Korean digital 3D idol J-Yung joins Shudu in an embrace against Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) hate and discrimination, in this inspirational hybrid of digital art, music, fashion, and activism. These two powerhouses stand proudly together against hate, promoting inclusivity and diversity.
100% of NFT proceeds go to StopAAPIHate.org to help build awareness and end hatred against the Asian American Pacific Islander Community. Stop AAPI Hate is a non-profit centered around raising awareness and providing a reporting resource for those of Asian-American and Pacific Islander heritage.
The 3D Models were created by all-digital modeling agency The Diigitals, longtime champions of driving awareness and promoting diversity in digital art and fashion. In the NFT, J-Yung wears an outfit designed by LEE EUN JIN(@Jin3d_226), a Korean 3d apparel designer, accompanied by music played by Braeden Duperron, a 14 year-old violinist of Japanese, Hawaiian, and Filipino heritage.
Preston Woo, Chief Strategy Officer of Daz 3D and Tafi and visionary behind the NFT’s creation, expresses a deep and personal connection to the project. “I’m proud of Daz 3D and our collaboration with The Diigitals in support of this important and relevant movement. It is more important than ever that we stand together against hate and discrimintion of any kind, particularly in the face of a rising trend of violence directed towards those of AAPI heritage.”
J-Yung’s creator, Cameron James-Wilson said, “bringing together art and technology to benefit such an amazing initiative and stand against anti-Asian hate was an easy decision for us at the Diigitals. As an artist who is heavily inspired by Korean culture, I cannot be silent on the rising issue of anti-Asian hate across the world.”
The animation was created by Juan Mendiola, a Canadian Filipino, who immigrated to Canada in 1989. He was inspired by J-Yung and Shudu’s NFT, reminiscing of times as a child when everyone saw each other as equals. He believes, “we need to get back to those childlike times and see everyone as one and the same — human.”
“A natural reaction in the Asian-American community has been to hide our Asian identities and cultures for fear of being targeted for verbal or physical attacks,” 3d apparel designer, LEE EUN JIN(@Jin3d_226), said in response to her work with this NFT. “Turning to digital art and digital fashion has allowed me to express myself while keeping true to my Asian identity. I am honored to use my skills in support of AAPI month.”
When asked why he contributed to this NFT by playing the violin for the soundtrack, Braeden Duperron said, “I was so excited to play the violin for a project that would help other people like me with all the money going to Stop AAPI Hate. I hope this inspires people to treat others better.” Despite the setback of experiencing discirmination firsthand, Braeden remains hopeful. “I don’t let it bother me and keep doing what I love — playing the violin.”
Unlockables:
All users who purchase the NFT get the following unlockables.
- Full length video of Braeden Duperron playing the violin.
- Concept drawings of the fashion icon clothing.
- Digital assets for the 3D clothing.
- 2048x2048 version of the NFT video
Please reach out to info@maketafi.com with questions.
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About The Diigitals
The Diigitals was created by Cameron-James Wilson, a British fashion photographer and visual artist with over a decade of experience in the industry. Seeking inspiration in a new medium, Cameron began experimenting in 3D modeling and CGI, and created Shudu – the World’s First Digital Supermodel. From there he founded the Diigitals, an all digital modeling agency to demonstrate the potential of 3D fashion modeling and showcase its application for innovative brands. The Diigitals hopes to champion diversity in both the fashion and digital worlds and collaborate with creators from emerging economies and under-represented communities.. Learn more at www.thediigitals.com.
About Tafi
Tafi, founded in 2019, and the parent company of Daz 3D has created the most diverse and artist-friendly digital marketplace in the world. Together, they are home to a massive family of creators and artists who connect and share in Daz’s online community, generating over 20 million images and animations annually. Tafi and Daz continue to drive efforts at the forefront of digital identity and expression. Together we can be the change. Join us in stomping out AAPI hate at www.maketafi.com.
