Former first lady Melania Trump will launch a nonfungible token (NFT) blockchain platform, it was announced Thursday.
NFTs are digital assets of a unique virtual item, such as a piece of digital art. Once a person owns it, it is solely the owner's. A blockchain collects user data together in groups, known as blocks, that hold sets of information.
The new platform, powered by Parler, will release NFTs in regular intervals exclusively on MelaniaTrump.com.
The first NFT, entitled "Melania's Vision" is available to purchase for a limited period between Dec. 16-31.
"I am proud to announce my new NFT endeavor, which embodies my passion for the arts, and will support my ongoing commitment to children through my Be Best initiative," Trump said in a release announcing the venture.
"Through this new technology-based platform, we will provide children computer science skills, including programming and software development, to thrive after they age out of the foster community."
NFTs cannot be altered, thus guaranteeing authenticity and origin. No two NFTs are alike.
Blockchains provide digital records that cannot be forged or counterfeited. Each time a transaction occurs, it is recorded on the blockchain ledger and is transparent to the public.
"Melania’s Vision" is "breathtaking watercolor art" by Marc-Antoine Coulon. It can be purchased with Solana (SOL) cryptocurrency or credit card payments through MoonPay.
"[The first NFT] embodies Mrs. Trump’s cobalt blue eyes, providing the collector with an amulet to inspire," the release said. "The limited-edition piece of digital artwork will be 1 SOL (approximately $150) and includes an audio recording from Mrs. Trump with a message of hope."
The former first lady plans to release NFTs in regular intervals, with a one-of-a-kind auction of historical importance scheduled in January 2022. It will include three elements: digital artwork, physical artwork, and a physical one-of-a-kind accessory.
A portion of the proceeds from the Melania Trump NFT collection will assist children aging out of the foster care system by way of economic empowerment and with expanded access to resources needed to excel in the fields of computer science and technology.
Former President Donald Trump in October announced his own venture, a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) to take Trump Media & Technology Group, along with its "Truth Social" app, public.
via newsmax