Mutant Garden Seeder is a collection of 512 distinct generative NFTs on the Ethereum blockchain, created by Harm van den Dorpel in partnership with Folia in 2021. These NFTs are unique digital artworks generated through a complex process involving deterministic random functions and genetic algorithms.
Mutant Garden NFTs Generation
Each Mutant Garden NFT is uniquely minted using the Ethereum block number as its seed. This seed initiates a deterministic random function that populates a Cartesian genetic network, which acts like a Turing complete machine. This network then executes to produce the visual artwork, known as the phenotype. The artwork is output as an SVG file, which evolves visually over time based on its genetic coding and the changing Ethereum block hashes.
Viewing Mutant
Owners can view their Mutant Garden NFTs on the official Mutant Garden Seeder website, which allows users to observe both the initial state and subsequent mutations of their mutants. These NFTs are responsive to different browser window sizes, which influences the rendering of the artwork. For those who prefer a more robust platform, Mutant Garden NFTs are also compatible with OpenSea thanks to their adherence to the ERC721 standard. Additionally, a standalone application is available for download, enabling users to render mutants independently of the website.
Mutants traits
Upon creation, each mutant is assigned specific attributes that remain constant. These include "complexity," "color mode," and "mutation frequency." The complexity of a mutant is determined by the number of layers in the Cartesian genetic network, with more layers allowing for higher complexity. The color mode dictates the color palette used, ranging from RGB for vibrant contrasts, HSL for balanced hues, or a combination of both for complex coloration.
Genetic and Mutation
Mutants contain nodes, or "genes," which carry specific drawing or branching instructions. The percentage of active genes, or "coding genes," is calculated based on how many nodes are utilized during the network traversal. Mutations occur when the seed block hash aligns closely with the current block hash, with mutations more likely to affect already active genes, leading to noticeable visual changes. The frequency of these mutations can vary widely among different mutants, from daily changes to biannual adjustments.
Mutant Garden Seeder is more than just a digital art project; it's an exploration into the potential of blockchain technology to create mutable, evolving digital artifacts without sacrificing the permanence provided by the blockchain. This project illustrates the dynamic capabilities of digital art, enabled by the immutable nature of blockchain technology.
