Sotheby’s Suspends “Natively Digital: Glitch-ism” NFT Auction Over Inclusivity Concerns

According to reports, Sotheby’s, a well-known auction house, has announced that it has suspended the auction of “Natively Digital: Glitch-ism” NFT because one of the artists, Patrick Amadon, has withdrawn his artwork and claimed that “the NFT series should be more inclusive, especially the important role played by female artists in Glitch-ism.”.

Sotheby’s suspended “Natively Digital: Glitch ism” NFT auction

In the world of digital art, non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have become the latest trend. These unique digital assets are bought, sold, and traded like traditional art pieces, with the added advantage of being authenticated on a blockchain. Sotheby’s, a renowned auction house, recently announced plans to auction off a collection of NFTs titled “Natively Digital: Glitch-ism”. However, the auction was suspended due to inclusivity concerns raised by one of the artists, Patrick Amadon.

The Background of “Natively Digital: Glitch-ism”

“Natively Digital: Glitch-ism” is an NFT collection that showcases digital art pieces influenced by the Glitch art movement. The Glitch art movement is a form of art that emphasizes the imperfections, distortions, and errors found in digital media. The collection was curated by Robert Alice, a British artist, and consists of works by leading Glitch artists like Angela Washko, Katie Torn, and Mad Dog Jones, among others.

The Controversy surrounding “Natively Digital: Glitch-ism”

The controversy surrounding the “Natively Digital: Glitch-ism” NFT collection came to light after Patrick Amadon, one of the artists featured in the collection, withdrew his art and called for the auction to be suspended. In his statement, Amadon claimed that the NFT series should be more inclusive and highlight the vital role played by female artists in the Glitch-ism movement.
This move by Patrick Amadon has led to a debate about inclusivity in the digital art world. Many artists and activists have lauded his courage in speaking up against the lack of diversity among NFT collectors and creators. However, others have criticized him for withdrawing his art, calling it a publicity stunt.

Why Inclusivity is Essential in the Digital Art World

The digital art world offers an opportunity to showcase diverse voices and styles. However, many have observed that the industry tends to reflect the same cultural, racial, and gender biases that exist in the traditional art world. Inclusivity is vital, as it offers a platform for artists who have been historically marginalized to showcase their works and receive recognition.
Inclusivity in the digital art world can also lead to commercial benefits. Studies have shown that diverse teams and organizations tend to perform better, attract a wider customer base, and generate more revenue.

Sotheby’s Response to the Controversy

Sotheby’s has responded to the controversy by suspending the auction of “Natively Digital: Glitch-ism” NFT collection. The auction house stated that they take inclusivity concerns raised by the artists in the collection seriously and are working with them to address them.
Sotheby’s has also acknowledged that the digital art world needs to be more inclusive, and they are committed to making the necessary changes. In a statement to the press, the company said, “We recognize that inclusivity is essential in the digital art world and pledge to work towards being more inclusive in our auctions and collections.”

Conclusion

The suspension of the “Natively Digital: Glitch-ism” NFT collection auction is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive digital art world. Inclusivity should be at the forefront of the industry’s efforts, as it offers an opportunity to showcase diverse voices and styles. Sotheby’s and other auction houses must recognize the importance of diversity and take concrete steps towards creating a more inclusive environment.

FAQs

1. Why did Patrick Amadon withdraw his art from the “Natively Digital: Glitch-ism” NFT collection?
– Patrick Amadon felt that the NFT series should be more inclusive and highlight the essential role played by female artists in the Glitch-ism movement.
2. What is the Glitch art movement?
– The Glitch art movement is a form of digital art that emphasizes the errors, distortions, and imperfections found in digital media.
3. Why is inclusivity important in the digital art world?
– Inclusivity is vital, as it offers a platform for artists who have been historically marginalized to showcase their works and receive recognition. It also leads to commercial benefits by attracting a wider customer base and generating more revenue.
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