WASHINGTON – Iconic Moments has partnered with The White House Historical Association (WHHA) to produce a limited edition NFT (non-fungible token) — a digital collectible with proof of ownership through a digital ledger known as a blockchain that can be sold and traded on marketplaces like Iconic Moments. The partnership is WHHA’s first foray into NFTs and the first time PROOF Collective has invited an NFT marketplace to participate in its Grails collection.
Grails Collections highlight original works of diverse artists from around the world. PROOF members have exclusive access to mint these unique pieces but don’t know the respective artists’ identities until after the minting process is complete.
The Iconic-WHHA NFT is created by Linda Dounia Rebeiz, titled Sparrows Do Not Fear the Sun. Rebeiz work uses physical and digital art mediums and incorporates artificial intelligence, making her an ideal fit for paying homage to Alma Thomas a Black female artist who pioneered a style and whose piece Resurrection WHHA selected as inspiration for the NFT.
Painted in 1966 when Thomas was 74, Resurrection features Thomas’s signature abstract style. It depicts several vibrantly colored, irregular, concentric circles forming a sunburst. The work was acquired for the White House Collection with support from George B. Hartzog, Jr., and the White House Acquisition Trust/WHHA and is the first work of art by a Black woman to be added to the White House Collection. First Lady Michelle Obama unveiled the piece in February 2015, revealing its place of honor overlooking the Old Family Dining Room.
“We’re extraordinarily honored to have been approached by Iconic Moments and PROOF Collective to participate in this exclusive, distinguished collection,” said Colleen Shogan, Senior Vice President of the WHHA. “We see this as a one-of-a-kind opportunity to support and tell the story of Alma Thomas’ stunning artwork while also lifting up and highlighting the work of a modern, Black female artist through Linda Dounia Rebeiz’s digital interpretation.”
“Storytelling, history, and culture is at the core of what we do at Iconic Moments,” said Chris Cummings, Founder and CEO of Iconic Moments. “We are excited to partner with Linda, an incredible artist, and PROOF to bring awareness and funding to one of America’s most Iconic institutions: the WHHA. This is our launching point for changing the way that people worldwide experience museums, culture, and art.”
Source: Iconic Moments
