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At Virtua, we’re completely dedicated to bringing you the finest artists that the NFT art world has to offer – and it’s our honour to present the immensely talented John Hanley! Keep scrolling to learn all about John’s new collection, Wings, a pair of unique and exclusive 1/1 animated NFTs with deeply philosophical roots, and learn all about this fantastic artist’s epic story.
Wings 1 and 2 are a pair of unique characters that perfectly complement each other through their original tone and remarkable design. From the angelic to the demonic, these two otherworldly beings define everything that John’s artwork is known for – strong, dramatic character forms combined with intense, beautiful visuals and highly detailed texturing.
Wings 1
The world has historically been divided into two camps on the morality debate. Fundamentally speaking, are humans good or bad?
It’s a question that has repeatedly been asked throughout humanity’s history. Aristotle believed that humans are not immoral or moral, but amoral from birth. Philosophers Thomas Hobbes and Rousseau represent the most famous opposing views.
The stunningly beautiful character in Wings 1 represents Rousseau’s optimistic belief in natural goodness, and the moral corruption leading to the division of people by society.
Maybe we as human beings are not inherently good. Maybe we are. Perhaps human nature is too complex.
I don’t know if there’ll ever be an answer that will convince everyone, but humans at least have a capacity to be good. It’s up to us to access that good.
Available on our NFT Marketplace:
– 2D animated 1/1 NFT artwork (1 minted at $8,000)
Wings 2
The world has historically been divided into two camps on the morality debate. Fundamentally speaking, are humans good or bad?
It’s a question that has repeatedly been asked throughout humanity’s history. Aristotle believed that humans are not immoral or moral, but amoral from birth. Philosophers Thomas Hobbes and Rousseau represent the most famous opposing views.
Wings 2 is based on Hobbes’ belief that humans in their most natural state are immoral, brutish, and self-entitled. Man is not exempt from acting violently or selfishly.
Maybe we as human beings are not inherently good. Maybe we are. Perhaps human nature is too complex.
I don’t know if there’ll ever be an answer that will convince everyone, but humans at least have a capacity to be good. It’s up to us to access that good.
Available on our NFT Marketplace:
– 2D animated 1/1 NFT artwork (1 minted at $8,000)
About the Artist
John Hanley attended the prestigious American Academy of Art in Chicago, under the guidance of the most talented artists and instructors in the Midwest. John graduated in 1985, and began his career as an apprentice in a commercial art studio. He quickly moved to being a storyboard artist for ad agencies – and the combination of a fast-paced, high-pressure environment and crazy hours provided invaluable artistic training.
John’s freelance career began in 1989, and has spanned over 33 years as John found his niche in the sports, entertainment, and publishing industries. That powerful range enabled John to build an impressive client list creating posters, books, and promotional art – including art for major ad agencies and corporations such as FCB, Leo Burnett, Best Buy, Budweiser, Coca-Cola, Chevrolet, McDonald’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, BMW, Cadillac, Tribune Publishing, DreamWorks, DC Comics, Marvel, Universal, and Warner Bros., among many others.
John’s love of sports and movies, combined with his artistic talent, has led him to his current achievements painting athletes and celebrities, the legends of today and yesterday. He is passionately dedicated to excellence in capturing sports heroes in their finest moments, and documenting celebrities in their on-screen roles. Although John has always been adept at handling figures, portraits, and likenesses, his portfolio has expanded into commissioned fine arts, with a more painterly aesthetic in both oil and digital painting for private clients. He has a portfolio of athletes that is second to none, which includes working directly with Hall of Famers, current and retired athletes, professional sports teams, and their sponsors.
John’s original paintings have been commissioned for a galaxy of stars, including Hank Aaron, Derek Jeter, Ernie Banks, Greg Maddux, Ferguson Jenkins, Pedro Martinez, Anthony Rizzo, Gale Sayers, Vin Scully, Robin Yount, Brian Urlacher, and many more. His original art and limited edition prints are collected across the country. His professional sports clients include the Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears, Chicago Blackhawks, Chicago White Sox, Denver Broncos, Detroit Tigers, Milwaukee Brewers, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Eagles, St. Louis Cardinals, Tampa Bay Rays, and NFL Properties.
John has worked with numerous private organisations, where he has been commissioned for portraits and art to suit their needs. John’s art has helped raise awareness and thousands of dollars in fundraising for many charities.
As with most artists, John is incredibly passionate about his life’s work – but he does allow himself time for his equally passionate commitment to his family. He lives with his wife Carol and their three children, and currently works out of his home and studio in beautiful Los Angeles, CA.
