Amid the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, people in Shanghai are tapping into NFTs as a form of expression and resistance.

Shanghai's ongoing lockdown continues to bring significant interruptions to global trade, impacting supply chains and altering the day-to-day lives of those living there. People are using NFTs have emerged as a means for residents to voice their frustrations and discuss the stringent measures imposed by the Chinese authorities.

In April, China instituted a strict 'zero Covid' policy to curb a surge of infections in several cities, including Shanghai. This has led to residents being confined to their homes for extended periods, often unable to step outside even for brief walks with their pets.

In addition to the harsh lockdown conditions, the Chinese government has increased surveillance efforts, particularly on social media, to suppress any expressions of discontent among the populace.

Consequently, residents are turning to blockchain technology, minting videos, images, and other art forms to document their lockdown experiences, transforming them into NFTs.

Due to the nature of blockchain technology, which circumvents censorship, these NFTs are being shared globally and gaining traction. listed  on the top NFT marketplace OpenSea.

At present, you can find more than 1,000 NFTs related to Shanghai’s lockdown on Opensea, featuring everything from lockdown maps to complaints about curbside restrictions and even visuals from quarantine facilities.

Simon Fong, a freelance designer with a nine-year history in Shanghai, has created satirical artwork depicting lockdown life, styled after the iconic propaganda posters of Mao Tse-Tung—one of China’s most recognized historical figures and the legislative head of the Communist Party.

Fong explained, 'I opted for the Mao propaganda style because many believe the current lockdown is a significant setback for Shanghai.'

He has begun minting his illustrations as NFTs, finding success by selling nine pieces at an average price of 0.1 Ethereum, roughly $290.

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