Builder Series #43: Co-Museum
Turning golden skateboards into fractional ownership of community culture
Anyone who has been around the Azuki and web3 NFT community for a couple years will remember one of the craziest moments of community lore that the garden ever experienced - an auction of 8 golden skateboards over 24 hours with the biggest investors in the space vying for these coveted, exclusive collectibles that both showcased Azuki’s innovative new physical backed token (PBT) technology, and also clocked in as the 8 most expensive skateboards ever sold. Twitter spaces ran for hours as bidders dropped in and out of the top 8 spots and the energy was electric. One of these skateboards was purchased by Mr. Gentle Ape, a project founder in the space and member of Azuki’s SpiritDAO. He furthered the lore of his skateboard by taking it from Singapore to LA to hang with the legendary Tony Hawk, who later blessed and signed the already mythical deck.
Fast forward to today, a web3 company, Co-Museum, has been building in stealth for nearly two years to democratize ownership of iconic artwork through fractionalization and on chain governance and ownership. They acquired Mr. Gentle Ape’s skateboard and are in the process of launching a token for collectors that will prove community ownership shares of this same skateboard along with unique ways to display that collective stake for friends, family and fans to enjoy.
I caught up with Wei and Flexson from the Co-Museum team to dive into their company vision, the upcoming golden skateboard drop and what collectors can expect. Read on.
What is Co-Museum?
Co-Museum transcends the traditional concept of a museum. It is not confined by walls or geography; instead, it is a dynamic cultural collective that empowers individuals to co-collect iconic art pieces from both the Web2 and Web3 worlds.
By pioneering a whole new way to co-collect art through asset-backed collectibles, Co-Museum is transforming art fractionalisation from an emotionless investment tool, into a cultural, collectible product first.
What are Asset-Backed Collectibles?
Asset-Backed Collectibles represent a groundbreaking fusion of physical art and digital ownership. These collectibles are connected with the underlying art assets, ensuring that each piece holds intrinsic value. By leveraging blockchain technology, we provide transparency, security, and authenticity, making it possible for anyone to collect a piece of iconic art.
How will the minting process work?
Our minting process is designed to be inclusive and straightforward. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Collection Details
Total supply: 3,888
Total available for sale: 2,688
Price: 0.089Ξ
Remainder reserved for airdrops, treasury and special activations
Priority Access
Starts 25 July (Thursday) 10am EST / 10pm SGT, 96-hour window
Open to Founder’s Pass holders only
Max 2 priority mints per Founder’s Pass
NFTs will be airdropped after Phase 2
Eligibility checker to check mint quota
Multiple mints during Priority Access period will have a lower chance of duplicate ABCs
Phase 1｜Allowlist Mint
Starts 29 July (Monday) 10am EST / 10pm SGT, 24-hour window
Open to Founder’s Pass Holders & Azuki ecosystem
Founder’s Pass holders: max 2 allowlist mints per NFT
Azuki holders: max 2 allowlist mints per NFT
Elementals/Beanz holders: max 1 allowlist mint per NFT
Eligibility checker to check mint quota
Phase 2｜Public Mint
Starts 30 Jul (Tuesday) 10am EST / 10pm SGT
Any remaining supply open to public
Max 5 mints per wallet
Supports fiat payment
Why did you decide to start Co-Museum?
For years, I have witnessed priceless artworks locked away at Le Freeport, hidden from the public eyes. These masterpieces, unseen by even their collectors, inspired me to create Co-Museum. Our goal is to advance the collective ownership of notable artwork and empower communities to connect with their favorite artists and art pieces. By making these works accessible, we aim to transform the art world, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of art across diverse audiences. Co-Museum is about breaking down barriers and ensuring that art is not just for the elite but for everyone.
Why is it important to co-collect art?
We believe that every museum should embody the principles of a Co-Museum, where art pieces are co-collected by the people, not just the elite 1%. This democratization of art ownership is crucial in making cultural heritage accessible to all, fostering a deeper connection between art and the community. Co-collecting art creates a sense of shared responsibility and pride, encouraging more people to engage with and appreciate the art world. It transforms passive viewers into active participants, allowing them to contribute to and benefit from the cultural landscape.
Why the Golden Skateboard?
We chose the Golden Skateboard because of our admiration for Azuki and their groundbreaking work. This piece is not only one of the most culturally significant physical artworks in Web3 but also a technological innovation with the introduction of the first Physical Backed Token (PBT). It represents the perfect blend of culture, art, and technology. The Golden Skateboard is a symbol of the new era of digital and physical art convergence, and it perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Co-Museum. By featuring this piece, we highlight our commitment to innovation and our deep respect for the cultural movements within Web3.
