Kyōdō (協同)
- a Japanese word that means "cooperation" or "collaboration". It is often used to describe working together in harmony or a joint effort towards a common goal.
Project Overview
Kyōdō invites collectors to actively participate in the minting process by drawing directly on a canvas, which serves as the foundation for the artwork. The algorithm then builds upon this input, resulting in a unique piece of art that is a true collaboration between artist and collector.
Collection Size: 10,000
Launch Date: February 15th, 2025
Whitelist: 0.0002 BTC + gas
Public: 0.0005 BTC + gas
Try it out!
We created a playground where you can experiment with the Kyōdō algorithm.
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The Story
The algorithm behind Kyōdō started as a simple sketch on OpenProcessing in 2022. I was experimenting with some animations and arranging simple shapes in geometric patterns. I liked where it was going but it never felt substantial enough to develop into a full project. Something was missing.
Nearly two years later, I revisited the idea with a new approach: interactive collaboration. This was the missing piece. Inspired by QQL, I wanted to push the concept even further -
What if, rather than just selecting parameters, collectors could actively contribute their own unique designs and creative inputs to form the foundation of the artwork? This innovation transformed the project into a true partnership, blending creativity from both sides.
The final version of the generative algorithm and the core of the minting logic were developed in September and October 2024, in hotels, cafes, and teahouses across Tokyo and Kyoto during a six-week trip to Japan. This journey inspired the collection’s Japanese name and aesthetic.
The collaborative concept also posed significant technical challenges — including running a full Bitcoin node, designing a custom minting engine, and building the entire inscribing infrastructure from scratch to ensure the project’s seamless functionality.
The launch of Kyōdō is the culmination of nearly two years of hard work and experimentation, and I can't wait to share it with the world.
Meet the Artist
Dmitry Was Here is a digital nomad currently living and working in Thailand. With a background in music, arts, and computer science, Dmitry creates generative artworks that push the boundaries of the digital medium. He is the founder of BLOCC Gallery and the creator of the Kyōdō collection.
