We interviewed digital artist TOMO ( @colorful_crypto ), who heads the voluntary group PhantomsCryptoWorld, asking for a self-introduction, what led to holding the Tokushima Prefecture NFT Exhibition, the thinking behind the exhibition and more.
Interview with TOMO
Q1. Please introduce yourself.
I'm TOMO, a digital artist. I head a voluntary group called PhantomsCryptoWorld (hereinafter "PCW").
Under the philosophy of "contributing to local revitalization, regional revitalization and social welfare," our group promotes activities such as art exhibitions, the running of participatory, hands-on events, and social welfare work.
Last fiscal year, 105 people from Japan, South Korea, New Zealand and the United States joined us. Roughly half or more were creators, but members of the general public have joined as well.
Q2. What led you to hold the exhibition, and why?
The Tokushima Prefecture NFT Exhibition was made possible by the cooperation of many companies and media outlets and the official support of Tokushima Prefecture.
The event venue, Tokugin Tomoni Plaza, is a facility run by Tokushima Prefecture. It also houses a youth center and a gym, and many residents use it.
I was convinced that it would let more people come into contact with new technology and the world of art and deepen their understanding, so I decided to hold it.
Q3. Tell us about what you focused on in the exhibition.
We put on an art exhibition to enjoy visually (Japan, South Korea, New Zealand), AR and metaverse experiences that let people try new technology up close, coloring pages that everyone from children to adults could try (materials provided by the PCW Coloring Club), an NFT art tree completed by visitors and more. A map of the neighborhood made by Dagi-chan, a creator living in Tokushima Prefecture, was also handed out at the venue.
PCW is also involved in welfare for people with disabilities. In September 2023, we signed an outsourcing agreement with the employment support facility for people with disabilities of ISFnet Joy Co., Ltd. (Numazu office), and as a result people with disabilities take on the following tasks as paid work.
"Creating the introduction cards needed for exhibition events" "Displaying the same works as at the exhibition venue in the metaverse" We pay their wages out of part of the PCW membership fees and of the sponsorships and donations from individuals and companies. For us and for the people doing the work alike, this is the most ideal cycle.
Q4. Finally, a word for everyone, please!
PCW provides opportunities to present works drawn with care, whether analog or digital. Going forward, we will also build an environment where we can receive commissions from individuals and companies!
We want creators to rediscover the joy of being able to draw through a wide range of activities. PCW's events, built together with many people regardless of disability, age or gender, are sure to be loved by many!
Recruitment of PCW members for fiscal 2024 has already begun! Please take a look at the membership form below, and if you are even a little interested, come and join PCW. Thank you.
<Membership form>
[Fiscal 2024] PCW membership form