Do you envision the co-collected assets being showcased at global events?
Absolutely! We envision our co-owned assets being displayed at various events and art galleries worldwide. This will allow our holders and a broader audience to appreciate these pieces, knowing they are part of a global collective. We plan to collaborate with renowned galleries, art fairs, and cultural events to ensure that our artworks reach as many people as possible. By doing so, we not only enhance the visibility of these pieces but also promote the concept of shared art collection on a global scale, fostering a more inclusive and connected art community.
Will co-collectors be able to see the art?
As a co-collector, you will be able to schedule visits to Le Freeport to see the artworks in person. Additionally, we are developing ways for you to view these pieces live from anywhere in the world, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience.
What was it like collaborating with YOON of AMBUSH® for the Golden Skateboard mint?
Working with YOON was an incredible experience. We’ve seen her prowess in the high-fashion scene, and with this drop, we are combining quality with cutting-edge technology to introduce Asset-Backed Collectibles. The collaboration brought together a unique blend of creative vision and technical innovation, resulting in a product that is not only visually stunning but also a testament to what can be achieved when art and technology intersect. YOON’s expertise and passion were evident in every aspect of the design, making this collaboration a highlight of our journey.
What can minters expect from this drop?
Minters can expect nothing less than exceptional quality. Each piece in this drop will reflect our passion and dedication to producing outstanding collectibles. The exclusivity of these items during the minting process ensures that our community receives the best of what we offer. Minters will not only acquire a unique and valuable collectible but also become part of a pioneering movement in the art world. This drop is about more than just collecting art and having cool collectibles; it’s about participating in a revolution that redefines what it means to be an art collector in the digital age.
Will pieces only be available to those that minted?
Once the mint window closes, the Artifact 001 drop NFT will be available on the secondary marketplace for others to purchase. This ensures that while initial access is privileged, the opportunity to own these unique pieces extends to a broader audience, promoting wider participation. We believe in creating opportunities for everyone to join our community and experience the joy of co-collecting iconic art.
What do you think supporters of this mint will be most excited about?
Supporters of this mint will be thrilled by the opportunity to own a piece of Web3 history. The quality of the collectibles is exceptional, reflecting the highest standards of craftsmanship and innovation. Additionally, the mint highlights the co-creation with some of the Azuki community builders and artists, showcasing their talent and vision. This drop blends art, technology, and community spirit, offering supporters a unique and memorable experience.
What’s next for Co-Museum?
The Azuki Golden Skateboard is just the beginning. Our Founder’s Pass holders can look forward to more exciting Artifact drops and deeper integration into our ecosystem. We have some thrilling projects in the pipeline, promising to elevate the art collective experience. Future plans include collaborations with renowned artists, exclusive events, and continuous innovation in how we present and share art. Our vision is to build a vibrant and dynamic community where art and technology thrive together, offering unique and enriching experiences for all members.
Should we expect more born-in-Web3 artwork?
Absolutely! As a collective born in Web3, we understand the cultural importance of this space and have plans to collaborate with more Web3 artists, bringing their innovative creations to our community. We are committed to supporting and showcasing the work of artists who are pushing the boundaries of digital art and redefining what is possible in this new era. Expect to see a diverse range of artworks that reflect the creativity and spirit of the Web3 movement.
What else would you like to share with our readers?
We are not merely selling collectibles; we are transforming art culture by empowering people to co-collect iconic pieces. Our goal is to make art collectability accessible and meaningful for everyone. By fostering a sense of community and shared ownership, we are creating a new paradigm in the art world where everyone has a voice and a stake. Join us in this journey to revolutionize how art is experienced, collected, and appreciated.
What advice do you have for people building with Azuki IP?
Do not hesitate to seek help within The Garden. The talent and creativity in this community are unparalleled. Collaboration and connection are key to creating something truly meaningful. Remember, our success is built on community support and engagement. Reach out, connect, and collaborate with other artists and creators. The strength of the Azuki community lies in its collective creativity and the willingness to support and uplift each other.
Where can people go to learn more?
To stay updated and learn more about Co-Museum make sure to join our discord visit our website and follow our Twitter account for important educational content and announcements.
We regularly post updates, behind-the-scenes insights, and educational materials to keep our community informed and engaged.