Un/gleich/zeitig: Capturing Digital Spaces – Acquisition, Self-Empowerment, Resistance?

Who do the digital stages belong to? Social media networks, search engines, games, online platforms – the majority of digital spaces are dominated by large digital companies. For many years, however, more and more artists have acquired digital skills and tools in order to be able to jointly shape digital realities. They have developed their own software and hardware applications, designed virtual platforms, adapted digital narrative strategies and have explored the subversive potential of digital communication methods. In light of global radicalization processes and the increasing use of digital spaces by rightwing populist actors, it is even more relevant to share artistic knowledge and strategies for digital self-empowerment.

In this round table discussion, experts within the (post)digital performing arts and the political gaming community will provide insights into their work over the course of brief keynote presentations. After this, they will enter into conversation with the participants: what challenges do artists encounter in digital spaces? What subversive potential exists in the artistic examination of TikTok, social virtual reality or games? How can (post)digital artists remain visible in light of the shrinking funding resources?

After this, the synergies existing in the Berlin will be bundled: together with Susanne Schuster from the media and performance group OutOfTheBox, there is the opportunity to found the work group (Post)Digitalism as Artistic Practice. This work group has the goal of addressing the challenges of artists working (post)-digitally, sharing knowledge and developing joint strategies for a sustainable and long-term strengthening of the (post)digital independent performing arts. More information about the initial ideas and about a planned launch meeting will be shared during the event with everyone who is interested.

In German and English spoken language.

With Katharina Haverich (performance and media artist), Caspar Weimann (onlinetheater.live) and Severin Schwalb (Good Gaming – Well Played Democracy, Amadeu Antonio Stiftung)

Moderation: Susanne Schuster (OutOfTheBox)

Susanne Schuster has worked in the independent performing arts at the intersection of digital and performative art as a dramaturg and curator since 2014. Together with Ricardo Gehn, she is the artistic director of the media and performance group OutOfTheBox.