FC Barcelona launches ‘Empowerment’ — second NFT in Masterpiece collection

Stock Photo – pbs.twimg.com

FC Barcelona has unveiled another entry to their Masterpiece NFT collection. The piece Empowerment was launched in collaboration with World of Women, a Web3 female empowerment platform.

The NFT pays tribute to Alexia Putellas. It highlights her performance against Wolfsburg in the 2022 Women’s Champions League semi-final.

The NFT will be offered for sale on OpenSea. This marks the first auction of an NFT by a top-tier football club with a global fan base on the marketplace. The auction itself will begin on June 26th at 4 p.m. CEST and run until June 28th at 4 p.m. CEST, lasting 48 hours.

According to FCB’s official website, the “Empowerment” NFT serves to honor the contribution of women in soccer.

The artwork is a creation of Rhi Madeline, a Canadian-based oil painter. Designing NFT involved crafting a three-dimensional sculpture of Putellas. It was then enriched with digital painting, special effects and chants from Barça supporters. The artwork also uses gold to symbolize Putella’s achievements and legacy.

Collaborative effort

Madeline said she was honored to have designed the NFT for Barça.

“Having the privilege of creating such a meaningful work of art for a community as proud and passionate as Barça has been an incredible honor,” she said.

“The values and spirit that Barça embodies deeply resonate with me and this empowering experience will serve as a lasting source of motivation as I continue my artistic journey.”

The owner of the NFT will receive a physical seat taken from Spotify Camp Nou with a portrait of Putellas. This artwork was made by Catalan artist Oscar Tusquets and signed by the player herself. The NFT also comes with a Meet & Greet with Putellas and a pair of signed soccer boots.

World of Women COO Shannon Snow has shared her thoughts on the collaboration.

“As a brand that champions the strength and resilience of women and diverse populations, World of Women is thrilled to collaborate with FC Barcelona in driving forward our shared mission of empowerment and inclusivity,” she said.

“We have selected an exceptional artist, Rhi, from within our community to create awe-inspiring artwork that captures the essence of women’s empowerment in sports.”

Important legacy

Putellas, who scored two goals in the match, is a strong advocate for women’s empowerment in sports.

“I’m proud to be part of a club like FC Barcelona, our soccer team and to continue to making history, with this new Masterpiece I have the privilege of being part of and that represents everyone, while also explaining what Barça represents so well,” said Putellas.

FCB Research Director Jordi Mompart praised Putellas while talking commenting on the NFT.

“Our captain, Alexia Putellas, was one of the protagonists of that game and symbolizes the values of FC Barcelona and the empowerment of the woman in the world of sports,” he said.

“The Masterpiece #2 Empowerment honors Alexia and women’s sports, one of the Club’s priorities. In this way, the Club continues with its clear strategic commitment to adopting technology and innovation to create unforgettable cultural moments and appropriate to the new audiences.”

Empowerment is FCB’s second entry in its ten-piece Masterpiece collection. The first NFT piece — In A Way, Immortal by Johan Cruyff — was released in July 2022.