Zora, a platform for minting non-fungible tokens (NFTs), has announced the launch of a physical version of its Zora Zine digital magazine. The new “Zora Zine Print Issue 001” will feature 2,500 copies, each backed on the blockchain by an Ethereum-based NFT and priced at 0.0777 ETH. This move may seem regressive in a world where digital media has become the preferred choice for most, but Zora believes that print media can still play an important role in advancing the values and objectives of Web3.
Yana Sosnovskaya, the head of editorial at Zora Zine, emphasizes that success isn’t just about the medium; it’s about creating value for users. In this case, the value is cultural and curatorial. According to Sosnovskaya, the physical print aims to capture the spirit of Web3 and be fascinating to revisit as time goes on, players rotate, rules change, ideas swirl, and waves of hype come and go.
The Zora Zine Print Issue 001 is not just a physical version of the digital magazine; it is an experiment in using blockchain-based solutions to decentralize and democratize the media industry. For instance, this issue will feature a “Fake Ads” project where 22 artists have come together to create fabricated Web3 products and services. Zora aims to reward each of the artists involved with an honorary fee, while monetizing their work through a series of open edition NFT mints. This way, the Web3 principles of the magazine will exist in harmony with its new physical collectibles.
This is not the first time that the magazine has experimented with decentralized technology tools to offer a share of its revenue to its contributors. Other experiments have involved crowdfunding writing gigs and allowing audiences to choose the kinds of stories they would like to see published.
The first printed edition of Zora Zine focuses on the theme of “Intergenerational Dynamics” outlined in 250 pages. The issue features over 60 contributors, including well-known figures within the tech industry such as Kevin Kelly, executive editor of Wired, Jaron Lanier, computer philosopher and futurist, and many others.
Zora believes that its foray into the print media space is an exciting new frontier for the Web3 movement. By experimenting with new tools and mediums, Zora seeks to distinguish itself from other blockchain-based companies and become the go-to platform for creators and collectors alike.
The Zora Zine Print Issue 001 is now available for purchase through the application of NFTs. Each copy is priced at 0.0777 ETH, and there is a limit of 10 copies per wallet. Zora hopes that this new physical collectible will appeal to its existing fanbase and attract new enthusiasts to the Web3 community.
In conclusion, Zora’s move into the print media space may seem counterintuitive in a digital age, but it reflects the platform’s commitment to experimentation and innovation. By combining the traditional medium of print with cutting-edge blockchain-based solutions, Zora hopes to offer a unique and valuable experience to its users. Zora’s decision to launch a physical version of its digital magazine underscores the growing interest in combining real-world experiences with the principles of Web3. As the Web3 movement continues to gain momentum, we may see more innovative projects like Zora Zine Print Issue 001 taking shape in the years to come.
