8SIAN presents an NFT collection comprising 8,888 digital representations of Asian women, with a focus on depicting the diverse cultures of Asia in intricate detail. The project aims to integrate elements of Asian cultural heritage into the metaverse through authentic avatar representations.^[1][2]

Overview

Founded in 2021 by Nicole Yap and MrHike, 8SIAN is dedicated to creating digital representations of Asian women that reflect the diversity of Asian cultures. The collection of 8,888 hand-drawn NFTs aims to authentically integrate these cultural elements within the Web3 space.

Emphasizing community engagement and educational outreach about NFTs, the project allocates 2.5% of secondary sales towards community-driven initiatives. Through collaborations and participation, 8SIAN seeks to facilitate dialogue between physical and virtual realms, promoting cultural exchange and artistic expression.^{[1][2][3][4][5]}

8SIAN in the Metaverse

Recognizing the transformative role of the metaverse in social dynamics, 8SIAN has expanded its mission to include this virtual environment, which is redefining concepts of social identity and value. Through the 8SIAN Foundation Museum in Decentraland and Sandbox, the initiative aims to integrate Asian culture and heritage. Lead artist MrHike is actively developing 3D representations of 8SIANs and future digital wearables. Plans also include hosting digital events, concerts, and fashion shows to provide a platform for emerging artists. This effort seeks to blend cultural heritage with the evolving landscape of social identity in the metaverse, fostering meaningful engagement for the 8SIAN community.^[10]

Artists

The artists behind 8SIAN's NFT collection aim to fuse cultural diversity with artistic vision, bringing varied backgrounds and expertise to their work.

MrHike, with experience in graphic arts and 3D modeling, directs the artistic vision, having contributed to titles like Spider-Man for PlayStation 5. Yin transitioned from mobile game artistry to focus on 3D game development while continuing her passion for drawing. Sling specializes in anime-style female illustrations, emphasizing creative design within the mobile games sector. Mintminded has a 15-year career across advertising, film, and video games, working in illustrations, concept art, comics, and mural painting.^[3]

Partnerships

8SIAN x Rafflesia

In February 2022, 8SIAN initiated a partnership with Rafflesia, a well-established Malaysian brand recognized for its contributions to jewelry and fashion. The collaboration aims to foster empowerment and innovation, integrating Rafflesia's heritage into the Metaverse as part of 8SIAN's broader goal to introduce Asian brands to web3 technology.^[6]

8SIAN x Cider

In July 2022, 8SIAN collaborated with CIDER, a leading Gen Z fashion brand known for its digital fashion innovations. CIDER operates a popular online clothing store and has a significant social media presence. The partnership involves CIDER acquiring an exclusive 8SIAN NFT for their corporate vault and launching a Virtual Interactive Gallery in the metaverse. This gallery showcases bespoke artworks of 8SIAN representations modeling an exclusive 8SIAN X CIDER collection, enabling visitors to purchase linked physical clothing items alongside free companion NFTs and digital wearables.^[7]

8SIAN x UNIQLO

In August 2022, 8SIAN initiated a collaboration with Uniqlo to enhance representation of Asian cultures in the metaverse and real world. This partnership introduces the 8SIAN X UNIQLO collection, featuring nine distinct NFTs representing various facets of Asian food, culture, and traditions. Each NFT purchase includes a corresponding physical merchandise item and digital wearable, available globally from August 20 to October 20, 2022.^[8]

8SIAN x NFTPangolin

In November 2022, 8SIAN.io collaborated with NFTPangolin and Miss Universe Malaysia to create exclusive 1 of 1 NFTs in the Queen’s Series, featuring jewelry by HABIB. This collaboration aimed to commemorate past and present Miss Universe Malaysia winners. The NFTs were launched on November 25, 2022, coinciding with the Miss Universe 2022 Finals in New Orleans, USA. Owners of these auctioned NFTs were eligible for a 40% discount on selected HABIB diamond and gemstone collection items at HABIB I & II, Ampang Point, under specific terms and conditions.^[9]