DIGITAL RUINS: WHAT'S LEFT AFTER THE NFT ART BOOM?

The Rise and Fall of a Digital Dream

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In the early 2020s, the art world found itself swept into a wave of digital excitement. A new form of online ownership emerged, promising to revolutionize how art was created, sold, and experienced. Artists, collectors, and institutions rushed to explore this frontier, drawn by the allure of innovation and the possibility of reshaping longstanding systems. Virtual galleries flourished, and digital platforms offered new ways to connect creators with audiences across the globe.

But within a few short years, the momentum slowed. The market contracted dramatically, platforms disappeared or shifted focus, and the initial buzz gave way to quiet uncertainty. What had once seemed like a radical transformation now appeared more fragile, raising questions about what truly endures in the digital realm. This movement wasn't just about economics—it reflected a broader cultural moment. It blended online creativity, visual experimentation, and the energy of a rapidly evolving internet culture. For a time, it offered artists unprecedented visibility and independence, challenging traditional gatekeepers and expanding the boundaries of what art could be.