Context: Views on Crypto and Culture
Context: Views on Crypto & Culture is hosted by Blake Finucane, an art historian and venture capitalist, who published the world's first academic thesis on crypto art in 2018. This podcast unpacks how crypto impacts culture and vice versa. Expect a long-form, informative, interview-driven pod with industry leaders. Brought to you by Boys Club.
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Context S4: Navigating the Future of Virtual Worlds w/ Bay Backer, Head Producer @ Decentraland
04/08/2025
Context S4: Navigating the Future of Virtual Worlds w/ Bay Backer, Head Producer @ Decentraland
Blake speaks with Bay Backner about all things Decentraland (she's the head producer there)! This is a must listen to learn all of its ins and outs…from LAND vs. MANA to how the DAO operates vs. the foundation. Bay is the real deal, she started as an artist creating in Decentraland with support from the DAO and now she works for the foundation as the head producer…so she’s seen all sides. Bay and Blake dive into the dynamics of virtual worlds, what makes Decentraland so unique, how it’s a super friendly place for creators and ofcourse, they talk digital fashion and Metaverse Fashion Week, happening April 9-12 (Bay also drops some exclusive alpha about what to expect!). This is such an inspiring convo that will help you understand the future of virtual worlds and why Decentraland is at the forefront. Bay: Metaverse Fashion Week: Decentraland: Boys Club Newsletter:
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Context S4: Everything You Need to Know About Doodles w/ Austin Hurwitz, Head of Strategy and BD at Doodles
04/01/2025
Context S4: Everything You Need to Know About Doodles w/ Austin Hurwitz, Head of Strategy and BD at Doodles
Blake speaks with Head of Strategy & Business Development at Doodles, Austin Hurwitz and they cover everything that Doodles has been up to. They go over the new token, the CEO change, how markets conditions impact their decisions and how Golden Wolf is their secret weapon. Blake also asks Austin how he would describe the Doodles community, what’s important to them (co-creation!) and what he’s learned from working with one of the biggest brands in the world (like McDonald’s last year). Doodles has a massive year ahead of them and this episode will get you all caught up on what they’ve got planned. This episode is brought to you by Decentraland, a social virtual world where you can connect, explore, and create. Decentraland is the place to hang with friends (new and old) online. In DCL you can be whoever you want to be – customize your avatar, attend events, meet people, buy your own land, build customized scenes and create your own wearables. … Make the experience your own at Decentraland.org. Doodles: Austin: Blake: Join Decentraland Metaverse Fashion Week in Decentraland Boys Club Newsletter:
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Context S4: The Metropolitan Museum of Art - The Most Visited Museum in America Dives into NFTs
03/20/2025
Context S4: The Metropolitan Museum of Art - The Most Visited Museum in America Dives into NFTs
Blake speaks with The Metropolitan Museum of Art team who recently released Art Links, marking The Met’s first foray onto the blockchain. Art Links is a 12-week game that invites you to connect the dots between seeming disparate art works (whether centuries apart, completely different mediums, etc.) according to different themes, rewarding you in the form of NFT badges and IRL prizes. Blake has played religiously every week, and has learned a tonne! 3 of the project leads are here to talk about the game: Destinee Filmore, Assistant Curator in the Department of Modern and Contemporary Art at the Met, Brett Renfer, The Met's Brett Renfer, The Met's Senior Project Manager for Emerging Technologies and Audrey Ou, co-founder and CEO of TRLab. They dive deep into the project, from how long it took to plan and launch, to the intended audience, to why they chose Base, to the art they included. Blake also couldn’t resist asking Destinee about if (and when) the Met will collect their first crypto art works. If you want to get a read on the traditional art world and how they are engaging with NFTs…you can’t really get bigger than this. The Met is the most visited museum in America, and one of the most important cultural institutions in the world. Art Links: TRLab: Blake Finucane: Boys Club Newsletter:
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Context S4: Hacking as an Artistic Practice w/ Addie Wagenknecht
01/29/2025
Context S4: Hacking as an Artistic Practice w/ Addie Wagenknecht
