From NFT to Artifact: The Changing Value of Art in a Post-Digital Economy

Abstract

The emergence of Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) has fundamentally altered the landscape of art valuation and ownership in the digital age. This paper examines the transformation of digital art from speculative NFT commodities to recognized cultural artifacts within a post-digital economy. Through analysis of market trends, technological developments, and cultural shifts, this research explores how the concept of artistic value has evolved beyond traditional monetary metrics to encompass historical significance, cultural impact, and technological innovation. The study reveals that while the initial NFT boom was characterized by speculative trading and digital scarcity manipulation, the current post-digital economy increasingly values digital artworks as legitimate cultural artifacts with intrinsic historical and artistic merit. This transformation reflects a broader maturation of digital culture and suggests a more sustainable future for digital art valuation.