Base Creator Jesse Pollak Apologizes for Sharing Controversial Art
Jesse Pollak, the creator of Ethereum Layer-2 network Base, has issued a public apology after facing backlash for resharing digital artwork that many found offensive.
The artwork played off Base’s inclusive tagline—“Base is for everyone”—but included controversial terms that triggered criticism across social media.
“It was a single phrase among many, but I’ll own this was a mistake and apologize,” Pollak said in an April 18 post on X.
Artwork Included Controversial Phrases
The image in question featured a rotating GIF with the phrase “Base is for…” followed by a sequence of words. While some terms were neutral or creative—like “art,” “minting,” and “ideas”—others, such as “pimping” and “squirting,” sparked backlash for being inappropriate.
Pollak clarified that the artwork was created by an independent artist and not by him, but acknowledged that resharing it was an error in judgment. He specifically apologized for the inclusion of the phrase “Base is for pimping.”
Supporting Artists While Maintaining Responsibility
Pollak expressed his appreciation for edgy and provocative art, especially from creators building on Base, but acknowledged the responsibility that comes with his public platform.
“This isn’t about censorship,” he implied, “but about understanding how messages can be interpreted—especially when they seem to come directly from leadership.”
The incident highlights the fine line between creative expression and brand messaging in crypto communities—especially when projects aim to welcome a broad, diverse user base.
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