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How to Create Dynamic NFTs with Multi-Creation Editions (ERC-7160)

by Daniel Volkov

Welcome to the future of digital art! If you're an artist or collector passionate about NFTs, you've probably heard of the buzz around dynamic NFTs. Today, we're diving into Multi-Creation Editions (ERC-7160), a groundbreaking innovation that will transform the NFT space by allowing multiple pieces of digital content within a single token. This revolutionary approach, spearheaded by the ERC-7160 standard, is perfect for creating versatile and engaging NFTs that evolve over time.

What Are Dynamic NFTs?

Dynamic NFTs are digital assets that can change and evolve over time. Unlike static NFTs, which remain the same after minting, dynamic NFTs can update their metadata, allowing for new possibilities in digital art, gaming, and interactive experiences. This means the content linked to a dynamic NFT can be modified, enhanced, or expanded after the initial creation, providing collectors with a richer and more engaging experience.

Dynamic NFTs vs. Dynamic Smart Contracts

While dynamic NFTs focus on the evolution of the digital content they represent, dynamic smart contracts refer to the flexible and programmable nature of the underlying blockchain code that governs these NFTs. Dynamic smart contracts, like those using the ERC-7160 standard, allow for continuous updates and modifications to the NFT’s metadata. This capability enables the creation of dynamic NFTs, making the smart contracts the engine behind the NFT's evolving ability.

What are Multi-Creation Tokens?

ERC-7160 is a revolutionary smart contract standard that introduces multi-metadata functionality at the token level. This means that each token within an ERC-7160 contract contains multiple pieces of digital content, rather than just a single piece. It supports a range of file types like JPG, MP4, PNG, GLB, and even files such as HTML, allowing for mixed-media tokens.

Use Case Example: Imagine adding multiple aspect ratios of a 1/1 artwork to the token's array, giving your collectors more flexibility when it comes to displaying their treasures.

Key Features:

  • Dynamic Metadata Revision History: One of the standout features of ERC-7160 is the ability to append new versions of artwork to a token's metadata array. This creates a 'revision history' where the original metadata is preserved and new versions are added. Collectors can navigate through this history, displaying any version of the artwork and witnessing the full evolution of the piece.

  • Enhanced Collector Engagement: Multi-Creation Editions offer new ways to reward and engage collectors. Instead of traditional airdrops, you can add new content to existing tokens.

  • Versatility for Artists: Digital artists can add new layers or versions to their art, musicians can release updates or remixes, and writers can publish story chapters sequentially.

  • Building Long-Term Relationships: By continuously adding new metadata to existing tokens, you can build lasting relationships with your collectors and keep them excited about what's next.

Real-World Examples of Multi-Creation Editions

Let's take a look at some pioneering projects that have utilized the ERC-7160 standard to create dynamic NFTs:

  • Perils of Sese by AllSeeingSeneca is the first project built on ERC-7160. Each artwork is a standalone painting with three different 'blooms' of borders revealed over time. The longer the collector holds the work, the more it will blossom.

  • 24 Hours of Art by Roger Dickerman: These tokens tell the story of 2024, first updating to a unique date, then evolving through two stages of 1/1/366 art as the date and year progress. Each token started with the same artwork but was assigned a date & has individually begun to evolve into something more.

  • Everlasting Glitchstopper by Visceral Glitch: A first-of-its-kind use of ERC-7160, adding one new artwork to each Origin token every month for the next 50 years, resulting in over 600 unique glitched photographs delivered directly to your token.

  • Seeds by Patric Ortmann: A series of 1/1s inspired by nature, available on MakersPlace. Each 1/1 seed will evolve and reveal new artworks, such as the Sprout & Bloom states, offering collectors a journey through the blossoming stages.

How to Create Your Own Dynamic NFTs with Multi-Creation Editions

Ready to create your own dynamic NFTs? Follow these simple steps:

  • Set Up Your Digital Wallet:

    • Popular options include MetaMask, Coinbase Wallet, and Rabby Wallet. Make sure your wallet is set up and funded to cover gas fees.

  • Connect to Transient Labs:

    • Visit The Lab and connect your wallet. This allows you to deploy your smart contracts seamlessly.

  • Create Your Smart Contract:

    • Navigate to the contract dashboard, create a new contract, and select ERC7160 as your contract type. Deploy your contract on your chosen blockchain.

  • Mint Your Dynamic NFTs:

    • Select your contract and create a new token. Fill out the general information, add multiple pieces of metadata, and mint your NFT.

  • Add New Artwork Creations to Your Origin Token:

    • As the creator, you can propose new Artwork Creations to be added to the metadata array of your minted Origin Token. This keeps your NFTs evolving and engaging for collectors.

Benefits of Using ERC7160 for Dynamic NFTs

  • Versatility: ERC7160 allows each token to connect to multiple pieces of digital content, making your NFTs more interactive and engaging.

  • Enhanced Collector Experience: Collectors can enjoy a richer, evolving experience with dynamic metadata updates.

  • Long-Term Relationships: Dynamic NFTs foster ongoing engagement between creators and collectors, building stronger communities.

Conclusion

Multi-Creation Editions (ERC-7160) represent a significant leap forward in the world of digital art and NFTs. They offer dynamic and interactive experiences for collectors and creators, fostering deeper connections and continuous engagement. By leveraging the ERC-7160 standard, you can create innovative and evolving NFTs that captivate and delight your audience.

Are you ready to dive in and create your first dynamic NFTs with Multi-Creation Editions? Join The Lab today and explore the endless possibilities. Check out our NFT Minting Guide for more detailed information, and start your journey with Transient Labs now!