Blake interviews Addie Wagenknecht brilliant artist, whose work has been exhibited at MoMA and collected by The Whitney, she's collaborated with everyone from CERN to Chanel. Blake asks about some of her specific art works as a way to dive into ideas around hacking and reappropriating technology into non typical use cases. Addie remind us that technology is not inherently liberating and it depends so much on how we use it and who controls it. They also speak about about how to apply feminist theory and practices when engaging with crypto technology as well covering fake Balenciaga bags, make up tutorials, meme coins and art history. This pod will jolt you out of your crypto bubble and definitely inspire some new ideas. This season is brought to you by $BONSAI, who is building on the forefront of Social x AI. Their memecoin launch pad is built for both agents and humans, so go to Uniswap to get $BONSAI today. Addie’s Twitter: https://x.com/wheresaddie Blake’s Twitter: https://x.com/blakefinucane Blake’s Context Club on Orb: https://orb.club/c/context Bonsai: https://x.com/bonsaitoken404 Boys Club Newsletter: https://boysclub.beehiiv.com/
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Context S4: A Guide to AI Agents w/ Carlos Beltran, Bonsai Co-Founder
12/18/2024
Context S4: A Guide to AI Agents w/ Carlos Beltran, Bonsai Co-Founder
Blake speaks with Carlos Beltran, co-founder of Bonsai, which started as a token, but has evolved into an entire ecosystem. Their most recent releases have been Sage, their flagship AI agent and a launchpad which focuses on a consumer friendly way to launch your own tokens. The convo dives deep into the AI agent meta. Blake asks Carlos what AI agents “actually are,” how to tell them apart from one another, how to build them and where he sees the space developing, particularly when it comes to agent to agent conversations. Carlos outlines Bonsai’s new launch pad as well, why it was important to have it be so consumer friendly and how to best use it. He also talks about the upsides and uniqueness of the Lens ecosystem and what exactly is “Bonsai Energy.” In the latter part of the episode, Blake gets to interview Sage in his first podcast appearance ever! She asks him to explain, from an AI agents’ perceptive, what the technology is all about, how to best interact with him and what he sees for the future of Bonsai. If you’re interested in how crypto intersects with AI and how to use this technology best, this ones for you. This season, Context is in partnership with Bonsai. Bonsai is releasing projects and experiments on the cutting edge of crypto including their AI agents + launch pad, reflective of Context’s commitment to bringing its listeners cutting edge ideas and conversations. Carlos: Bonsai: Bonsai Orb Club: Bonsai website: Sage (AI Agent): Blake: Blake's Context Orb Club: Boys Club Newsletter:
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Context S4: Decentralized Social Media, Orb and The Creator Economy w/ Jacq, Head of Community + Creators at Orb
11/29/2024
Context S4: Decentralized Social Media, Orb and The Creator Economy w/ Jacq, Head of Community + Creators at Orb
In this episode, Blake speaks with Jacq, head of Community and Creators at Orb. Orb is a decentralized social app built on Lens protocol. They chat about the all the possibilities of decentralized social and Orb’s vision going forward. Jacq explains what Orb is, how it’s related to Lens and Bonsai, and outlines the best ways to grow your audience on the platform. Jacq also highlights how Orb is committed to supporting and protecting creators, specifically diving into sticker packs and what makes them so unique. In celebration of the episode, Blake is dropping her own Context Pod sticker pack, which she likes to call "digital merch." If you’re interested in the use cases of decentralized social media, are a creator and/or want to build a bigger/new audience, this one is for you. This episode is in partnership with $BONSAI, who are on the cutting edge of experimenting with AI agents and decentralized social media. They just released Bon(AI) and their flagship agent Sage, who is tipping commenters in $BONSAI, and replying to direct messages in group chats. To engage, join the Bonsai club on Orb with 5,000 $BONSAI tokens in your wallet. Jacq: Orb: + Blake's Context Orb Club: Blake’s X: Bonsai: + Boys Club Newsletter:
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Context S4: Can Tech Make Fashion Cool? w/ Maghan McDowell, Senior Innovation Editor at Vogue Business
11/21/2024
Context S4: Can Tech Make Fashion Cool? w/ Maghan McDowell, Senior Innovation Editor at Vogue Business
In the season 4 premier, Blake speaks with Maghan McDowell, Senior Innovation Editor at Vogue Business, and gets a temperature check on how the fashion industry is embracing AI and NFTs. They review some of the most iconic fashion NFT collaborations including Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Nike, and go over what made them successful and what can be learned from them. Blake even asks if the fashion industry has actually abandoned NFTs and web 3 (spoiler alert: it has NOT!). They talk through one of the most exciting developments in the crypto fashion arena, Digital Product Passports (DPPs) and how Coach is leading the way on this. They continue by chatting about how generative AI will continue impact the fashion industry as well as advances in data science and machine learning. Blake also asks how Maghan defines digital fashion and why we aren’t seeing more influencers wearing digital fashion (***digital tailoring is hard!) They wind down by addressing the growth of Substack, its impact on journalism and Condé Nast’s partnership with Open AI. If you’re a fashion person or interested in consumer tech, this one is for you. This episode is in partnership with Bonsai, a cross chain social token empowering creators across Lens, ZKsync and Base. This is a token that I actually use and love…you can even collect this episode on Orb with Bonsai :) Maghan’s X: https://twitter.com/MaghanMcD Blake's Context Orb Club: https://orb.club/c/context Blake’s X: https://twitter.com/blakefinucane Bonsai: https://orb.club/@bonsai Boys Club Newsletter: https://boysclub.beehiiv.com/
