer optional but essential for every artist. Stay tuned for our next article, where we’ll explore the various platforms where artists can effectively USE metadata to their advantage.
Batch resizing images in Photoshop is a time-saving trick that every digital artist, photographer, and design enthusiast should know. Whether you have a batch of photos from your latest photoshoot or a collection of digital art pieces, resizing them all at once can save you a lot of time. Here’s how to do it:
Creating a Resize Action
Before running a batch, you’ll need to create an action for resizing. Here’s how:
Open Photoshop and Load a Sample Image: Open Photoshop and load any image that you can use as a sample for your action.
Navigate to the Actions Panel: Go to Window > Actions to display the Actions panel.
Create a New Action: Click on the New Action icon at the bottom of the Actions panel. Name your action something descriptive, like “Batch Resize.”
Start Recording: Once you’ve named your action, hit the Record button. Photoshop will now record the steps you take.
Resize Your Image: Navigate to Image > Image Size in the top menu. Input your desired dimensions, making sure to keep the “Constrain Proportions” box checked to maintain the aspect ratio of the image.
(Optional) Save the Image: If you want your action to also save the resized image automatically, go to File > Save As and pick your preferred format.
Stop Recording: After you’ve done all the steps, go back to the Actions panel and click the Stop button to finish recording your action.
Running a Batch Job
Now that your action is set up, you can use it to resize a batch of images.
Open Batch Menu: Navigate to File > Automate > Batch in Photoshop.
Set the Source Folder: Select the folder that contains the images you wish to resize.
Choose the Action: In the “Action” dropdown, select the resizing action you created earlier.
Set the Destination Folder: Choose where you want the resized images to be saved.
File Naming: Customize how you want the new files to be named, if desired.
Execute the Batch: Once all settings are in place, click “OK.” Photoshop will automatically resize all the images in your source folder according to the action you created.
And there you have it—a quick and easy way to batch resize images in Photoshop. This guide serves as a great reminder for future projects and a helpful resource for anyone looking to save time in their digital workflow.
In a world where creativity knows no bounds, HUG emerges as a trailblazer, redefining the way artists and collectors connect, collaborate, and celebrate art. Imagine a platform that combines the best features of Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, infused with gamification tools and a genuine commitment to inclusivity. That’s HUG, where art and technology embrace in a warm and welcoming environment.
Founded by the visionary Randi Zuckerberg and empowered by a team of experts like Debbie Soon and Alex Cavoulacos, HUG is more than a social media platform—it’s a thriving community of creative minds, passionately engaging in the Web3 ecosystem.
Why HUG? A Hub for Creativity and Growth
Social Curation: Connect with like-minded artists, explore new avenues of creativity, and showcase your work to a wider audience. HUG’s social curation is all about making meaningful connections and sharing your art with those who truly appreciate it.
Community and Education: Whether you’re an established artist or just starting your journey, HUG offers a plethora of educational resources, community support, and expert guidance to help you grow.
Inclusiverse: A term coined by HUG itself, Inclusiverse stands for the platform’s dedication to building a diverse and inclusive Web3 ecosystem. Here, every voice matters, and every artist gets a chance to shine.
Gamification Tools: Engage with art like never before! HUG’s gamification tools add a fun and interactive layer to your experience, allowing you to explore and enjoy art in new and exciting ways.
Making the Most of HUG: Tips for New Users
Complete Your Profile: A well-crafted profile can make you stand out. Share your story, showcase your work, and let people know what inspires you.
Engage Actively: Like, comment, share, and collaborate. Engaging with others helps you build a strong network and keeps you in the loop with the latest trends and opportunities.
Explore and Learn: Utilize HUG’s educational resources to enhance your skills and knowledge. The platform offers various courses, information, and reviews to help you thrive in your artistic journey.
Embrace the Gamification: Participate in games, challenges, and interactive features that not only add fun to your experience but also open doors to new opportunities and connections.
Stay Informed and Involved: Join HUG’s Twitter and Discord channels to stay updated and be part of the broader conversation.
HUG is not just another social media platform; it’s a tool in your artistic marketing toolbox. It’s a place where your art finds a home, your voice finds an audience, and your creativity finds endless possibilities. So why wait? Join HUG today and embrace a world where art lives and breathes.
Find them on Twitter or join their Discord to be part of the conversation. And remember, in the world of HUG, there are always plenty of hugs to go around! 🎨💼🤗
Referral Link
If you’re an artist or collector looking to join the inclusive world of HUG and connect with a community of like-minded creators, consider signing up using my referral link. You’ll get access to tools, programs, and opportunities tailored for creatives, and I’ll earn points to help me continue my creative journey.
Let’s explore and grow together in this exciting creative hub.
The universe often communicates through subtle signs and grand gestures alike.
A recent grand gesture came in the form of whispers about a new sculpture being crafted in Colorado’s mountains. Curiosity piqued, I learned that this sculpture, named Rita the Rock Planter, was the work of the talented Danish artist, Thomas Dambo. Nestled in Victor, Colorado, Rita stands as an artful beacon and has quickly become a hiking destination, joining the ranks of the popular Breckenridge troll, also created by Dambo.
As a fellow artist and a descendent of Scandanivan heritage, I felt an innate connection to this creation. Trolls, after all, are woven deeply into the tapestry of Norwegian folklore. With this ancestral link, my encounter with Rita took on a profound significance.
Hearing that Dambo would address the community, I seized the opportunity to attend. There, Dambo shared an enlightening tidbit. He said, “Trolls know stones have no legs, so it’s rude to remove one stone from a family of stones. Rita likes to reconnect them and plant them with their family.” This insight enriched my understanding of Rita’s purpose. Additionally, Rita’s creation is a chapter in Dambo’s broader “Way of the Bird King” project. In this ambitious endeavor, he journeys from Vermont to Washington, constructing ten trolls and thousands of birdhouses in between. At this point, he has manifested an impressive 119 sculptures and birdhouses with just six more to complete the series.
Motivated by these revelations and a delightful breakfast sandwich from Wendy’s (a personal favorite over McDonald’s), I embarked on a 0.4-mile hike to meet Rita in person. Even with my knee challenges and my partner Tim’s battle with cancer, we marched on. The morning of August 5, 2023, symbolized more than just a hike; it was a testament to living fully and embracing each moment.
Rita’s wooden grandeur compelled me to capture her essence through my lens. One particular snapshot inspired ‘Rita in Bloom’, a vibrant digital painting that’s now available through JolieArtPrints.
This entire odyssey affirmed my belief art is a narrative. It’s a conduit that channels memories, experiences, and an artist’s journey into relatable tales. Rita, with her sustainable wooden framework, isn’t just an art piece. She’s a story, a lesson, and an inspiration.
And as seasons transform, I aim to chronicle Rita’s evolution, solidifying our bond and celebrating life’s rich tapestry. Each visit underscores my commitment to personal growth and appreciation for art’s role in community-building.
As I journey forward, I anticipate the tales my art will narrate and the many more trails Tim and I will tread upon in our beloved Colorado.