"Absolution" is a commentary on the current state of the (crypto)art and the influence of meme coins on the market. It explores themes of speculation, greed, the search for beauty, and personal growth within the context of a rapidly changing world.

It's built up from two scenarios:

In scenario A, "Absolution" delves into the impact of meme coins siphoning liquidity away from the art market. It questions whether the pursuit of quick profits and speculative investments is overshadowing the true essence of art and its role in human growth and expression. This scenario reflects the tension between financial interests and artistic integrity and value.

The rise in the price of $PEPE will determine if a layer stays or gets eaten. The contract is set up in such a way that every time $PEPE reaches a certain price, a layer will be removed from the output until there are only two layers left active in the output. This narrows the variety drastically and makes the animations more similar-looking. Where we start with 333 editions, all rendering 1/1 animation, we slowly die down into a calmer state with less variety. $PEPE will eat layers until it hits 0.01 cents.

In scenario B, we see the inevitable return of art. It suggests that despite the current focus on financial gains and market trends, art has a timeless and enduring quality that will ultimately prevail. This concept emphasizes the importance of art as a means of reflection, expression, and societal change.

There are two pivotal moments where scenario B comes into play:

• when a data source breaks down and the smart contract is unable to pull the requested data.

• at Pizza Day, 22 May 2026

The artwork's names for the layers and states symbolize the multifaceted nature of the issues at hand. They represent different aspects of my identity and experiences, such as my role as a man, a parent, and an active participant in the crypto (art) world. These layers offer a rich tapestry of perspectives and narratives, inviting viewers to interpret the artwork in their own unique ways.

In a broader sense, "Absolution" also raises questions about the ongoing transformation of society driven by deep learning and AI models. It prompts reflection on whether we are prepared for the changes these technologies bring, and whether established systems are ready to relinquish power.

Ultimately, "Absolution" serves as a thought-provoking and introspective piece of art that encourages viewers to contemplate the complex interplay of art, finance, technology, and human evolution in the contemporary art world. It invites viewers to explore the endless combinations of narratives and perspectives embedded within its layers, creating a rich and immersive experience.

-Rutger van der Tas 🙂