Corpus-based critical discourse analysis of NFT art within mainstream art-market discourse and implications for the political economy of digital art

This study investigates the status of NFT art within mainstream art market discourse using critical discourse analysis, corpus linguistics, and the political economy of art. Analysis of three 2023 art market reports reveals NFTs' increasingly solid yet variable positioning across art market segments. While well-integrated into mainstream discourse, NFT art remains emergent at the high end. The analysis highlights both positive institutional framing and valorisation of NFT art, alongside ethical tensions concerning accessibility, diversity, and sustainability. The study finds NFT art simultaneously amplifies and challenges existing hierarchies, presenting new opportunities alongside risks.

Zoran Poposki