In March 2021, the art world was forever altered when Beeple catapulted into the limelight with his groundbreaking NFT masterpiece, "The First 5000 Days," fetching a staggering $69 million at Christie's auction house. This pivotal moment not only solidified Beeple's status as an art world heavyweight but also marked the inception of a revolutionary era where non-fungible tokens and digital art collided, leaving even the most esteemed art aficionados reeling. However, Beeple's artistic journey has taken an awe-inspiring turn with the unveiling of "HUMAN ONE" at the Crystal Bridges Museum of Art in Bentonville, Arkansas. This transformative artwork, a harmonious blend of digital innovation and artistic expression, invites viewers on a captivating journey through both the virtual and the tangible realms.
HUMAN ONE at Crystal Bridges Museum transcends conventional artistic boundaries, captivating visitors with its digital video and three-dimensional sculptural amalgamation. The artwork features an enigmatic figure traversing virtual landscapes, depicted across four mesmerizing 16k resolution video screens that perpetually metamorphose. This dynamic experience prompts viewers to question their conscious perceptions and explore the vast expanses of their dreamscapes. Beeple's creation is ingeniously interactive, presenting viewers with a tantalizing challenge to unlock new NFTs by deciphering hidden Easter eggs, thereby adding an exhilarating layer of engagement to the artistic encounter.
The essence of "HUMAN ONE" is not confined to static confines; instead, it embarks on an uninterrupted 24/7 journey of transformation, mirroring the perpetual evolution of human progress. The artwork seamlessly adapts its illumination to the changing time of the day, infusing each moment with a distinct ambiance that harmonizes with its surroundings. Notably, Beeple's commitment to refining and enhancing the artwork remains steadfast, promising continuous evolution every time "HUMAN ONE" graces a new location.
Having recently returned from international showcases at the Castello di Rivoli in Italy and M+ in Hong Kong, "HUMAN ONE" is poised to make an indelible mark on the global art scene. Its sister creation, S.2122 (2023), has already found its home at the Deji Art Museum in Nanjing, China, further solidifying Beeple's influence on a rapidly evolving art landscape.
Anchored in the unison of the digital and the physical, "HUMAN ONE" is hailed by museum specialists as a poignant metaphor for human progress. In a world characterized by constant transformation, Beeple's masterpiece serves as a captivating mirror reflecting the ever-evolving definition of art itself.
Crystal Bridges, founded by Walmart heiress and philanthropist Alice Walton, Beeple's American roots resonate deeply. Originally established in 2005 as a nonprofit institution, the museum embodies the American spirit and has welcomed over 10.7 million visitors since its inauguration in 2011.
While Crystal Bridges couldn't confirm whether "HUMAN ONE" marks Beeple's inaugural appearance in an American museum, the significance remains unparalleled. Acquired by Ryan Zurrer at Christie's in 2021, the exhibit promises an exclusive glimpse into Beeple's visionary creation. Notably, the showcase is open to the public without the need for tickets, inviting all to experience the fusion of artistry and innovation firsthand. The exhibition is set to captivate audiences until January 2024, providing an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the world of "HUMAN ONE" and witness the evolution of art in its purest form.