In recent years, the world of NFTs has seen a remarkable evolution, characterized by the emergence of revolutionary platforms that democratize access to digital art. One such platform, Hic et Nunc—Latin for “Here and Now”—was a trailblazer that operated on the Tezos blockchain, known for its eco-friendly features. Launched in 2021 by Brazilian developer Rafael Lima, Hic et Nunc aimed to provide a space for underrepresented artists, including those from the Global South and queer creators, offering them a venue free from institutional barriers.
Hic et Nunc distinguished itself by offering permissionless minting, allowing users full autonomy to create, collect, and sell their digital artworks. Its design prioritized sustainability, leveraging the energy-efficient Tezos blockchain that utilizes a Proof-of-Stake mechanism to minimize energy consumption. Additionally, artworks were securely stored on IPFS (InterPlanetary File System), ensuring that creators retained long-term access to their pieces.
The platform quickly thrived, becoming a vibrant hub uniting artists and creators from various continents, fostering collaboration in an inclusive environment. Many emerging artists found vital recognition and support through this grassroots network, which was characterized by its open, experimental spirit.
Despite its success, Hic et Nunc faced significant challenges. In 2021, the platform suffered a security breach, but its decentralized architecture protected artists’ work. However, the abrupt closure of Hic et Nunc in November 2021 by Rafael Lima shocked its community. Following this sudden shutdown, the artist community rallied, preserving critical data and continuing their creative endeavors through successor platforms inspired by Hic et Nunc’s foundational values of inclusivity and artistic freedom.
For those interested in diving into the world of NFTs, a series of straightforward steps can guide artists and collectors alike. Setting up a wallet compatible with Tezos, such as Temple, Kukai, or AirGap, is essential. After securing Tezos (XTZ) through various exchanges, users can explore NFT marketplaces like Teia.art, hicetnunc.art, or objkt.com, which are community-driven platforms continuing the legacy of Hic et Nunc.
The process of minting an NFT involves simple steps: uploading artwork, filling in relevant metadata, and paying a nominal fee in XTZ. Artists are encouraged to engage actively with their peers, sharing their work and participating in community discussions on platforms like Discord and social media, as well as dedicated subreddits such as r/hicetnunc.
The enduring influence of Hic et Nunc serves as a testament to the power of community and collaboration in the NFT space. Even after its closure, the spirit of the platform continues to inspire artists and collectors, affirming that the future of digital art lies not in centralized control but in the collective creativity of individuals. As the movement thrives, it becomes increasingly clear that the ethos of Hic et Nunc—embracing inclusivity, innovation, and artistic freedom—will continue to shape the next chapter in the evolution of digital art.
