How Somos Axolotl Uses Web3, Art, and Community to Save the Axolotl and Xochimilco’s Ecosystem
Somos Axolotl blends public art, Web3 innovation, and indigenous wisdom to save Mexico’s endangered axolotl and regenerate Xochimilco’s ancient canals.
Introduction
In the heart of Mexico City’s ancient Xochimilco canals, a vibrant movement is emerging—one that merges public art, community wisdom, and Web3 technology to protect one of Earth’s most extraordinary species: the axolotl. Somos Axolotl, founded by digital artist and Solana success story Matt “Scum” Martinez, activist muralist Gio Mantis, and TIME Magazine “Hero of the Environment” Casson Trenor, is reimagining conservation through blockchain-powered donations, local partnerships, and public sculpture installations that tell a powerful story of regeneration.
The Somos Axolotl Story
Somos Axolotl was born from the shared vision of a digital artist, a muralist, and an environmental activist, three individuals determined to prevent the extinction of the axolotl salamander. Working hand-in-hand with the Xochimilco community, the project aims to restore axolotl populations and regenerate the ancient canals through sustainable economic systems for local farmers, businesses, and tourism operators.
“I am grateful to have found a mission at all – let alone inspired by my own artistic process. In a time where social media inundates you with causes to fight for, it’s incredibly gratifying to find one to immerse myself in. Even now finding moments of hope and success amongst the challenges feels too good to be true.”
I started Somos Axolotl as a way to give back to Mexico. I was on a journey of self discovery through my art – trying to figure out what it meant to grow up half Mexican in the United States. A large part of this journey involved me exploring Mexico’s history, often times reappropriating motifs, deities and stories into my work. All in effort to figure out what my place was within it all. As my way to thank the place, I chose an important cultural icon to ATTEMPT to impact positively.”
Art as Conservation: The Sustainable Corridor
Central to the project is the Artistic and Sustainable Corridor, a series of large-scale axolotl sculptures painted by local and international artists. These colorful public installations, crafted by names like Matt “Scum” Martinez and Gio Mantis, are strategically placed throughout Xochimilco. The project’s impact is further amplified by the vision and environmental expertise of co-founder Casson Trenor, ensuring that each artwork not only inspires but also drives meaningful conservation and education. Together, the sculptures serve as public art and educational tools, encouraging locals and visitors to learn about the axolotl’s plight and the importance of environmental stewardship.
The Blockchain Backbone: Solana Validator Powering Impact
Somos Axolotl is uniquely positioned as the only nonprofit in the Solana blockchain ecosystem operating its own validator. This infrastructure allows supporters to stake their Solana tokens to fund community-driven conservation efforts—no direct donation required. It’s a powerful blend of decentralization and real-world impact, enabling continuous support for ecological and cultural restoration.
Community First: Honoring Xochimilco’s Living Heritage
Xochimilco is one of the last living links to the Aztec capital, Tenochtitlan. Here, families still practice centuries-old agricultural techniques, cultivating endemic species and vibrant flowers that give the region its name. Yet, urbanization and pollution threaten this unique ecosystem. Somos Axolotl is committed to working with local residents, empowering them with new economic opportunities and tools to protect their heritage.
Progress and the Path Ahead
Somos Axolotl’s innovative approach has already made waves in both the art and web3 communities. The project was recently featured at Breakpoint 2024, Solana’s flagship event, highlighting its unique blend of blockchain, community organizing, and storytelling. To date, Somos Axolotl has:
- Installed public art sculptures in Xochimilco, Mexico City, and a featured piece at Breakpoint 2024, now exhibited in Gardens by the Bay, Singapore.
- Built partnerships with local and international organizations
- Developed a transparent, blockchain-based donation system
- Raised awareness for the axolotl and Xochimilco’s environmental challenges
Looking ahead, the team aims to expand the sculpture corridor, increase international attention, and support projects like the reintroduction of axolotls to their natural habitat.
Somos Axolotl collaborates with a diverse group of partners, including Slimes, Santuario Ajolote, Solana, Roel, Pontyx, Sphere, Leap Lab, Maya Moon, Brasil, and Sandbox Studio.
Join Somos Axolotl in regenerating Xochimilco and saving the legendary axolotl.
Learn more, get involved, or support the project at somosaxolotl.com.
- Instagram: @somosaxolotl
- Twitter: somos_axolotl
- LinkedIn: Somos Axolotl
- Discord/Email: media@somosaxolotl.com
About Somos Axolotl
Somos Axolotl is an art- and tech-based initiative dedicated to protecting the axolotl salamander and regenerating the Xochimilco ecosystem. By blending public art, blockchain technology, and community action, Somos Axolotl is building a new model for conservation—one that can inspire and empower communities worldwide.
