APENFT, officially registered in Singapore on 29 March 2021, is a blockchain-based art platform that utilises NFTs to make high-value art more accessible. The project operates primarily on the Ethereum and TRON blockchains, using ERC-721 and TRC-721 token standards to digitise, authenticate, and store art records. By merging traditional art with blockchain technology, APENFT seeks to bridge the gap between established artists and the NFT space, supporting both traditional and native NFT artists.

The platform also uses the BTFS (BitTorrent File System), a decentralised storage solution, to ensure that tokenised digital artwork and metadata are securely stored and accessible, increasing transparency, security, and decentralisation within the art market. APENFT states that its mission is to democratise art ownership, making it accessible to a broader audience and allowing ownership of high-value pieces from both physical and digital worlds​.

APENFT addresses three main challenges of the traditional art market: inaccessibility, counterfeiting, and transaction transparency. The project’s utility spans the following areas:

Tokenisation of Artworks: APENFT digitises and registers artworks, creating ERC-721 and TRC-721 tokens that represent ownership and authenticity. This allows collectors to securely hold digital versions of high-value artwork while guaranteeing the authenticity and transaction history on the blockchain, mitigating issues related to art forgery.

Decentralised Governance: The “NFT” governance token allows holders to vote on important ecosystem decisions, such as acquiring new works, exhibiting pieces in virtual museums, and distributing funds to artistic initiatives. Token holders also have access to participation rewards, including airdrops, DeFi mining, and activity-based incentives.

Support for Artists and Institutions: APENFT invests in NFT platforms and supports both emerging NFT and traditional artists through incubation and sponsorships. The project collaborates with renowned institutions, such as Christie’s and Sotheby’s, and features iconic artists like Beeple, Warhol, and Picasso. Efforts include exhibitions, awards, and sponsored collections to build an inclusive platform that fosters the growth and recognition of NFTs.

Decentralised Art Market: APENFT facilitates high-liquidity, secure NFT trading. Beyond direct sales, APENFT also uses innovative business models like NFT auctions and “mystery box” sales, which increase the circulation of digital art in the market and encourage engagement from a broad audience​.