Red Dot

Maximum royalties are shared with the original minters. How far can we propel the red dot!

What is the red dot?

Upon moving to South Carolina I began to notice red dots on buildings throughout the state. I quickly learned the dots symbolize the retail sale of liquor, but why a red dot?

Upon repeal of prohibition in 1933, many states in the Union were reluctant to immediately resume sales of alcohol. In 1945, due to fierce political battles over alcohol advertising, the South Carolina State Legislature passed a measure strictly limiting liquor advertising to the words “Retail Liquor Dealer” using letters no larger than 3 inches tall.

Shortly thereafter, a Charleston liquor dealer named Jesse J. Fabian hired the sign painter C.A. (Doc) Wansley to inscribe the lettering "Retail Liquor Dealer" on his business. Doc, inspired by the popular Lucky Strike Cigarette Brand, painted a large red dot behind the letters in an effort to draw the attention of those seeking the "hard stuff." By 1949 the symbol of the red dot had become ubiquitous statewide.

About the Token

This generative art token is a continued exploration of the iconic red dot.

- Backgrounds can be black, white or red (red is most rare)
- The number and size of the energetic shapes around the dots are cycled through randomly - yellow and blue are more rare than black and white
- The overall canvas size is responsive based on your viewport
- Coded using p5js

About the Artist

Robert Matheson is a community engaged artist from Newberry, South Carolina. His work is focused on improving the health and well-being of others through the arts. In 2019 Robert established Newberry Made, a local artist & maker registry that has grown to over 180 members.

Robert's most recent creation is the NFT Museum of Newberry, SC. A space focused on providing NFT art education, collaboration and exhibition to help artists and the broader community benefit from emerging digital economies. Learn more at www.RobertMatheson.com and www.NonFungibleTokenMuseum.org

NFT License

The owner of this NFT is granted personal use rights. For commercial use or to create derivative works, contact the artist.