SKAUT, citing the official Barcelona newsletter, reports that FC Barcelona is releasing the first ever NFT: "In a Way, Immortal"
An audiovisual digital artwork recreating Johan Cruyff’s legendary stadium moment on 22 December 1973 when the iconic Dutch player 'flew' through the air to score a seminal goal against the Atlético Madrid goalkeeper Miguel Reina. The auction at Sotheby's, the world's premier destination for art, luxury, and collectibles, will be presented in a hybrid online-live auction, and will comprise the one-of-one animated edition of In a Way, Immortal, as well as an additional four NFTs that will each include a still image from the animated version, which captures an iconic moment of the legendary goal.
The high-end piece, titled In a Way, Immortal -inspired by a quote of Johan Cruyff- was produced by the Club in collaboration with BCN Visuals, a strategic innovation partner and Digital Superstudio that developed the NFT’s cinematographic aesthetic.
The project was made possible with the involvement of the World of Johan Cruyff.
About the Auction
Further information related to the auction can be found at nft.fcbarcelona.com, including a countdown to the opening of the online bidding period, which starts, July 21, as well as a link to follow the auction live taking place on July 29.
The starting price of the auction is 40,000 US dollars.
About preparation of NFT
In a Way, Immortal retells Johan Cruyff's legendary goal in poetic molten gold animation that was created by a 40-strong team of Hollywood’s most talented computer graphics (CG) and visual effects (VFX) artists. The 40-second film is accompanied by an original soundtrack played by a 30-piece orchestra, incorporating real sounds from the Camp Nou stadium and FC Barcelona supporters.
The Hollywood CG and VFX team worked on all aspects of the production, from a digital sculpture of Johan Cruyff to the simulation of golden-coloured fluids, textures and shading, cutting-edge cinematography and camera work. The production of Cruyff’s digital sculpture required more than a thousand working hours and the overall production entailed a total of more than 10,000 production hours.
Barça offers for NFT holder
The buyer of this unique artwork will also be gifted a number of VIP Club-based benefits and experiences and will be named a Barça Digital Ambassador.
In addition to being the sole owner of the NFT, the Barça Digital Ambassador will be able to enjoy a number of ‘money can’t buy’ experiences. FC Barcelona will incorporate in the NFT’s smart contract a set of utilities such as Meet & Greets, visits to La Masia, hospitality rights (for a minimum of five years), the right to play at the Spotify Camp Nou and an official handover of the ball before some friendly match.
What is said about this case
Joan Laporta, President of FC Barcelona, said:
“Barça with more than 400 million followers in social networks is constantly opening new ways to connect with our fans, and we believe that with the Clubs new NFT strategy we found a unique opportunity to continue growing and consolidating the Barça brand”.
Jordi Cruyff, added:
“The NFT In a Way, Immortal will be forever linked to my father's legacy. He would have been fascinated to see that one of his most beautiful goals with FC Barcelona has been the inspiration to create this unique piece of digital art that we hope will be enjoyed, admired and remembered forever.”
You can read the original news by clicking here.