# Bits, bulls, blocks: Critical NFT studies This workshop is a deep dive into the world of NFTs. With a combination of lecture, discussion, and hands-on NFT creation, participants will gain a critical understanding of this emerging artist ecosystem, to better assess how and if to encorporate it into their own art practice. Starting with a historical look at blockchains and blockchain-based art, we will then move into looking more closely at the NFT tokens standard, and popular NFT marketplaces. Also: for those who may already be familar with the conversation around blockchains and energy-use, none of the hands-on components of this workshop will use proof-of-work Workshop outline: - a short blockchain art history - fungible vs non-fungible assets - what to consider when making an NFT - how to mint an NFT on your own terms Discussion topics: - what can NFTs do, and what can they not do? - what kinds of tokens and economic mechanisms can serve artist communities? - proof of work and energy Max participants: 15-20 Length: 4 hours (with breaks)