# Provenance and Scarcity

Minting art on the blockchain offers several significant benefits compared to simply creating digital art as a JPEG or other file format. One of the main benefits is that it allows for the creation of **true digital ownership**. When an NFT is minted, it is stored on the blockchain, which is a decentralized, distributed ledger that is secure and transparent. This means that the ownership of the NFT can be easily verified and tracked, providing a level of security and authenticity that cannot be achieved with a traditional digital file.

<figure><img src="https://1480526110-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FYyFCj6EPwkJhogUskDnu%2Fuploads%2Fgk5MMAndc0m1wp9cw2u9%2Fmetadata.jpeg?alt=media&#x26;token=a908bfa1-2cd4-41fc-b74b-6421f0fedc04" alt=""><figcaption><p>NFT Token points to the metadata, which points to the artwork</p></figcaption></figure>

Another benefit of minting art on the blockchain is that it allows for the creation of **scarcity**, which can increase the value of the artwork. Because each NFT is unique and verified on the blockchain, it is considered a one-of-a-kind asset. This scarcity can drive up demand and potentially increase the value of the NFT over time.

<figure><img src="https://1480526110-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FYyFCj6EPwkJhogUskDnu%2Fuploads%2FTUM3G3Bq4KPB1spjGKvp%2Fscarcity.jpg?alt=media&#x26;token=dba18004-26d9-44d1-bab8-6b24c6ff8105" alt=""><figcaption><p>NFTs create true scarcity for our digital items </p></figcaption></figure>

In addition, minting art on the blockchain can provide more control for the artist. When an artist mints their own artwork as an NFT, they have the ability to set certain parameters for how the artwork can be used and sold. This can help the artist protect their **intellectual property** and ensure that they are fairly compensated for their work.

<figure><img src="https://1480526110-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FYyFCj6EPwkJhogUskDnu%2Fuploads%2FZFB2fcx5MvO02NrFkJJb%2FOwnIt.jpg?alt=media&#x26;token=604ef00e-4057-464a-9e6a-77e5b44fb70a" alt="" width="503"><figcaption><p>NFTs provide reliable records of true ownership for artists and collectors</p></figcaption></figure>