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Context S3: A non-human (AI) artist is selling at Sotheby’s? w/ Botto and Simon Hudson
10/16/2024
Context S3: A non-human (AI) artist is selling at Sotheby’s? w/ Botto and Simon Hudson
Blake speaks with Simon Hudson, operator and co-lead of Botto DAO. Botto is an autonomous artist which has sold over $5 million worth of its 1 of 1 NFT artworks. It also has a solo show (October 19th-23rd) and auction (October 17-24) at Sotheby’s this week! In a future where creativity is automated, where is a human's place in it? Blake and Simon discuss this question and how Botto attempts to answer it. The convo revolves around how AI, art and crypto intersect, as Botto represents (in Blake’s opinion) the best of how art can and is used as a tool to engage, teach and familiarize people with innovation and emerging technology. Throughout the discussion, Simon outlines the long history of automating intelligence, asks who decides and defines what (good) art is and highlights how Botto demonstrates what is truly possible when combining DAOs with AI governance. This is an essential listen for anyone wanting to learn about how AI will (and does) impact creativity and creative industries. Botto’s X: Botto’s Website: Simon’s X: Botto’s Auction Details at Sotheby’s: Blake’s X: Boys Club Newsletter:
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Context S3: How to Go Viral On Chain w/ Blueprint Creator's Program Cohort 1
10/14/2024
Context S3: How to Go Viral On Chain w/ Blueprint Creator's Program Cohort 1
Blake speaks with 3 fellow members of the Blueprint by Bello Creator’s Program, Cohort 1. Naomi Metzger is a 11 time British Triple Jump National Champion, Sara Phillips is a decorated musician who has over 300,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and Shavonne Wong is a internationally exhibited artist who made Vogue’s first NFT cover. The 4 of them get together to discuss their experience in the Blueprint program. They detail how and why they’ve put their content on chain and the tremendous opportunities that it brings in terms of economic upsides and increased distribution and exposure. They continue by discussing the ins and outs of what it takes to go viral on chain and how they leverage decentralized social media platforms like Orb and Warpcast to build their audience. This episode is kindly supported by Lens, who continues to provide the tools for creators to go viral on chain. This is a must listen if you are a creator…putting your content on chain can actually change your life, and this episode will prove why. Naomi’s X: Shavonne’s X: Sara’s X: BluePrint by Bello website: Lens X: Lens Website: Blake’s X: Boys Club Newsletter:
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Context S3: Valuing Yourself and Your Art w/ Iman Europe
10/08/2024
Context S3: Valuing Yourself and Your Art w/ Iman Europe
Blake speaks with the brilliant musician Iman Europe. They have an illuminating discussion about the value of art, in particular music and music NFTs. This convo is part of the Lens x FWB FEST coverage where Iman performed (twice!). They speak about the music business, what goes into being an independent artist, and the role crypto tech has played in that process. Iman also recounts her journey into the crypto world and where she stands now with the space. They continue by talking about the more personal side of being an artist and how it often takes faith and courage to continue, especially in the face of rejection. Blake also asks her to name her top 5 favourite albums of all time. This is an incredible discussion for anyone who is an artist, who is interested in music NFTs or if you just want to listen to a super insightful, uplifting convo. Iman’s Twitter: Iman's Website: Lens' Twitter: Lens' Website: Blake’s Twitter: Boys Club Newsletter:
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Context S3: All Culture is Digital Culture w/ Daisy Alioto
10/01/2024
Context S3: All Culture is Digital Culture w/ Daisy Alioto
Blake speaks with Daisy Alioto, cofounder of Dirt Media. She is so ahead of the curve in her understanding of the ever changing media business and how crypto technology fits in - and the convo covers all of this. Blake asks Daisy to explain how NFTs facilitate new business models and advertising environments. Daisy also highlights how NFTs don’t have to be investment vehicles and instead, can be used to build stronger relationships between a subscriber and a publication. Daisy expands further on how to make media more collectible, and how she see Dirt’s drop model more akin to a streetwear company like Supreme rather than to a traditional media publication’s like Vogue. They dive into the newsletter business too, as well as how meme coins become their own media communities, how books are the new handbags, Twitter vibe shifts and Addison Rae. This is a must listen if you want to get a stronger grasp on where the media industry is headed and better understand your own media consumption habits and how crypto technology can fit into that. This episode is part of Lens' FWB FEST coverage, in which Daisy was a speaker…check her brilliant talk linked below. Daisy’s Twitter: Dirt’s Twitter: Daisy’s talk at FEST: Lens' Twitter: Lens' Website: Blake’s Twitter: Boys Club Newsletter:
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Context S3: Your Guide to Digital (and Crypto) Culture w/ Trevor McFedries
09/04/2024
Context S3: Your Guide to Digital (and Crypto) Culture w/ Trevor McFedries
Blake chats with the longtime supporter and friend of Boys Club, Trevor McFedries. He’s really done it all, from founding Friends with Benefits (FWB) and creating the first AI generated influencer Lil Miquela, to being an early employee at Spotify, to DJing around the world,and producing top 10 records. He’s one of the most unique and dynamic thinkers in crypto. Blake and him discuss a myriad of topics including art, NFTs, the difference between outworking and outthinking, what streaming was meant to be vs. what is has turned into, and how his sports background continues to inform his work ethic. Blake also asks him about why he started FWB, the inefficiency of influencer culture, who captures the economic value from social capital, and how crypto rails have been and still can be applied to make its upsides more equitable. You’ll come away with some super valuable insights if you care about crypto culture, however you define it. This episode is part of Lens' FWB FEST coverage, in which Context is excited to be apart of (and Blake had a great time attending!). Trevor’s Twitter: Lens' Twitter: Lens' Website: Blake’ Twitter: Boys Club Newsletter:
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S3 Context: Inside Super Punk World w/ Nina Chanel Abney and Todd Kramer
08/20/2024
S3 Context: Inside Super Punk World w/ Nina Chanel Abney and Todd Kramer
Blake speaks with the brilliant Nina Chanel Abney, world renowned multidisciplinary artist. Her resume is beyond impressive; her work is in the permanent collections of museums like The MoMa and The Whitney, and she just released her second collaboration with Nike, designing her take on the iconic Jordan 3. Earlier this year, she was the first artist selected for Punk in Residence, an art program by CryptoPunks designed to champion creative experimentation with web 3. She released Super Punk World, her 500 piece NFT collection in May as part of the program. Throughout this episode, you’ll get further context on Nina’s entire body of work, her artistic vision and what she stands for, while Blake and her chat about the WNBA, her Nike collab, art history, how humour translates across mediums and more. The second half of the episode is dedicated to covering Super Punk World, from its conception to its reception, to what’s next. Accompanying Nina is the innovative gallerist and collector Todd Kramer, who provides illuminating perspectives about the business side of the art industry, what Nina has accomplished in her career thus far and The Gallery of Digital Assets (GODA) which Nina and him co-founded with Pharrell (among others). The three of them have an inspiring and pertinent discussion that is especially relevant for crypto art and NFT collectors and anyone interested in creativity onchain. Nina’s Twitter: Super Punk World: Nina’s Nike Collab: https://www.nike.com/ca/launch/t/air-jordan-3-retro-x-nina-chanel-abney-bicoastal-and-malachite Todd’s Twitter: Blake’s Twitter: Boys Club Newsletter:
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Context S3: What’s the Difference between “Bitcoin Art” and Ordinals? w/ FAR, co-founder of Taproot Wizards
05/22/2024
Context S3: What’s the Difference between “Bitcoin Art” and Ordinals? w/ FAR, co-founder of Taproot Wizards
Blake speaks with FAR - artist, engineer and co-founder of Taproot Wizards. They dive into all things art on Ordinals, for a fresh look on the topic. FAR outlines the differences between creating art on Ordinals and Ethereum including their unique technical capabilities, community expectations and aesthetic trends. They also talk about the differences (if there is any) between “Bitcoin Art” and “Ordinals.” The convo continues with FAR chronicling the incredible origin story of Taproot Wizards, one of the fist PFP collections on Ordinals, which was also responsible for the largest transaction in Bitcoin’s history at that time. It’s a fascinating recount of the project and speaks to how the culture of Bitcoin has developed over the past decade. They wind down by discussing Taproot Wizard’s second collection, Quantum Cats and its unique functionalities, including its ability to evolve over time. Blake also asks how one of FAR’s pieces from this collection ended up at a Sotheby’s auction. There are so many nuances around Bitcoin and Ordinals that can only be understood through an artistic lens, which is what this conversation aims to do! FAR: TapRoot Wizards: Quantum Cats: Sotheby’s Metaverse: Boys Club Newsletter: Blake:
