Web3 + Metaverse + Art Direction + Design

HOw to launch a web3 project

I was approached to design the VIP experience for a muscians global tour. Initially it required a Metaverse build-in and I had absolutely no clue what or how that worked. So I started a project to learn all about how to build and nurture a genuine community in the space. I learned heaps about the tech required in the space and about the limitations.

Research
At the time of my research, there were no Fungi or mushroom-based projects. I combined the words 'Fungi' and 'Non-Fungibles' to form the brand name, representing my interest in mushrooms and the growing global trend. 'Non-Fungibles' directly references the crypto blockchain scene. From a design aesthetic, I aimed to leverage my 3D capabilities and push the boundaries of what was being done with generative and 3D art at the time. Unfortunately, the information required was scattered and required substantial foraging through numerous Notion docs. Ultimately, I found a lack of in-depth community information.

Concepting
Initially, I needed to outline a lore/world with original assets. I aimed for something that meshed well with current trends, didn't feel exclusive, and something I could passionately write about. Working within a predetermined budget based on two weeks of prior research, my friend Ro provided excellent insight and direction about the space. I outlined the project based on a timeline using chapters, which offered a clear roadmap for the community to anticipate future developments. I found that Discord and Twitter were the main social media platforms used in these spaces, so I set up accounts on both.

Building
Building began with developing a brand asset bank, which took a couple of months. It included logos, brand guidelines, and 20 unique Fungi designs. I found a developer skilled in Solidity to write an Ethereum-based smart contract. The initial plan was to leverage generative design, but after producing about 90 Fungi, I realized it was too time-consuming. Therefore, I pivoted to releasing 1-2 Fungi a week. I chose to use the Ethereum-based Polygon network due to their low gas fees and foresight into what Polygon was building.

Community Building
I spent a considerable amount of time in Discord, facilitating a space, building events, creating stories, and generating assets. I automated events such as weekly forages, where community members could potentially purchase a Fungi. A main character known as "The Cultivator," was depicted as an elderly individual who originally discovered these Fungi. He lived in a rural home in the Pacific Northwest and often received messages about unique fungi sightings from around the world. Each fungi NFT includes metadata that refers back to the story and their place of discovery. With limited marketing budget, I leveraged word of mouth, networking, and gifting to build the community.

Links
fungiblesnft.com
@Fungibles_NFT
OS Fungibles
OS Fungi Pins