BURNER is an innovative cryptoart series created by the artist James Bloom, which uniquely integrates live Ethereum gas price data to dynamically alter its visual representation. This series consists of 256 interconnected artworks that evolve with each Ethereum block, reflecting the fluctuating state of the blockchain in real time.
What is BURNER
At its core, BURNER captures the essence of the Ethereum network's activity. As transactions increase and network usage intensifies, the artwork becomes more complex and forceful. This dynamic change is driven by the gas prices, which are themselves a product of the competing desires and actions of millions of network participants. Each transaction on the Ethereum blockchain contributes to a vast pool of data, which BURNER translates into visually striking states of art, making the invisible forces of blockchain technology perceptible and tangible.
Artistic Process and Visualization
The initial stages of each BURNER artwork start with actual photographs of physical gas, which are then digitally manipulated. These images undergo a series of transformations—extruded into three dimensions, rotated, and processed until they become abstract forms. These forms vary in interaction, creating a unique digital landscape in every artwork.
With a base of unique images and seeds, each BURNER piece can exist in one of 60 million potential states. However, certain rare types, categorized as 'dark' and 'bright,' boast over a billion potential variations. The layers of each artwork, while shared among collectors, are uniquely mixed in every piece, contributing to the rarity and value of slower-evolving pieces.
Decentralized Art Ownership
What sets BURNER apart is its decentralized nature of control. The series isn't governed by its creator but is instead dictated by the Ethereum Virtual Machine and the collective actions of its users. This approach not only challenges traditional notions of art ownership and creation but also highlights the decentralized ethos of blockchain technology.
Exploring BURNER on Digital Platforms
For enthusiasts and collectors interested in viewing or acquiring pieces from the BURNER series, the artworks are showcased in a digital gallery format and are available on platforms like OpenSea. Each piece, whether it's BURNER #158, #24, #73, or #189, comes with detailed views and the option to explore or purchase directly through the marketplace.
BURNER's Broader Implications
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, BURNER serves as a commentary on our relationship with technology and the networks that increasingly influence our lives. By abstracting the underlying behaviors of the Ethereum blockchain, James Bloom invites viewers to reflect on how deeply intertwined our lives are with these digital ecosystems.
BURNER by James Bloom it is a living, breathing reflection of blockchain dynamics, encapsulating the continuous and decentralized processes of Ethereum.
