Why did SuperRare remove and then reinstate the NFT artwork?

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SuperRare Removed and Reinstated NFT Artwork Due to Evolving Definitions of Art and Community Perception

The NFT artwork, initially removed by SuperRare, was later reinstated after a two-year period. The platform cited that the community initially did not consider the piece to be art. However, significant evolution in discussions surrounding what can be legitimately defined as art, coupled with increasing collector interest and the artwork's transformation into a meme with numerous tributes, led to its reinstatement.
Initial Removal Based on Community and Copyright Concerns

SuperRare removed the NFT artwork, titled "64 gallon toter," shortly after its creation by the artist known as Robness. The primary reasons for this action were twofold: the art community's perception that the piece did not qualify as art, and concerns that the artist might be infringing on Home Depot's copyright. Robness himself stated that the platform threatened him legally, believing he had used an image belonging to Home Depot.
Reinstatement Driven by Evolving Art Discourse and Popularity

After approximately two years, SuperRare reinstated the NFT. This decision was influenced by the substantial shifts in the discourse around digital art and NFTs. The artwork had gained considerable traction, becoming a meme and inspiring a multitude of other works. This growing recognition and the interest shown by collectors played a crucial role in SuperRare's reconsideration and eventual reinstatement of the piece.
The Artwork's Journey from Controversy to Collector Interest

The NFT depicted a large plastic trashcan with psychedelic glitching effects. Despite its controversial beginnings, the "64 gallon toter" began to gain value and notoriety, mirroring historical instances like Marcel Duchamp's submission of a urinal. The artist sold the piece to a collector who was intrigued by its story, leading to a discussion that ultimately solidified the collector's desire to acquire it.
Artist's Philosophy of Open-Source Artistry

Robness, the artist behind the work, advocates for "open-source artistry," a philosophy where individuals are free to use and modify any image they choose. He expresses indifference to others copying or adapting his creations, emphasizing the disruptive potential of blockchain technology. This perspective aligns with the evolving nature of digital art and ownership in the NFT space.

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Why did SuperRare remove and then reinstate the NFT artwork?

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