Meet Nathan
Nathan Cornes’s path into the world of digital art is as unconventional as it is inspiring. Reflecting on his early beginnings, he shares, “When I was 10, I was punished with having to attend ‘Informatics’ class. The first thing I learned was that one could draw sinus lines on a screen with code… and subvert the wave.” This initial encounter ignited a passion for blending math and art, disrupting geometry, and exploring the beauty of asymmetry. It’s a passion he has carried forward, continually pushing the boundaries of digital creativity.
The Unpredictable
Cornes’s work is deeply influenced by the fringes of art—places where creativity thrives but is often overlooked. “I’m very interested in the creations that are not officially artistic but can’t be denied as art: games, design, fashion, and especially creative coding,” he explains. His approach aims to evoke both recognition and surprise, balancing the expected with the unpredictable to create pieces that resonate deeply.
Dynamic environments
Cornes’s choice to release art using Bitcoin ordinals stems from the blockchain's unique properties, particularly its suitability for generative art. “The BTC blockchain is a literal perfect fit for generative art,” he notes. “Exploration is encouraged, and experimentation is valued. Pieces that evolve are not only appreciated but often expected.” This environment fosters a dynamic interaction between technology and art, enabling Cornes to craft works that respond to the ever-changing nature of the blockchain.
Pushing Boundaries
Some of Cornes’s most notable pieces showcase his innovative use of Bitcoin ordinals. Ós, for instance, is a series of kinetic sculptures that shift in position and color, responding dynamically to new blocks inscribed on the BTC blockchain. Another work, rojós, takes a minimalist yet striking approach, using combinations of red, black, and white. Originally offered as a free mint to Ós collectors, it has since developed a devoted following. His latest project, Leviathan, pushes the boundaries further, consisting of four series of 100 inscriptions each that function as a single, massive, volatile entity.
Bridging from the Traditional
Before delving into digital mediums, Cornes explored traditional art forms, working with materials like wood, resin, and metal to create physical installations. “I built, sculpted, and assembled in a world where digital art had no place,” he recalls. The advent of web3 marked a turning point, providing an opportunity to merge these tactile sensibilities with his digital pursuits.
Growth Through Exploration
The evolution of Cornes’s creative process mirrors his personal growth. Initially focused on replicating traditional materials and techniques, he soon realized that digital art offered the freedom to create entirely new materials and laws of physics. “That realization meant a return to the exploration of possibilities,” he explains. It’s this spirit of exploration that defines his work today.
Cornes' Inspirations
Cornes draws inspiration from diverse sources, including kinetic artists like Jean Tinguely and Abraham Palatnik, op-artist Julio Le Parc, and the Bauhaus movement. He also cites anonymous record cover artists as a significant influence. “References are starting points, never destinations,” he says, emphasizing the importance of originality in his work.
A Digital Landscape
The digital space demands adaptability, and Cornes has embraced this challenge. “Now I do the bigger part of my work on Photoshop, working on the visuals before coding a single line,” he explains. While he leaves room for process-driven decisions, his refined approach ensures that the code serves his vision rather than dictating it.
A View to Conquer
Cornes envisions a future where the lines between digital and physical art blur. “I want to conquer physical space with digital and vice versa, not unlike mp3 birthing the mp3 player,” he says. He believes Bitcoin ordinals uniquely position him to achieve this goal, unlocking new possibilities for artistic expression.
A Word of Advice
For those looking to integrate cryptocurrencies into their art, Cornes offers a simple but valuable piece of advice: “Don’t be cheap on gas. Test, test, test instead of watching mempool TV.” Thorough experimentation is key to success in this ever-evolving medium.
Nathan Cornes’s journey is a testament to the power of curiosity and the boundless potential of digital art. Through his innovative use of Bitcoin ordinals, he continues to disrupt conventions, inspire new perspectives, and expand the horizons of creativity.