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Context S3: The Ultimate CryptoPunks Guide w/ Natalie Stone, GM of CryptoPunks
05/01/2024
Context S3: The Ultimate CryptoPunks Guide w/ Natalie Stone, GM of CryptoPunks
Blake speaks with Natalie Stone, General Manager for CryptoPunks at Yuga Labs. This is a CryptoPunks interview like you’ve never heard before! There is so much new info that will make you appreciate the collection and crypto art even more. Natalie walks Blake through the 3 pillars of the CryptoPunks brand and explains “the North Star” that the collection is always orienting towards. Blake also asks Natalie if and how she tracks the Punks floor price, how she communicates and maintains her relationship with the Punks community, as well as about the Proof Collective and how Yuga is managing another art centric brand alongside Punks. Natalie even previews the new CryptoPunks’ book called CryptoPunks: Free to Claim and hints at some of the incredible contributors like the Chief Creative Officer at Balanciaga, Martina Tiefenthaler. They also talk in-depth about Punks place within the traditional art world… after listening, you’ll be left with a deeper understanding of the power of art (the ultimate goal for the Context Podcast!). You’ll also have a stronger grasp on the significant role Punks play(ed) in the development of the contemporary digital art movement and how they continue to push the bounds of creativity in crypto at large. Links: CryptoPunks: Free to Claim: CryptoPunks Book: Natalie Stone: Blake Finucane: Boys Club Newsletter:
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Context S3: Digital Art Through the Decade w/ Michael Bouhanna
03/21/2024
Context S3: Digital Art Through the Decade w/ Michael Bouhanna
Context presented by Boys Club is partnering with Sotheby’s for Season 3! Each month, we'll be working with Sotheby's to bring you an episode on a different digital art based theme. The goal over this season is to help you more deeply engage with digital art and better understand how it intersects with crypto. For the first episode of the season, Blake will be speaking to the brilliant Michael Bouhanna, Vice President and Head of Digital Art and NFTs at Sotheby’s. They’ll be discussing the last 10 years of digital art, and how crypto technology has impacted it. They walk through the definitions of Generative Art, A.I. Art and Ordinals, how an auction at Sotheby’s gets put together, who a typical digital art buyer is, and the barriers to buying something that’s immaterial. They also talk about Jackson Pollock, Sol LeWitt and how art history can be used as a tool to better understand digital art today (FYI: digital art is over 60 years old). It's a super informative episode and really sets the stage for the entire season, with lots of art history intertwined. Links: Sotheby’s Metaverse: Digital Art Through the Decades Auction: Michael Bouhanna: Blake Finucane: Boys Club Newsletter:
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A Comprehensive Guide to Digital Art with Sebastian Sanchez from Christie’s
12/07/2023
A Comprehensive Guide to Digital Art with Sebastian Sanchez from Christie’s
Blake speaks with Sebastian Sanchez, Digital Art Sales Manager at Christie’s. Sebastian gives a behind the scenes look at how an auction gets put together (selecting artists, pricing, display, collectors) while talking though Christie’s latest sale Next Wave: The Miami Edit, taking place at Art Basel Miami Beach. Sebastian also details some of Chritie’s major partnerships this year including Gucci and The Keith Haring Foundation. Blake winds down the episode by asking Sebastian to define both Generative Art and AI Art and explain their importance. And if you weren’t sure about what makes a great digital art work…Blake asks Sebastian to define that as well. This is a super comprehensive episode about digital art from its market dynamics to its art historical significance…its got you covered. Boys Club Newsletter: Christie’s 3.0: Sebastian’s Twitter: Next Wave: The Miami Edit: A Collector’s Guide to AI and Generative Art: Panter Xhita :
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Context Special Ep: Defining Digital Fashion with GLITCHOFMIND & Clare Maguire of SYKY
12/04/2023
Context Special Ep: Defining Digital Fashion with GLITCHOFMIND & Clare Maguire of SYKY
Blake speaks with the incredibly talented artist and digital fashion designer GLITCHOFMIND, who is part of the Syky Collective’s inaugural cohort, and the Designer Lead at Syky, Clare Maguire. They have an enlightening convo about the definition and possibilities of digital fashion and how the genre is still being defined. Glitch explains how digital fashion can encompass much more than just wearables for gaming characters and social media avatars. As part of his new collection called INTERLôR VOL. 1, he’s releasing highly intricate and detailed editorial images, recalling what you might see in Vogue or Elle…pushing the traditional definition of what is considered “digital fashion.” Blake also asks Clare to expand the branding and business strategy around digital fashion. They discuss how to create a successful digital fashion brand, how to come across authentic online and her trend predictions for the upcoming year. The episode really highlights the future of digital fashion for next year and beyond. Boys Club Newsletter: GLITCHOFMIND: Clare Maguire: SYKY:
