Pyotr Verzilov is a Russian street and performance artist, widely known for his provocative political performances. Verzilov is the husband and collaborator of Nadezda Tolokonnikova (also known as Nadya Tolokno), a Russian artist and member of the Pussy Riot feminist punk rock collective recently arrested while performing a “punk prayer" protest against authoritarianism in Moscow's Cathedral of Christ the Savior. Verzilov was a member of the Strategy 31 protests, and helped organize the Anti-Seliger and Last Autumn opposition forums. In 2012, he became a host on Network Public Television.

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On March 3, 2012, Verzilov’s wife Tolokonnikova and the other members of Pussy Riot were arrested by police and accused of performing the protest song, called “Virgin Mary, redeem us of Putin," in Moscow’s Cathedral of Christ the Savior. Tolokonnikova and Alyokhina remain in custody, charged with “aggravated hooliganism," a crime punishable by up to seven years in prison. A judge of Moscow’s Tagansky Court refused a request to release the trio on bail, and extended custody until June 24, 2012. Amnesty International declared Verzilov’s wife and Alyokhina prisoners of conscience and called for their immediate and unconditional release.