We want to share our heartfelt thanks to David ‘Jhave’ Johnston (Nov 22nd, 2024), Postdoctoral Researcher at the Center for Digital Narrative, University of Bergen (https://cdn.uib.no/), for his invaluable support letter.
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing to strongly advocate for the continued support of the Piksel Festival. As a Canadian postdoctoral researcher currently working at the University of Bergen, I bring an international perspective to the value of this unique cultural institution.
Even a decade before arriving in Bergen, I was aware of Piksel’s reputation from Canada. While digital arts and open-source software development are not my primary field of practice, Piksel’s influence extends far beyond these domains, speaking to its extraordinary impact on global creative and technological communities.
In our current global context, where corporate interests often dominate technological
development, Piksel stands as a beacon of alternative possibilities. The festival demonstrates how technology can serve the common good through open collaboration and shared knowledge. The dedication of Piksel’s community to open-source software and art represents more than just technical innovation – it exemplifies a path toward cooperative human flourishing in our digital age.
Bergen’s support of this modest yet influential festival yields remarkable returns in international prestige and cultural significance. Consider:
● Piksel’s reputation for combining technical excellence with artistic vision
● Its role in promoting collaborative, open-source practices
● The festival’s contribution to Bergen’s identity as a forward-thinking cultural center
● Its demonstration of Norwegian commitment to innovative, accessible technology
The impact of Piksel extends far beyond what can be quantified in traditional metrics. Through its dedication to open-source principles and unselfish sharing of knowledge, Piksel helps position Bergen as a visionary city that values both technological advancement and social responsibility.
For a relatively small investment, Bergen gains recognition as a hub for progressive
technological arts and collaborative innovation. The festival serves as a model for how cities can foster cultural initiatives that have global resonance while remaining true to values of openness and cooperation.
As you consider future funding allocations, I urge you to recognize Piksel’s unique role in enhancing Bergen’s international reputation and its contribution to the global dialogue about technology’s role in society. Supporting Piksel is an investment in Bergen’s future as a leader in cultural innovation and cooperative technological practices.
Sincerely,
David ‘Jhave’ Johnston, (Nov 22nd 2024)
Postdoctoral Researcher.
Center for Digital Narrative. University of Bergen https://cdn.uib.no/
As some of you heard, Piksel’s city funding was suddenly cut without warning. Please sign our petition. Feel free to write a comment, a support letter and/or share the petition. https://www.change.org/…/petition-for-continued-support…
PIKSEL24
Piksel24 is supported by
@kulturradet
@kulturdir
@bergenkommune_ung
@vestlandfylke
@EFFEAResidencies
@digitalkunst.festival
@prohelvetia
@CultureMovesEurope
@COST
@nordiskkulturkontakt
In collaboration with
@asso_apo33
@stwst_linz
@newcontexts
@madlab_cy
@centerfordigitalnarrative
@unibergen
@cyprusuniversitytechnology
@aaltomedialab
@aaltouniversity
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