With the beginning of the popularization of the NFT space, many Web2 projects began to massively switch to Web3 , but not everyone understands the value and meaning of the new direction. The Akutar NFT project by Mick Johnson aims to show the value of diversity and inclusion in Web3.
Micah Johnson has become a prime example of not only tech companies moving into a new space, but art creators as well. The former American baseball player turned his attention to painting and focused all his attention on representation in his work. His debut digital work spurred him on to a question that would change the trajectory of his art.
Mika created the protagonist of Akuvers back in early 2021. Aku is a physical depiction of the confidence and courage of a little black astronaut paving the way for his dream, as the artist claims.
Mika took to Twitter the other day to state:
“On Friday, 15,000 avatars of a black child astronaut will be taken over by Twitter profile pictures. It is important”.
Aku’s story is told through NFTs, or chapters that describe Aku’s dream journey. Most recently, the artist released 9,241 NFT passes for free to Aku NFT token holders. This pass has been named Akustar and is now trading on secondary markets for around 4.85 ETH. In total, this drop earned $13.4 million in secondary sales just before the launch of proof-of-profile (PFP).
See Also: Web3 Helps Creators Tell Their Story With NFTs
Mika adds that Akutars could be more than just another PFP . Akutars is a 3D collection of 15,000 Akuverse PFPs that will also live on the Ethereum blockchain. The images are intended to be empowering, and the Twitter comments prove that Aku’s character’s story and imagery has resonated with a range of NFT collectors.
According to NFTgo, about 60% of collectors keep their Aku Mint Pass for more than a week, while about 30% of owners keep it for less than a week. In addition, over the past seven days, sales volume has increased by 26%, and the average selling price has increased by 89%.
The collection will feature one-of -a-kind pieces and attributes created by streetwear’s biggest names such as Pharrell Williams, Billionaire Boys Club, ICECREAM, Puma and luxury streetwear expert Upscale Vandal. Mika states that this strategic collaboration will provide token holders with many benefits, as well as real-life access to exclusive experiences, collaborations, and products.
What makes Akutars unique compared to other NFTs lies in the cultural significance of Aku and how its story has influenced the key players in the ecosystem who want that story to be heard.
Following the successful launch of part of the NFT passes, the remaining 5,500 NFTs were presented at a Dutch auction yesterday.
