Enjoy the Process: In 6 Easy Steps
Unlocking the Story and Hidden Meanings behind the Genesis NFT Collection by Kenton Michael.
What is an NFT?
Non-fungible tokens are used to create verifiable digital scarcity, as well as digital ownership, and the possibility of asset interoperability across multiple platforms. NFTs are used in several specific applications that require unique digital items like crypto art, digital collectibles, and online gaming. Art was an early use case for NFTs, and blockchain in general, because of its ability to provide proof of authenticity and ownership of digital art that has otherwise had to contend with the potential for mass reproduction and unauthorized distribution of art through the internet.
ENJOY THE PROCESS: IN 6 EASY STEPS
The experience in creating this series pushed me to think further into a process I go through every six months to create the next season's jewelry collection. By now I know this process to a T and so does my family unfortunately. I say unfortunately because it is both physically and mentally exhausting for me and those closest to me.
My passion is not necessarily making jewelry, but more creating; Specifically art. My hope is that this Art series resonates with creatives who go through this process or parts of this process. And for those who don't, it will help deconstruct the perception of creating.
Each of these 6 artworks represents a step in this creative process that I have compiled. Below I explain how each of these steps relate to me. I also explain the many hidden meanings and details in each image that at first glance you will not catch. This series mixes actual photographs with computer filter combinations in order to create an emotion.
STEP 1: INSPIRATION
“Inspiration” was created with an original top view photograph of different things that represent the spark of inspiration for me. I am a coffee fanatic. I love the process behind the bean origin, to roasting and the many brewing processes. Music fuels creativity for me. Less words the better. Classical to melodic to ambient to house is the range. I think through the design process by searching for new materials and putting design concepts in my head on to paper.
- Hidden Meanings
These design sheets are what I use to map out each collection. These are actual design sketches representing the Spring ‘21 Collection.
“Serendipity” is playing on the iPhone representing the mood quite well. This song is from Chicane, one of my musical inspirations. In place of the actual album artwork is a handmade jewelry process shot. The unfiltered jewelry stack is in focus as well.
STEP 2: EXPLORATION
" Exploration" was created with a photograph of a shipwreck that I took in Fraser Island, Australia a number of years ago. I love the desaturated background with the bright colors in the rustic shipwreck.
- Hidden Meanings
The ship represents the exploration phase in this process. Exploring ideas, materials and techniques found in the Inspiration phase. You are constantly testing new ideas and pushing the limits to see what works (represented by the bright colors). The shipwreck represents the looming next step of Self Doubt.
STEP 3: SELF DOUBT
"Self Doubt" was created with a photo of one of my design spaces after a long day of creating. This step is where I continue to explore and nail down ideas and designs from the previous stages. Then doubt creeps in. I start to feel negative about what I have come up with so far. Many of the ideas fail and I feel like I will not have enough new products to show.
- Hidden Meanings
The design space is reflected to show more detail about what is going on. A darker side. The light is on but nobody is there. A detail in one of the reflected picture frames show a hint of what is coming in a future step.