Welcome to the OpenSea digest. Let’s look back through the biggest NFT and web3 news of the week.

Jeremy Booth's ‘Over the Ridge’ sells at Christie's online auction

Western pop artist Jeremy Booth has taken the spotlight at Christie’s with a new auction and exhibition that sold for $20,160 on June 11. The physical painting depicts a vibrant scene of a cowboy herding cattle in Booth’s signature, bold style. The work is accompanied by a digital certificate of authenticity.

Rendered with strong contrasting colors and clean lines, Booth’s piece has a minimalist quality that goes back to his origins as a midcentury-inspired graphic artist.

Booth’s last Christie’s sale was in December 2023, when his unique NFT, "Bossin’ Cattle" successfully auctioned at Christie's 3.0 event, "Next Wave: The Miami Edit." 

McDonald’s announces its own metaverse

McDonald’s Singapore has entered the metaverse with My Happy Place, a virtual world where Grimace NFT holders enjoy VIP perks.

The fast food giant’s venture includes interactive experiences, games and exclusive digital content. According to a press release, holders will be able to unlock in-game wearables and explore a secret island inside the metaverse world.

Tokyo-based artist Emi Kusano explores human desire in ‘The Altar of Bonnō’

Tokyo-based artist Emi Kusano’s “The Altar of Bonnō” is now live on verse. The collection showcases intricate AI artwork inspired by Japanese culture that explores human desire.

As described in a feature written by Mika Bar-On Nesheris, creative strategist and exhibitions director at the experimental AI art collective, Botto, Kusano’s collection creates a temporary refuge from modern life’s material banality and relentless longing.

The Japanese term "bonnō," refers to the mental pollution that can arise when blind passion and strong desires are left unchecked. Thus, “The Altar of Bonnō” encourages viewers to participate in a deeper contemplation of what spiritual fulfillment in the digital age means to them.

ArtMeta launches ‘The Digital Art Mile 2024’ in Basel

Digital art collective ArtMeta this week presented “The Digital Art Mile 2024” in Basel, Switzerland as a tee-up to the flagship international art fair running June 13 to June 16. 

The event brought together artists, collectors and technologists. It included interactive installations, virtual galleries, live NFT minting and thought-provoking panels. Exhibitors included Fellowship, fx(hash) and others.

Illuvium announces launch date for open beta

Illuvium, Immutable’s long-awaited blockchain game, has announced the launch date for its mainnet open beta. Set for July 25, the release comes after a series of private test phases and community feedback meant to bring about new security standards and an improved user experience.

With the forthcoming launch, players will be able to explore Illuvium’s rich, immersive universe and participate in strategic gameplay. New features are allegedly coming to the game, including a revamped weapons system and improved modes for combat and other forms of fighting.

Co-Museum’s collaboration with Azuki and Tony Hawk

Digital art gallery Co-Museum just unveiled a 24-karat gold plated skateboard created by famed anime NFT brand Azuki and signed by legendary skateboarder Tony Hawk. 

The collectible is called “Artifact 001: The Golden Skateboard” and uses the open-source Physical Backed Token (PBT) standard to merge the digital and physical items.

The launch also includes a collaboration with designer YOON, who has worked with famous brands like Nike and Dior. It will reportedly include special clothing and jewelry connected to the golden skateboard. 

Wanderers releases second closed beta: Into the Flame

The experimental sci-fi quest game, Wanderers, rolled out its second closed beta, entitled, “Into the Flame” on June 13. The new phase invites select players to explore new game features and updates, with the goal of refining gameplay and incorporating community feedback.

As excitement builds, the game continues to attract attention for its unique brand of on-chain storytelling.