An international festival for society, electronic art and open-source code and technological freedom. This year festival focus on the vital connections between ecology, technology and art. We’re presenting special programs, exhibitions, and happenings that move between soil regeneration, digital ecologies, sonic experimentation and much more.
Join us in bringing this vibrant event to life by volunteering in one of the following areas:
Rigging
Camera/Documentation
Exhibition Hosts
Kitchen (simple serving)
Runners/Tech Support
If you’re ready to dive in and be part of something special, we’d love to have you on board!
PIKSEL25 20-23 Nov – Bergen – Norway
Piksel is an international festival for electronic art and technological freedom and involves participants from more than a dozen countries exchanging ideas, coding, presenting art and software projects, doing workshops, performances, and discussions on the aesthetics and politics of free technologies.
You will receive a festival pass with full access to all our events, a festival t-shirt and poster, a work certificate, and an experience for life!
We are excited to announce the call for projects for the 23nd edition of the Piksel Festival!
Piksel will again go hybrid this year, so we welcome ideas for both online and physical collaborative activities. We are also interested in projects that involve the virtual gallery IDLE. If you are a 3D artist, live coder, or feel inspired by the virtual environment IDLE (Inclusive Digital Laboratory for Experimental Art), we would love to hear your ideas. IDLE includes a virtual gallery that mimics the physical Piksel Studio 207 and is connected to the IDLE IoT system, with lights, screens, and a sound system controlled by the internet (Internet of Things system). Learn more at https://idle.piksel.no/.
To make the most of our resources and create a more sustainable event, we are extending the exhibition period from the festival dates until mid-December. We encourage you to present art installations that can be built in Bergen to minimize international transport, aligning with our green strategy. Due to limited resources, we will prioritize projects from individual artists or artist collectives that can explore a specific theme through multiple artworks and workshops. We warmly encourage artists to apply to different open tracks, as this will help us better understand the full scope of your work.
Please feel free to submit your projects to any of the open tracks: presentations, workshops, concerts, installations, and PikselSavers.
Piksel offers travel to Norway, accommodation, and meals during the festival and the setup days in advance to help you realize your project.
We look forward to receiving your submissions!
!!!!!!!!!! Deadline — October 31st 2025 !!!!!!!!!!
For the exhibition and other parts of the program we currently seek projects in the following categories:
1. Installations Projects to be included in the exhibitions. The works must be realized by the use of free and open source technologies. For Piksel25 we specially encourage projects in the field of DIY BIOart and renewable/sustainable technologies to apply.
2. Audiovisual performance Live art realized by the use of free software and/or open/DIY hardware. If you are a 3D artist/live coder or feel inspired by the virtual environment IDLE, Inclusive Digital Laboratory for Experimental Art, we would like to hear your ideas. IDLE consists of a virtual gallery, mimicking the physical Piksel Studio 207 and the IDLE IoT system, lights, screen and sound system controlled by internet (Internet of Things). https://idle.piksel.no/
3. Presentations Innovative DIY/open hardware and audiovisual software tools or software art released under a free/open license. (Also includes presentations of artistic projects realized using free/open technologies.) For Piksel25 we specially encourage projects in the field of DIY BIOart and renewable/sustainable technologies to apply.
4. Workshops Hands on workshops utilizing free software and/or open/DIY hardware for artistic use. For Piksel25 we specially encourage projects in the field of DIY BIOart and renewable/sustainable technologies to apply.
5. PikselSavers Video and software art based on the screensaver format – short audiovisual (non)narratives made for endless looping. Possible thematic fields includes but are not limited to: sustainable resource allocation, renewable technologies, energy harvesting, fair trade hardware, free content, open access, open data, DIY economy, shared development. The works must be realized by the use of free/open source technologies.
—
Piksel is an international festival for electronic art and technological freedom. Part workshop, part festival, it is organised in Bergen, Norway, and involves participants from more than a dozen countries exchanging ideas, coding, presenting art and software projects, doing workshops, performances and discussions on the aesthetics and politics of art and free technologies. Piksel25 is supported by the Municipality of Bergen, Arts Council Norway, Vestland Fylkeskommune and others.
Piksel is proud to present DIY Thread, a curated exploration of the do-it-yourself tradition in electronic art, at STWST48x11: FOG MANIFESTO. The program premieres during Ars Electronica, September 3–7, in Linz, Austria.
DIY Thread traces connections between art, activism, and technology by revisiting 23 years of the Piksel archive. It highlights projects where artists took tools into their own hands—modifying, reinventing, or even destroying technology to open new cultural and political perspectives.
From the playful to the critical, DIY Thread reveals how artists engage with media, software, and hardware as materials for experimentation and resistance.
Themes from the Archive
The showcase is organized around thematic strands that reflect the breadth of Piksel’s history:
DIY Radio – hands-on broadcasting and independent media
Performative Coding & Code Art – live code as performance and artform
DIY Bioart – merging biology with creative practice
Self-Destructive Hardware – devices that resist permanence
Radical Networks – alternative infrastructures and community-driven systems
Electronic Literature & Critical AI – writing machines and questioning algorithms
Together, these works highlight how critical art, joy, and science continue to intersect within the Piksel community.
Huge thanks to everyone who came out yesterday for the opening of Solar4Rain: an atmospheric PUNK symbiosis!
The exhibition is now live and welcomes all curious minds from Thursday to Sunday, 12:00–17:00.
Can we send rain to Spain and get the sun back to Bergen?
Solar4Rain is not just an exhibition—it’s a sci-fi vision of a world where humanity embraces equitable, sustainable, and symbiotic relationships with nature and technology.