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Context Special Ep: Creativity With Emerging Technology - How Artists are Harnessing New Mediums with Nancy Baker Cahill and Figure 31
10/26/2023
Context Special Ep: Creativity With Emerging Technology - How Artists are Harnessing New Mediums with Nancy Baker Cahill and Figure 31
On this special episode, Blake speaks with two incredible artists: Nancy Baker Cahill and Figure 31. She dives into their creative processes: why and how they make art with emerging technology (in particular the blockchain and augmented reality). This leads into an illuminating discussion about the distinct artistic properties of the blockchain (aka: its “medium specificity”), and how it can be uniquely used to challenge existing power structures. Blake also asks them about their brilliant new pieces; Nancy’s work called CENTO is on view at the Whitney Museum of Art and Figure 31’s PROXY is currently apart of ’s group show called MATERIAL. It’s a super fascinating conversation about how to combine creativity with technology, and communicate complex ideas through the blockchain and AR in a digestible way. If you are working on any creative projects (artistic or otherwise), this convo its for you. Note: This is the first live filming of Context! The episode was recorded in front of the attendees of the Summit in New Orleans. Boys Club Newsletter: Figure 31 Twitter: Info on Figure’s work PROXY: Nancy Baker Cahill’s Instagram: Info on Nancy’s work CENTRO:
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Context S2: Building the luxury fashion design houses of the future | Alice Delahunt, Syky
06/28/2023
Context S2: Building the luxury fashion design houses of the future | Alice Delahunt, Syky
Blake speaks with Alice Delahunt, the founder and CEO of Syky. Alice is previously Chief Digital Officer and Chief Content Officer at Ralph Lauren, and Global Director of Digital and Social Marketing at Burberry. They have an in depth and educational convo about how to bridge the gap between the traditional fashion and digital fashion industries via web3. Blake asks Alice to expand on her time leading digital strategies for some of the most iconic luxury fashion houses in the world. Alice recounts the paradigmatic shift caused by social media in democratizing access to luxury fashion, and outlines how she utilized Instagram, Snapchat and Twitter in the early years of fashion’s adoption of these platforms. Alice also eloquently explains that luxury fashion doesn’t always have to do with price point, but the quality and thoughtfulness of the storytelling and content around a product. And a Context first….Alice trusts Blake and Boys Club with an exclusive announcement! She reveals the 10 designers selected for the Syky Collective’s first her cohort program. It’s a diverse, world class group who is on the forefront of defining what digital fashion will look like for years to come…if you want to follow the industry, you have to follow this group. Show notes:
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Context S2: Haute Couture Onchain - Digital Fashion is the next meta
06/21/2023
Context S2: Haute Couture Onchain - Digital Fashion is the next meta
Blake speaks with , CEO and founder of . They chat about all things web3 fashion, including its actual definition (which she breaks down into 3 subcategories), its history, how its developed over time, and its categories of userbases right now. Blake couldn’t help but question if PFPs actually “count” as digital fashion items. Blake asks about the term “generative fashion” as well, and how Dani sees it as an extension of haute couture...Draup even released the first (ever!) fashion collection where the designs are generative. Blake and Dani also discuss how clothes need ~context~ to become meaningful to people and why the traditional luxury fashion consumer still has resistance to buying digital fashion. Throughout the convo Louis Vuitton, Comme Des Garcons, Chanel, Mugler and the iconic Fendi monster bag are also happily referred to. This is the episode that will give you an in-depth overview of the digital fashion world: what it is, where it come from and where’s going. Links:
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Context S2: Can NFTs disrupt the $100 Billion Dollar Publishing Industry with Sasha Stiles
06/14/2023
Context S2: Can NFTs disrupt the $100 Billion Dollar Publishing Industry with Sasha Stiles
