In this posthumous episode of 'Waiting To Be Signed,' hosts Trinity & Will finally get their crack at interviewing Zancan, a pivotal figure in generative art and fx(hash). Zancan discusses his journey from a self-taught coder at age eight to becoming an engineer and eventually transitioning to a full-time artist. The episode covers his experiences with plotters, the transformative impact of blockchain and NFTs on generative art, and the development of Grass.js. Zancan reflects on his success with NFTs, the challenges of navigating the crypto art market, and the administrative tax hurdles that continue to plague him. The discussion also delves into personal growth, balancing professional and personal life, and the future of the NFT space.
01:59 Zancan's histort in art and coding
06:17 Becoming obsesses with plotters and how that led to creating generative algorithms
08:19 Finding the blockchain and fx(hash) as a means to release his work
09:42 The creation of Grass.js and the Impact of Garden, Monoliths on his career
19:45 Navigating success and challenges of crypto taxation
26:15 Struggling with feeling overwhelmed, burnout, and planning for the future
33:02 The evolution of Grass.js over time and the challenges of code optimization
39:38 The connection between digital and physical and becoming infatuated with embroidery
46:40 The freedom that comes with being uncommitted as an artist and find new opportunities to be creative
52:12 Hopes for the Future of NFTs
54:10 Gratitude and Final Thoughts
Episode Art: Monoliths #000 by Zancan (sold at auction for $111,265.95, December 2021
Intro & Outro tracks by Pixelwank
