Apl de Ap delves into the world of NFT music and art
Photo from apldeap/Instagram
Gone are the days when creativity was confined to galleries and studios. It’s now everywhere and comes in many forms. Filipino American musician and record producer Apl De Ap has dropped his apron and is now exploring digital creativity with his launch of NFT music and art collection.
As Celebrity Masterchef UK’s contender last year, the founding Black Eyed Peas member proved that his creativity is beyond the recording studio — which reminds us of his viral “baked potato” recipe during his Masterchef days.
This year, the Grammy-winning rapper is recreating the creative landscape with his NFT collection while blending the auditory and visual realms.
Apl de Ap unveiled his NFT collection on January 18 — the event and auction was a collaboration with digital artist Bitto and GCrypto, the cryptocurrency division of GCash.
Welcoming the “phygital” (physical and digital) exhibit titled “Agents of Peace and Love” are NFT collectors and art enthusiasts. Held at Apotheka in Poblacion, Makati, Philippines, it wasn’t just an art exhibit but a cultural spectacle.
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The event’s showstopper? Apl De Ap’s new track “Turnaround” exclusive to his NFT collection and matched with Bitto’s 4×5 foot art canvas. The artistic collaboration is a perfect chime of Apl’s rhythmic wits and Bitto’s artistic visuals.
An art gallery Vinyl on Vinyl and Filipino NFT marketplace Likha elevated the event by displaying Bitto’s limited edition sculptures etched with Apl’s beats. Though this is not the first time a Filipino artist dipped his brushes into NFT art canvas. Skye Nicolas’ works were displayed in Berlin.
“I’m excited to have my foundation collaborating with Bitto to release our first phygital art launch. It means a lot to see the art move into a myriad of dimensions,” Apl De Ap shared.
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A realm where digital meets physical
Bitto is a contemporary artist from Manila, Philippines who pulls his inspiration from textiles, nature, streetwear and Japanese fashion magazines.
“It’s really an honor for me to be working together with him through GCrypto. I’m truly grateful to know that I created a few artworks for this project that could provide support and grant opportunities to the youth in the Philippines,” said Bitto expressing his gratitude for the collaboration.
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Meanwhile, the Apl De Ap Foundation with its goals of empowering Filipino youth through technology, arts and healthcare will be the beneficiary of the auction’s proceeds.
To explore the fusion of music and futuristic arts, check out Gcash’s NFT Hub.