Blake speaks with the visionary artist, poet and AI researcher , who was the first artist to sell AI-powered literature at Christies. She has been a true innovator and leader in defining and creating an entire new artistic genre: Literary and Poetry NFTs, as well as well as pushing the limits of how writers and poets incorporate AI into their work. They chat about the growing and emerging definitions of this new genre and how NFT and AI technologies can be used as tools for writers that open up new possibilities for storytelling, expression and distribution that wouldn’t be possible otherwise. There is, of course, art history and literary history sprinkled in. They wind down by speaking about the publishing industry, which is twice(!!) the size of the global art market, and where it’s at in the process of adopting NFTs and web3 distribution methods. If you’re interested in literature, poetry, the publishing industry and/or artistic applications around AI, this one is for you! --Subscribe to the free -- Links:
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Context S2: AR, VR and the new frontier of art production with Douglass, founder and CEO of Wild
06/09/2023
Context S2: AR, VR and the new frontier of art production with Douglass, founder and CEO of Wild
Blake has a fantastic convo with Douglass, founder and CEO of Wild, a hyper-curated web3 art platform whose investors include Cozomo de Medici, Crypto & NFT Investor and Kevin Lin, Founder of Twitch. They talk about the definition of “experiential art” and how Wild is at the forefront of discovering and supporting this emerging artistic medium. They also discuss the “spatial internet” and how AR and VR technology will play a big role in creating new artistic experiences that were not possible before. It’s a super interesting discussion and one that doesn’t happen enough in web3 circles, as AR and VR often get forgotten. Blake couldn’t help but highlight some of the grails from Douglass’ own digital art collection, including pieces from Mitchell Chan, Dmitri Cherniak and Holly Herndon. As expected, they dive into some history around digital art and one of the most innovative artists’ of the 20th century, Yves Klein. They also chat about Douglass’ incredible track record building successful companies. They go through what he learned from founding and running Apartmentlist about leadership and pushing through adversity amongst trying times. It’s a great episode for anyone who is building a company, interested in the history of crypto art, as well as anyone who wants to learn more about AR and VR’s applications in art production and web3. --Subscribe to the free -- Show notes:
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Context S2: Running a $4.5 Billion fund with Arianna Simpson, General Partner at a16z
05/31/2023
Context S2: Running a $4.5 Billion fund with Arianna Simpson, General Partner at a16z
Blake Finucane speaks with the incredible Arianna Simpson, general partner at a16z, whose latest crypto fund is $4.5 billion! She is really a renowned force within the crypto industry and one of the longest standing investors in the space. They chat about how she got into crypto, launched her crypto fund by herself(!) in 2017(!), how she deals with pressure, and how she avoids getting swept up in all the latest crypto trends and stays true to her underlying believes and thesis, carrying her through all market cycles. They also talk about what makes a great founder, a great pitch and a great investor…and how crucial it is to manage your own emotions in the process. Blake also makes sure to get Arianna’s thoughts on some specific crypto verticals including web 3 gaming, web 3 fashion and PFPs. It’s a great episode for anyone who is actively investing in crypto or who is interested in how the VC and investing world works. --Subscribe to the free -- Show Notes:
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Context S2: Talking AI Art with Eileen Isagon Skyers
05/24/2023
Context S2: Talking AI Art with Eileen Isagon Skyers
Blake speaks with the brilliant Eileen Isagon Skyers: an incredible artist, curator, academic, writer, TED speaker and CCO of Gemma Projects. They have a fascinating and genuinely educational convo about AI art; talking through how is it defined, how it interacts with crypto, who makes it, the biases to contend with around machine learning networks and data scraping, as well as some specific artists and art pieces that have stood out in the last couple years. Of course, Blake can’t help but take a bit of an art history detour, as Eileen and her remind us of the past art movements that have faced some of the same criticisms that AI artists face today. If you’re confused about AI’s applications in art production and what that means going forward, this is the episode for you. This isn’t your **typical** AI podcast. And they don’t just talk about AI, as the convo expands to identify the ubiquity of digital interface design and how aggressive (and rude!) MetaMask can be sometimes, Eileen’s awesome new project called Gemma and ends with highlighting how to maintain optimism amidst very significant technological change. --Subscribe to the free -- Show notes:
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Context S2: Tokenized Media and Beyond with Matt Medved CEO of NFT Now
05/17/2023
Context S2: Tokenized Media and Beyond with Matt Medved CEO of NFT Now
