What is Vitruveo?
Vitruveo is a so-called L1 (Layer 1) blockchain, comparable to Bitcoin or Ethereum, but with a focus on entertainment, gaming, and art. It’s not just an NFT marketplace; it’s an entire ecosystem. For example, there is Xibit (the art vertical) for showcasing and “consigning” art, Scope for staking and token statistics, and Search for collectors to find artworks easily.
Like every L1 chain, Vitruveo has its own native coin called $VTRU. This is used to pay transaction fees (“gas”). Because Vitruveo uses proof-of-stake, gas fees are relatively low. This keeps things more eco-friendly and cost-effective than some older proof-of-work blockchains.
Useful Links
- Vitruveo Website
- Studio for Artists
- Search for both Artists and Collectors
- Scope (Staking & Stats, etc)
Ans shameless linking my own art on Vitruveo here.
For Artists
Vitruveo uses the term “consignment” (instead of “minting”) to put your art on its blockchain. Below are the key steps, from setting up your account to getting paid.
Create Account
- Go to Studio (studio.vitruveo.xyz) and sign up with your email address.
- Complete your profile (bio, socials, etc.) so Vitruveo can see you’re a legitimate creator.
- You’ll automatically receive a Vault (where earnings go). No external crypto wallet needed at first.
Consignment Process
“Consigning” artwork is similar to “minting an NFT,” but Vitruveo specifically calls it consignment to move beyond typical NFT hype and because a single artwork can contain multiple licenses instead of a single one like with NFT’s.
- Double-check your artwork details before finalizing. Once consigned, the title, description, and image are permanent on the blockchain.
- Only price and license types can be changed afterward.
- Your very first piece is manually curated to ensure authenticity. Subsequent consignments are usually automated.
License Types
Vitruveo supports multiple licenses for a single piece, including:
- Digital Collectible (NFT): Sell as 1/1 or (in future) as limited/unlimited editions.
- Print (POD): Coming soon, letting people order physical prints on demand.
- ArtCard: A free e-card version to promote your artwork that will be commercially availeble in the future.
- Stream: Think “Netflix for art” — your work could be streamed in offices, lobbies, etc.
- Remix: Let others create derivative works, if you want.
Pricing & Payouts
- You set prices in USD, so you’re not affected by immediate crypto volatility during the sale.
- Earnings go into your Vault automatically upon sale.
- When you withdraw, Vitruveo converts it to $VTRU (at the current exchange rate). That’s when you might experience crypto price swings and pay a small gas fee.
- If you want fiat money (like USD or EUR), you then send $VTRU to an exchange (for example, Coinbase).
Marketing Options
Vitruveo has a built-in community marketing approach which they call the Marketing Machine using tools like:
- Stores: Anyone can create a Store, add your work, and earn a commission added on top of your price. You keep your full amount.
- Stacks: Smaller curated lists of artworks (e.g., “Mixed Media Highlights”). Again, curators earn a commission if someone purchases via their Stack.
- Galleries: Real-world galleries can bring their artists onto Vitruveo with custom Stores, broadening your exposure because it will bring more art ethousiasts.
For Collectors
Whether you’re a digital art fan or looking for physical prints, Vitruveo (Xibit) streamlines the process of discovering and buying. The correct term Vitruveo uses for art collectors is Patrons.
Search and Shop
- Go to search.vitruveo.xyz to browse, filter, or search for artists and styles.
- In the future, TruLevel (a reputation system) will help verify the authenticity and credibility of artists.
Buying Art
- Register with just your email to get your own Vault.
- Prices are listed in USD, so you know the cost upfront. Vitruveo handles the behind-the-scenes $VTRU transaction. The total price consists of the amount going to the artist and commisions for curators, stores etc is also added. Patrons cover all expenses for the artist and for the curator if used.
- After purchase, your collectible (or license) sits in your Vault. Connect an external wallet (e.g., MetaMask) later if you want full self-custody.
Reselling & Royalties
If you decide to resell a digital collectible, it’s straightforward. Vitruveo’s smart contracts automatically pay royalties to the original artist, so they continue earning from future transactions.
Wallet & MetaMask
You only need an email address to start, as Vitruveo deposits sales into your Vault. If, however, you want to self-custody your earnings, you’ll eventually need an external wallet like MetaMask. You can link MetaMask to Vitruveo, withdraw $VTRU, and then move it to an exchange if you wish to cash out.
If you want to add the Vitruveo network in MetaMask without manual settings, there’s a button on the Vitruveo Explorer page. Scroll down on that page, and you should find an “Add Network” or “Add to MetaMask” option.
FAQ
Q: Do I need a crypto wallet right away?
A: No. You can simply register with email. Only if you want to withdraw from your Vault do you need an external wallet.
Q: Are there gas fees?
A: Vitruveo covers the consignment gas costs for artists. Gas fees apply if you withdraw from the Vault or conduct any on-chain transactions yourself.
Q: How about taxes or legal stuff?
A: Regulations vary by region, and you might owe taxes on crypto income or international art sales. This is not legal advice; consult a professional if you’re unsure.
Q: Can I import previously minted NFTs from other blockchains?
A: Vitruveo’s CEO has mentioned plans to allow importing minted pieces from other chains eventually, but no firm timeline yet.
Q: What is TruLevel?
A: TruLevel is a planned reputation score. Artists can verify exhibitions, prior sales, or identity to build trust. A higher score helps collectors know you’re authentic.
Disclaimer
This text is not financial advice. I’m not involved in Vitruveo’s development apart from being a passionate user who sees potential in the platform. Crypto can be volatile, and international art sales can involve legal complexities. Always do your own research (DYOR) before investing in or selling digital art.