Remember the groundbreaking NFT photography project ‘Twin Flames’ by Justin Aversano? It took the NFT world by storm, showcasing 100 stunning portraits of twin siblings on the Ethereum blockchain. This collection wasn’t just about art; it was a cultural moment, fetching millions and earning recognition from Christie’s to LACMA. Now, Aversano is back, ready to unveil his highly anticipated second act: ‘Smoke and Mirrors.’
What is ‘Smoke and Mirrors’ and Why Should You Care?
Debuting at Gabba Gallery in Los Angeles on March 25th, ‘Smoke and Mirrors’ is Aversano’s latest deep dive into the world of NFT photography. This collection isn’t entirely new; it was initially launched last year as Ethereum NFTs, featuring a unique portrait for each card in a tarot deck. Think of it as a visual tarot brought to life through Aversano’s lens. These captivating photos were captured between 2018 and 2021, right after the monumental success of ‘Twin Flames’.
The Serendipitous Spark: How Tarot Cards Inspired ‘Smoke and Mirrors’
The origin story of ‘Smoke and Mirrors’ is as intriguing as the collection itself. Aversano shared with Decrypt that the idea struck him unexpectedly in Tompkins Square Park, Manhattan’s vibrant East Village. Picture this: a man passionately ranting about black magic, tarot deck in hand. For Aversano, who already had a keen interest in mysticism and magic, this was more than just a random encounter. It was a sign.
“He comes right in front of me and he throws the tarot cards,” Aversano recounted. “They’re all raining down in front of me, and I’m like: What’s going on? ‘Hey, can I have these?’ I asked him, looking at the cards. ‘Are you discarding these?’ ‘Fuck that black magic shit,’ he says. ‘I’m not interested.’”
Just like that, Aversano found himself in possession of a discarded tarot deck and a powerful inspiration. He even noticed a missing card from the scattered deck – the ‘Knight of Staffs’. This serendipitous moment fueled his creativity, leading him to envision his own photographic tarot deck. And who would be his subjects? None other than notable figures like Neil Gaiman, Pussy Riot’s Nadya Tolokonnikova, and even the Winklevoss twins.
‘Smoke and Mirrors’ Unveiled: What to Expect
‘Smoke and Mirrors’ is composed of 78 striking black-and-white photographs, each initially released as Ethereum NFTs. Now, for those eager to experience these pieces in a tangible form, Gabba Gallery will be showcasing papyrus silkscreen prints of the original images from March 25th to April 8th.
Among these powerful portraits, one stands out as particularly poignant: a photograph of Aversano’s father standing beside his mother’s gravestone. This image is not just a photograph; it’s a raw and emotional exploration of grief and remembrance.
“This [collection] confronts fear and death, and I honor this project towards my father,” Aversano explained. “My father’s death card is next to my mother’s grave for a reason. It’s my most honest and best photo. […] It halts you.”
Why Gabba Gallery? Choosing Community Over Prestige
Initially, Aversano planned for four ‘Smoke and Mirrors’ exhibitions, but he streamlined it to two key locations: Los Angeles at Gabba Gallery and Berlin at Expanded.Art, curated by Anika Meier. While he could have opted for larger, more prestigious galleries, Aversano chose Gabba Gallery for the inaugural LA show. Why? For Aversano, it’s deeply personal. He emphasized that the Gabba show is “the one that matters the most.”
His relationship with Gabba Gallery owner Jason Ostro runs deep. For two years, they’ve collaborated on silkscreen projects in the gallery’s backroom. Aversano’s loyalty and appreciation are evident: “I’ve never seen a gallerist show up for me like Jason has at Gabba, in my life.”
Turning down potentially bigger venues to exhibit at Gabba speaks volumes about Aversano’s values. He sees Gabba as more than just a gallery; it’s a community space. “It’s real—not Pace or Gagosian,” Aversano stated, contrasting it with high-profile galleries. “What we have here is the truth, and it’s down to earth: you just need a space to exhibit, and it doesn’t need to be the best space in the world. Just what feels right.”
What’s Next for Aversano After ‘Smoke and Mirrors’?
With the exhibitions, a book release via NFT redemption tickets, and the ‘Smoke and Mirrors’ project nearing completion, what does the future hold for Justin Aversano? His answer is as enigmatic as his art. “I’ll disappear,” he told Decrypt. “That’s my final magic trick after ‘Smoke and Mirrors’—I’ll disappear.”
Is this a literal disappearance? Probably not. But it hints at a possible retreat, a period of creative incubation after pouring himself into such a significant project. Perhaps it’s a symbolic ‘disappearance’ from the limelight, only to reappear with his next captivating artistic endeavor. One thing is for sure: Justin Aversano continues to be a force in the NFT art world, blending photography, mysticism, and blockchain technology in uniquely compelling ways.
Key Takeaways about Justin Aversano’s ‘Smoke and Mirrors’:
- Follow-up to ‘Twin Flames’: Aversano’s second major NFT photography project after his successful ‘Twin Flames’ collection.
- Tarot Card Inspiration: Inspired by a chance encounter with a discarded tarot deck, blending mysticism with modern digital art.
- NFT & Physical Exhibition: Initially launched as Ethereum NFTs, now showcased as papyrus silkscreen prints at Gabba Gallery in Los Angeles.
- Personal and Profound Themes: Explores themes of fear, death, and remembrance, particularly honoring his father.
- Community Focus: Choice of Gabba Gallery over larger venues emphasizes community and authentic artistic relationships.
- NFT Book Release: A book of the collection will be released, accessible via NFT redemption tickets, bridging digital and physical art ownership.
- Enigmatic Future: Aversano hints at a ‘disappearance’ after the project, suggesting a period of creative retreat or reinvention.
Keep an eye on Justin Aversano and the evolving world of NFT photography – it’s a space where art, technology, and personal stories continue to converge in fascinating ways.
Disclaimer: The information provided is not trading advice, Bitcoinworld.co.in holds no liability for any investments made based on the information provided on this page. We strongly recommend independent research and/or consultation with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions.