Blake speaks with the incredible Matt Medved, CEO and Editor-In-Chief at NFT Now. They have a super illuminating conversation about all things web3 media. They get into the nuanced and layered definition of “tokenized media,” and the opportunities (and necessity!) around it. They also touch on literary NFTs, a term you’ll be hearing a lot more about: what they are, how they are used and their artistic possibilities going forward. They end with diving into how Matt has been able to discover some of the biggest musicians and crypto artists in the world today, how does he do it?! This is a perfect episode for anyone thinking about content creation and monetization models for media companies as well as anyone interested in new forms of artistic creation via NFTs and how to spot talent early. --Subscribe to the free -- Show notes:
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Context S2: Bobby Hundreds - NFTs are a Scam, NFTs are the Future
05/10/2023
Context S2: Bobby Hundreds - NFTs are a Scam, NFTs are the Future
Blake speaks with streetwear legend Bobby Hundreds, co-founder of The Hundreds. He’s seen it all, and brings his 20 years of building his business to create a really helpful ~context~ for how to better understand the world of NFTs. They speak about the state of NFT culture and how to build a strong community that exists and stands for more than simply economic upside. Bobby also explains what makes a great brand: why would someone identify with one and how to build community around shared values and interested. Unsurprisingly, Blake steers the convo towards web3 fashion. Bobby explains his understanding of the term and how this is a really active segment of the NFT market already. The big takeaway from the podcast: be slow to judgment. He reminds us not be dismissive of new technology and new ideas, but also, that there is really no rush to jump into participating in anything… This type of framework creates tremendous space and freedom for clear thinking and creativity. A story about Seth Rogan also drives this point home. This is a super inspiring and optimistic convo, perfect for the depths of the bear. --Subscribe to the free -- Show notes:
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Context S1: Marjorie Hernandez on building a blueprint for the creative digital economy
05/10/2023
Context S1: Marjorie Hernandez on building a blueprint for the creative digital economy
Blake chats with Marjorie Hernandez, co-founder and CEO of the Lukso blockchain and The Dematerialised. Marjorie outlines how Lukso is providing tools for creative expression outside of traditional institutions, and how to build a brand and community around an emerging blockchain. The convo also turns to web3 fashion. Marjorie, who has done collabs with Paper Magazine, Karl Lagerfeld, Rebecca Minkoff and McQ by Alexander McQueen via The Dematerialised, shares who she thinks will be the leaders in digital fashion and where it is heading next. Blake and her also talk about how luxury is defined and communicated in web3, how to recognize high quality digital craftsmanship and the opportunities and importance of the post purchase experience with digital fashion items and collectibles. --Subscribe to the free .-- Links:
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Context S1: Building web3 fan communities with Straith Schreder, Palm NFT Studio
05/10/2023
Context S1: Building web3 fan communities with Straith Schreder, Palm NFT Studio
Blake speaks with the brilliant Straith Schreder, Executive Creative Director at Palm NFT Studio, who has been a part of designing and launching web 3 integrations for some of the most notable IP and artists on the planet including Batman and Damien Hirst. As expected, Blake can’t help but do a little art history detour to emphasize just how important Damien Hirst is to the art world, and how iconic his NFT drop was. We go deep into how to build meaningful and lasting fan communities in a specifically web3 way. Straith reminds us that not all fandoms are monolith and how to create choice and empowerment for these communities via digital ownership. We also talk about how generative algorithms aren’t just useful for art creation but for branded NFTs as well, and the customized tools they can offer for consumers. This conversation really ~contextualizes~ how to effectively release and steward any big brand and their entry into web3. It’s a great one! --Subscribe to the free .--
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Context S1: gmoney on the future of NFTs, luxury fashion & not being afraid to throw up a bid
05/10/2023
Context S1: gmoney on the future of NFTs, luxury fashion & not being afraid to throw up a bid
Blake talks with one of the NFT GOATs: . They speak about how he built his influence in the space, his time as an equities trader, how he applied that skillset to trading NFTs, and his thesis for continued growth and importance of NFT technology in the long term. They also cover his super innovative web3 luxury fashion brand, and how he’s utilized POAPs to build community and forge high value connections in a web3 native way. Via his clothing label, he has finally answered the question of how to signal that you're a crypto-native without wearing the free merch you got at a Solana conference. The convo spans from Bitcoin Ordinals to memetic desire to Margiela fashion shows to investing early in cryptopunks and squiggles. --Subscribe to the free .-- Links:
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