pussy riot shows the cypherpunk power of feminist nfts
Pussy Riot and the Strategic Use of NFTs
Despite the current prevalence of non-fungible tokens (NFTs), Nadya Tolokonnikova, a co-founder of Pussy Riot, is distinguished by her forward-thinking approach that extends beyond fleeting trends.
Early Adoption of Cryptocurrency
Tolokonnikova revealed to TechCrunch that her engagement with cryptocurrency predates the recent surge in popularity, with Pussy Riot members demonstrating interest in blockchain technology as early as 2015. Masha Alyokhina, also a Pussy Riot co-founder, encountered difficulties with her bank accounts.
Government authorities repeatedly closed her accounts due to funds being used to support protestors. Currently, she is even unable to secure a personal credit card.
Funding a Women’s Shelter Through NFTs
Tolokonnikova is currently leveraging NFTs to raise substantial funds, measured in hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of ether. This is achieved through a four-part NFT series linked to the group’s latest music video, “Panic Attack.”
The generated profits will be donated to a discreet women’s shelter located in Eastern Europe, providing support to women who have challenged societal norms.
Protecting Vulnerable Women
“In this region, women are often regarded as possessions,” Tolokonnikova explained. “There’s a significant stigma attached, and many of these women identify as queer or have been ostracized for actions considered shameful by their families.”
Publicizing the shelter’s location would risk attracting those intent on its destruction. Tolokonnikova views cryptocurrency as a powerful tool, free from governmental control, for activism.
Beyond Publicity: A Long-Term Vision
While some might perceive this NFT initiative as a promotional tactic for Pussy Riot’s debut studio album, “Rage,” slated for release in May, Tolokonnikova emphasizes her enduring interest in the underlying technology.
She is actively exploring ways to utilize crypto tools to dismantle structures of sexist power. The group is also establishing an NFT scholarship program to cover Ethereum transaction fees for feminist artists.
Expanding Access to NFTs
Currently, the scholarship program focuses on activists and political artwork. However, a key objective is to educate the Pussy Riot community and explore methods for making NFTs more accessible at reduced price points.
Collaborations and Recognition in the Art World
Pussy Riot is collaborating with NFT artists like Viktoria Modesta, renowned for her avant-garde designs for individuals with disabilities.
Tolokonnikova believes NFTs provide a pathway for women artists to gain recognition within the traditional art world, a sphere where Pussy Riot’s performance and digital art were previously overlooked by galleries and collectors.
A Shift in Dynamics
“This represents a transformative shift for numerous artists who, for the first time, are being acknowledged as legitimate artists,” Tolokonnikova stated. Previously, funding for Pussy Riot’s performances came from speaking fees and event earnings, not direct art sales.
Now, she is prioritizing NFT drops and approaching them with serious intent.
A Growing Female Presence in the Crypto Space
While the NFT boom has been largely driven by white men with established credentials, such as Beeple and Trevor Jones, women are rapidly becoming a significant force within the crypto ecosystem.
Crypto exchange surveys indicate that women comprise approximately 15% to 50% of users, varying by geographic location.
Support and Mentorship for Women in Crypto
Organizations like Metapurse, She256, and Meta Gamma Delta are providing mentorship and funding opportunities to support women in the crypto space.
“Metapurse is already pioneering this work, but we aim to contribute our own efforts to bring more female and queer artists into the field,” Tolokonnikova concluded. “It offers remarkable tools for the creator economy, extending beyond art to empower creators.”