What does Bitcoin mean to you? An interview with Marco Santini

In a collaboration that brings together the worlds of art and Bitcoin, Marco Santini – an acclaimed impact artist – recently lent his creativity to Bitcoin Magazine and The Bitcoin Conference. His involvement began with the creation of a piece with the first issue of Bitcoin magazine, Spotlight: Bitcoin Magazine Issue #1 (see here), which was specially purchased by Emily Bailey at a Sotheby’s auction and now resides proudly in the Bitcoin Museum in Nashville, TN. This flagship piece features key elements that encapsulate the essential moments of Bitcoin history from the magazine itself.

Spotlight: Bitcoin Magazine Issue #1 can be viewed in the Bitcoin Museum in Nashville, TN

At the 2024 Bitcoin Conference, Santini took his commitment a step further by creating a live mural and collaborative activation. This vibrant piece, now also on display in the Bitcoin Museum, aims to encapsulate the diverse voices of participants who answered the profound question: “What does Bitcoin mean to you?” One notable response came from BTC Inc CEO David Bailey, who reflected: “You know, so many things, cheesy clichés like ‘hope’, but I’m going to say ‘prosperity.’ Because Bitcoin, beyond hope, you need all the things that Bitcoin brings to give your life…fulfillment beyond just the financial element of it. If you’re full of hope, potential and (you’re) excited about the future, you will thrive.”

Tony Sakich had the opportunity to interview Santini and delve into his conference experience and the essence of his painting:

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Tony: OK, so you’ve been doing this all day? What is your response to all those who have told you things and come and ask you to write words? How was your experience at the conference?

Marco: Sure. My name is Marco Santini. I am an impact artist. I travel the world and like to say that I mirror the spirit of communities through interactive collaborative art. This weekend here at the Bitcoin Conference, we were asking people, “What does Bitcoin mean to you?” No judgement, no fear, listening to everyone, in all different walks of life and really trying to understand what they think.

We have over 250 unique responses that we captured here in this mural. It really has bright colors and positive messages. I think surrounding yourself with bright colors and lots of messages can help your mental health and make you feel better and generally connect to the community.

Tony: What were some of the interesting takeaways from the responses you received?

Marco: Specifically, there are some interesting things. By far the most answered answer was “freedom”. Many talked about being able to own their money, not having an intermediary, perhaps fear or distrust of the banking system. The second big idea was the idea of ​​community, that people feel like they’re part of a family, their friends are here. They somehow interact with each other and look forward to seeing each other in person. It’s been really interesting to hear how people connect and find friends and meet people here. Even though they wear Bitcoin logos from head to toe, when I asked them, “What does Bitcoin mean?” they would stop and really think about it, often leading to deep and meaningful conversations.

Tony: It sounds great. Can I add one more?

Marco: What is it your word?

Tony: P2P, peer-to-peer. Because Bitcoin is for the people and is a way for anyone to trade anytime they want freely. They don’t need anyone’s permission to send anything. It’s all about community and trusting the person you’re doing business with.

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Santini’s mural is not just a collection of words, but a living tapestry that captures the hopes, dreams and realities of the Bitcoin community. The artwork is a reflection of Bitcoin’s decentralized ethos, emphasizing freedom, community and peer-to-peer interactions.

Words were added to the painting by Santini as participants answered the question “What does Bitcoin mean to you?”

David Bailey’s contribution to the mural highlighting “prosperity” resonates deeply in the Bitcoin community. His insight underscores the multifaceted nature of Bitcoin as not just a financial tool, but a beacon of hope and a catalyst for personal and communal growth.

Santini’s art continues to inspire and connect people, reflecting the ever-growing and evolving spirit of the Bitcoin community. The mural, now part of the Bitcoin Museum, stands as a testament to the power of collaborative art and the profound impact of Bitcoin on people’s lives. Visitors to the museum can witness first-hand the colorful expressions of what Bitcoin means to people from all walks of life, providing a unique and enriching experience that goes beyond traditional exhibits.

See more from Marco Santini on X: @MarcoSantiniArt and on Instagram: @_Marco_Santini