ArtsDAO and 021: A Match Made in Blockchain Heaven! 🚀

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Hold onto your hats, folks! Thesis-led venture studio 021 just snagged a controlling stake in ArtsDAO, the Middle East’s biggest Web3 community! Why? To sprinkle some blockchain magic all over Dubai! 🪄✨

According to a press release that probably cost more than my last three dinners combined, this acquisition is like adding a turbocharger to a camel! 🐪💨 021 is ready to ride the wave of ArtsDAO’s influence and help Dubai strut its stuff as a global Web3 hub. Talk about a power couple!

ArtsDAO, the brainchild that decided to mix art, culture, and blockchain like a mad scientist, has ballooned into a community of over 1,500 members! They’ve got a newsletter with 40,000 subscribers and a social media following that’s bigger than my Aunt Edna’s collection of cat memes—300,000 strong! 🐱💻 And let’s not forget the ArtsDAO Fest, which attracted 4,000 attendees and was featured in an Amazon Prime documentary. Move over, Hollywood!

Strategic expansion

In a move that’s as strategic as a game of chess played by squirrels, 021 is diving headfirst into community-driven ventures that mix culture and blockchain like peanut butter and jelly! 🥜🍇

“The acquisition aligns with 021’s broader thesis around the future of communities and membership networks. A portion of our portfolio is dedicated to building culturally relevant, community-driven ventures,” said Nigel Van Broekhoven, founder of 021. Sounds fancy, right? 😏

021 has been busier than a one-armed paper hanger, expanding its footprint in lifestyle and membership-based ventures. In 2024, they launched Midnight Club, a private members’ collective for the crème de la crème of founders, investors, and culture curators. They’ve hosted events in Miami, Singapore, Ibiza, and Dubai! 🌍 And they’re even co-building an on-chain car marketplace with Luxury Rally Club. Because who doesn’t want to connect with 4,000 car collectors? 🚗💨

“ArtsDAO has built an unparalleled Web3 community in the Middle East, and we see incredible opportunities in scaling its vision further,” said Charles Plenet de Badts, executive chairman of 021 and newly appointed chairman of ArtsDAO. “UAE’s prominence as a global Web3 hub is growing rapidly, and ArtsDAO, as the regional leader, was the logical choice for 021 to capture and contribute to that momentum.” Wow, that’s a mouthful! 🍽️

ArtsDAO leadership shifts

After this blockbuster acquisition, ArtsDAO’s leadership is getting a makeover that would make even the Kardashians jealous:

  • Charles Plenet de Badts will serve as chairman of ArtsDAO. (Fancy title alert!)
  • Danosch Zanedi, co-founder of ArtsDAO, will step down as CEO to become vice-chairman and will also join The Block as CEO. Talk about a promotion! 🎉
  • Rahim Mahtab, co-founder of ArtsDAO, is appointed president and interim CEO. He’s got this!
  • Maria Sultanova will continue in her role as chief operating officer. Because why mess with perfection?
  • Dan Rozenberg, co-founder of 021, will become head of partnerships at ArtsDAO. Partnerships are like peanut butter and jelly, folks!

“021 immediately understood the core value of ArtsDAO and is bringing the resources needed for this exciting new chapter,” said Rahim Mahtab, co-founder and interim CEO of ArtsDAO. “With 021’s backing, we can scale our impact, introduce new offerings for our members, and continue to solidify Dubai’s position as a global leader in blockchain and digital culture.” Sounds like a plan, right? 🗺️

What’s next for ArtsDAO

With 021’s backing, ArtsDAO is ready to strengthen its partnerships and expand its offerings for creators, artists, and blockchain enthusiasts. They’ve previously partnered with big names like Ledger, Etihad, BMW, Bybit, Yuga Labs, Mercedes-Benz, Doodles, and Chimpers. Yes, you heard that right—Chimpers! 🐒

021’s network and strategic resources are expected to help ArtsDAO scale its influence, introduce new membership benefits, and position itself at the forefront of blockchain and cultural innovation in the Middle East

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2025-03-21 16:14