Navigating Through the Storm: Our Journey from Traditional Cancer Treatments to the Hope of Cannabis

Navigating Through the Storm: Our Journey from Traditional Cancer Treatments to the Hope of Cannabis

In December 2022, our lives took an unexpected turn when my partner was diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer. The months that followed were a whirlwind of radiation, hospitalizations, and an unyielding quest for healing. Yet, amidst the traditional treatments and their daunting side effects, we’ve embarked on a journey of discovery and hope through holistic and alternative medicine, with cannabis at the heart of our exploration.

The Challenge of Conventional Paths

After a harrowing three weeks in the hospital due to infections and the subsequent battle with a feeding tube, traditional treatments had to be paused. My partner, having dwindled to 130 pounds and confined to bed for seven weeks, faced the additional trial of adrenal cancer that metastasized from the lower part of his esophagus. The physical toll was immense, yet it was the standstill in traditional treatments that urged us to look beyond conventional medicine.

Turning to Cannabis and Alternative Therapies

Our search for alternatives led us to cannabis, a beacon of relief in a sea of pain and discomfort. Remarkably, it offered my partner solace from pain that opiates could not quell. This pivotal experience opened our eyes to the potential of holistic therapies and the importance of integrating them into our battle against cancer.

Among the wealth of information and theories we explored, Thomas Seyfried’s metabolic approach to cancer stood out. His work, which views cancer through the lens of metabolic disease, has not just informed us; it has transformed our approach to fighting this illness. The goal now is not just to treat but to heal, focusing on weight gain, strength recovery, and a gradual return to vitality through personalized care plans that include physical and occupational therapy.

A Journey of Hope and Determination

Our path has been anything but linear. Yet, in the face of adversity, we’ve found strength in each other and in the community that surrounds us. Cannabis has not just offered pain relief; it has opened a door to a world of alternative therapies that promise more than survival—they offer a chance at a life lived with joy, despite cancer.

As we continue to navigate this journey, our resolve is only strengthened by the lessons learned and the small victories along the way. We are more committed than ever to exploring every avenue that could bring comfort and recovery. Our story is one of hope, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of healing, guided by the belief that even in the darkest times, there are rays of light to be found.

To those walking a similar path, know you are not alone. Together, we can face the uncertainties of cancer with courage and a spirit of openness, exploring every possibility that lies on the horizon.

Review of 2023 Art & Trends

Review of 2023 Art & Trends

✨ 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 #LearnWithVitruveo twitter.com/i/spaces/1yoKM

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.

Tiered Collections for Diverse Collectors

Embracing the Art of Variety

In the ever-evolving world of art and collection, there’s a fresh concept taking root, one that promises to bring a new dimension of excitement and accessibility to both artists and collectors: the Tiered Collection System. This innovative approach is designed to cater to a diverse array of collectors, offering different levels of pricing and exclusivity within a single collection.

The Concept of Tiered Collections

The Tiered Collection System breaks down a single art collection into various tiers, each with its unique characteristics and price points. This structure not only makes art more accessible to a broader audience but also adds an element of fun and strategy to the collecting process.

Tiers of Creativity

  1. Limited Editions (Ultra Rare): These are the crown jewels of any collection. Produced in small quantities, they are priced at a premium, offering exclusivity and potentially high value in the secondary market.
  2. Special Editions (Rare): A step down from the ultra-rare, these editions are more accessible yet retain a sense of exclusivity. They might feature unique characteristics that set them apart from standard editions.
  3. Standard Editions (Common): The most accessible tier, these editions are produced in larger quantities and priced for the general market. They are perfect for new collectors or those looking for a more affordable entry into the art world.
  4. Flash Sales and Promotions: To add excitement, artists can periodically offer flash sales, providing collectors the opportunity to acquire pieces at a discounted rate.

Benefits for Artists and Collectors

This tiered approach offers artists the flexibility to reach a wider audience, from high-end collectors to those just beginning their journey into art collection. Collectors, on the other hand, can choose pieces that align with their interests and budget, making the art market more inclusive and dynamic.

Implementation and Marketing

For artists looking to adopt this model, it’s crucial to clearly define and communicate the differences between each tier. Marketing should highlight the uniqueness of each tier, catering to the specific interests of target audiences.

Conclusion

The Tiered Collection System is more than just a sales strategy; it’s a celebration of diversity in the art world. By offering multiple entry points for collectors, artists can not only expand their market reach but also foster a more inclusive and vibrant art community.

Stella Adler: The Beacon for Every Aspiring Artist

Stella Adler: The Beacon for Every Aspiring Artist

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.

Learn More About Stella:
Stella Adler: Awake and Dream!