The Artist Behind the Masterpiece
Mike Winkelmann, known professionally as Beeple, is a digital artist whose works have gained significant recognition and acclaim. Beeple’s journey in the digital art space spans over a decade, during which he has produced a vast array of digital illustrations, animations, and VR/AR art. His dedication to his craft is epitomized in his “Everydays” series, where he created and posted a new digital artwork every single day for over 13 years.
The Making of “Everydays: The First 5000 Days”
“Everydays: The First 5000 Days” is a digital collage composed of 5,000 individual pieces of art created daily from May 1, 2007, to January 7, 2021. This collection chronicles Beeple’s artistic evolution and showcases a diverse range of themes, styles, and techniques. The artwork not only represents Beeple’s personal growth as an artist but also reflects broader cultural and technological shifts over more than a decade.
The Record-Breaking Sale
In March 2021, “Everydays: The First 5000 Days” was auctioned by Christie’s, making history as the first purely digital NFT auctioned by the esteemed auction house. The piece was sold for an astonishing $69.3 million, catapulting Beeple into the ranks of the most valuable living artists. This sale underscored the growing acceptance and value of digital art and NFTs in the traditional art market (JUST™ Creative) (NFT Now).
Impact on the NFT Market
The success of “Everydays” had a profound impact on the NFT market. It brought mainstream attention to NFTs, highlighting their potential as a new medium for art collection and investment. The sale demonstrated the viability of NFTs as a legitimate asset class and encouraged other artists and collectors to explore the possibilities of digital art.
Other Notable Works by Beeple
Beeple’s influence extends beyond “Everydays.” Another significant piece by the artist is “Human One,” a dynamic NFT combined with a physical sculpture. This piece sold for $29 million at a Christie’s auction, reinforcing Beeple’s status as a leading figure in the NFT art world. “Human One” is a hybrid digital-physical artwork that features a continuously evolving video displayed on four screens, encapsulating the fluidity and adaptability of digital art (JUST™ Creative).
Beeple’s “Everydays: The First 5000 Days” is more than just a digital artwork; it is a testament to the potential of NFTs to revolutionise the art world. Its record-breaking sale has set a precedent for digital art, paving the way for future artists and collectors. As the NFT market continues to grow, works like Beeple’s “Everydays” will likely be remembered as milestones that defined the early days of this transformative era in art history.
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