Behind the JPEG: Loopify
Behind the JPEG: Loopify
How did a graphic designer become the biggest NFT influencer and investor in the scene- Magic?
Loopify is a writer, creator, investor, and above all else he is a wizard. He has governed the NFT space for exactly one year, and in this short span of time, he has accumulated over 50,000 followers to his name. Initially entering the space to teach his followers about the NFTs, his role has evolved significantly. Many will attest that he is the most valuable source of information in the community. But who is he, and how did he get to the position that he is in? Find out in this exclusive interview.
Loopify is both an artist and a collector, so during the initial NFT boom in March, he decided to conduct a social experiment. With his identity hidden, he began collecting 1/1 art through his alter ego account @Linked_infinite. Mirroring his anonymous and allusive personal profile, many were drawn in by his cryptic messages. Artists were left bewildered, that an anonymous Twitter profile was investing thousands of dollars into their work. A bubble was formed and Linked succeeded in enticing the entirety of the art, NFT community. Battling alongside other collectors across foundation auctions, Linked had a mission to build his portfolio with many regarding him as an omnipotent figure, giving back to the art community. Subsequently, Loopify was able to explore the importance of anonymity and decentralization, two key components to the NFT space. This experiment evidenced Loopifys innovative character, something which he has demonstrated even further in recent projects. In addition to this, Loopify curated a piece of history with his Ultimate Artist Collaboration. 100 artists were given the lucky chance to feature in a community project where all of the funds were distributed to the artists, enabling them to kickstart their careers in the NFT space. Crashing Rarible and selling out in minutes, over $100,000 was split between the 100 artists.
Loopify’s progressive thinking was highlighted through his project NFTREES launched back in February, holders were promised long-term rewards including an exclusive founders plot that would eventually be formulated into the Runescape of blockchain games- Treeverse. Fast forward to August and Treeverse is in its alpha phase, and the Founders Private Plots have dropped. Holders can now enter the open metaverse, 2d pixel world and interact with the community. Furthermore, all 420 of the NFTREES holders are able to access their private homes, customize their interiors and showcase their favourite artwork and NFTS. With a roadmap that includes trading, pets, guilds, events, and more, the project is demonstrating serious longevity and promise. Treeverse is set to become the biggest social platform in the NFT space integrating the growing NFT community within an immersive MMORPG gaming experience.
Despite his wealth and status, Loopify has maintained his integrity, humbleness, and most importantly his connection with the NFT community. With every ETH transaction, Loop ensures that he is transparent with his fans, offering real and valuable advice. In addition, Loop is renowned for his informative morning tweets, often symbolised through well known memes and GIFS. If you don’t say GM back, I’m afraid you have lost the respect of the wizard!
To find out more about Loopify’s background, his projects, favourite collections and where his Wizard representation stems from, read on in this exclusive interview below!
What was your background before the NFT scene and when was you first introduced to it.
I was a graphic designer/artist for a couple years before I found out about NFTs, and I entered the space through learning about it from an artist called @etienecrauss - he was dropping work on SuperRare and I thought I'd check this whole "NFT" concept out. This was around a year ago from now. So, I started making NFTs through selling my own art that is still visible on Rarible.
Where does your wizard persona stem from?
It was just a random day when the first NFT bull run began, I saw a cool emoji that I used and told people to use this "wizard" emoji on everyones' post who "didn't know peoples NFTs were selling for this much". Was supposed to represent the sale being magic, and I sort of just ran with it then.
What projects and people do you admire in the NFT community?
There are many that I admire even without owning any. The ones that come to mind are Twin Flames by Justin Aversano and Deafbeef series. Some generative art like Ringers, Fidenzas and Frammentis. People like Matty, AxieKing, Coopah, my [redacted] discord fam :] & many more! One thing I am looking forward to that isn't yet out is Parallel.
Who are your main sources of inspiration inside and also outside of the NFT scene?
I would say I get all my inspiration from the NFT space while taking some traditional elements and applying them to certain projects. We really haven't dug deep into what we can use NFTs for so that is why I am pushing forward in that front.
What was your first purchase and your more recent, would you say your motivations have been the same?
I can't actually remember my exact first NFT, but I do know that it was entirely to support someone else and in no way to gain more money from it. My mindset at this time was that I would never spend more than $100 on an artwork, how times change as I have bought multiple for 6 figures+ now lol. My last purchase that I can think of is Pudgy Penguin. This was entirely just for fun and I wanted to join the cult-like community that I have seen on Twitter with the amazing memes. You don't go against cult-like communities.
Tell us about treeverse, it is currently in its alpha phase. When do you expect the full version to drop and what is your vision for it?
The "full" version of the MMO is predicted to drop EOY. For the MMORPG, it's hard to tell but we are aiming for Q2 2022. I have a massive vision for what we are going to bring to the space but I can't share too much other than telling people to keep an eye on it. Blockchain gaming is the future of gaming.
If you could fast forward 5 years, what have been your greatest achievements?
From now, it would be buying my parents' home a few months after finding out about NFTs. And then giving $100,000 to 100 artists (split) from TUAC. In the future I want to make this $1M.
I’d you could give one piece of advice for someone looking to enter the NFT scene, what would it be?
Research and don't put all your trust in one "influencer". You are better off thinking by yourself. And, find a group of friends that you can relate with / trade NFTs with, It's fun. You should be having fun. Discord is also better than Twitter.
So now that the wizard has revealed his secrets, go practice your magic! Don’t forget to stay updated with his launch of TreeVerse and his many more endeavors! If you enjoyed this article, don’t forget to subscribe. Head over to my Twitter to let me know who you would like to hear from next!