Step into this atmospheric PUNK narrative and imagine a future that flows differently.
Piksel Festival is approaching, taking place from November 21-24, and we need enthusiastic volunteers to help make this electronic art festival a success!
We are looking for volunteers for both preparing and rigging the days before the opening of the festival and volunteers that can help us during the festival.
Date: Torsdag 26. september 2024 Time: 19:00 – 21:00 Place: Studio 207, Strandgaten 207, Bergen
Rob La Frenais in Bergen We are excited to welcome curator and performance artist Rob La Frenais to Piksel Studio during his stay in Bergen. On September 26th, during our Stormy Thursday event, Rob will host an informal, free talk on the concept of slow travel.
Rob La Frenais, a writer and curator for over 40 years, has returned to artistic practice. He founded Performance Magazine in 1979 and was curator of The Arts Catalyst (1997-2014).
For Stormy Thursdays, he will discuss his recent slow-travel journey, part of Rewilding Cultures, retracing his 2019 route between France and Finland, focusing on changes since the pandemic and the effects of climate change. He will also screen the Let The Birds Have The Skies video.
Join Stormy Thursdays 26th September 19:00 – 21:00 to listen in on Robs thoughts.
Piksel brings IDLE to Ars Electronica’s STWST48x10 NOPE, September 6-8, 2024
Piksel is pleased to announce our participation in STWST48x10 NOPE, part of the Ars Electronica festival, taking place from September 6 to 8, 2024, in Linz, Austria. This year, Piksel will showcase IDLE, our digital platform designed for collaborative art and live performance, both as an exhibition and a presentation.
Accessible at idle.piksel.no, IDLE offers a space for visitors to engage in creative exploration, including live visual performances in the cyber salon and collaborative music-making through avatar interactions in the virtual street and left room. The platform’s virtual instruments, based on Hydra live coding for visuals and Strudel live coding for music, make it easy for users to engage with digital art tools.
IDLE features contributions from artists like Flor de Fuego, Blaz Pavlica, Malitzin Cortés, and Iván Abreu, whose works enhance the interactive experience with seamless integration of digital and physical projections. Piksel will also participate in the “NOPE Sound Performances and Talk,” a segment dedicated to the intersection of sound, performance, and digital art.
We are excited to announce the call for projects for the 22nd edition of the Piksel Festival!
Piksel will go hybrid again this year, so we welcome ideas for both online and physical collaborative activities. We are also interested in projects that involve the virtual gallery IDLE. If you are a 3D artist, live coder, or feel inspired by the virtual environment IDLE (Inclusive Digital Laboratory for Experimental Art), we would love to hear your ideas. IDLE includes a virtual gallery that mimics the physical Piksel Studio 207 and is connected to the IDLE IoT system, with lights, screens, and a sound system controlled by the internet (Internet of Things system). Learn more at https://idle.piksel.no/.
To make the most of our resources and create a more sustainable event, we are extending the exhibition period from the festival dates until mid-December. We encourage you to present art installations that can be built in Bergen to minimize international transport, aligning with our green strategy. Due to limited resources, we will prioritize projects from individual artists or artist collectives that can explore a specific theme through multiple artworks and workshops. We warmly encourage artists to apply to different open tracks, as this will help us better understand the full scope of your work.
Please feel free to submit your projects to any of the open tracks: presentations, workshops, concerts, installations, and PikselSavers.
Piksel offers travel to Norway, accommodation, and meals during the festival and the setup days in advance to help you realize your project.
We look forward to receiving your submissions!
!!!!!!!!!! Deadline — September 1st 2024 !!!!!!!!!! Please use the online submit form at: https://pretalx.com/piksel24/
—
Piksel is an international festival for electronic art and technological freedom. Part workshop, part festival, it is organised in Bergen, Norway, and involves participants from more than a dozen countries exchanging ideas, coding, presenting art and software projects, doing workshops, performances and discussions on the aesthetics and politics of art and free technologies.
open CALL for PROJECTS
For the exhibition and other parts of the program we currently seek projects in the following categories:
1. Installations Projects to be included in the exhibitions. The works must be realized by the use of free and open source technologies. For Piksel24 we specially encourage projects in the field of DIY BIOart and renewable/sustainable technologies to apply.
2. Audiovisual performance Live art realized by the use of free software and/or open/DIY hardware. If you are a 3D artist/live coder or feel inspired by the virtual environment IDLE, Inclusive Digital Laboratory for Experimental Art, we would like to hear your ideas. IDLE consists of a virtual gallery, mimicking the physical Piksel Studio 207 and the IDLE IoT system, lights, screen and sound system controlled by internet (Internet of Things). https://idle.piksel.no/
3. Presentations Innovative DIY/open hardware and audiovisual software tools or software art released under a free/open license. (Also includes presentations of artistic projects realized using free/open technologies.) For Piksel24 we specially encourage projects in the field of DIY BIOart and renewable/sustainable technologies to apply.
4. Workshops Hands on workshops utilizing free software and/or open/DIY hardware for artistic use. For Piksel24 we specially encourage projects in the field of DIY BIOart and renewable/sustainable technologies to apply.
5. PikselSavers Video and software art based on the screensaver format – short audiovisual (non)narratives made for endless looping. Possible thematic fields includes but are not limited to: sustainable resource allocation, renewable technologies, energy harvesting, fair trade hardware, free content, open access, open data, DIY economy, shared development. The works must be realized by the use of free/open source technologies.
—
Piksel24 is supported by the Municipality of Bergen, Arts Council Norway, Vestland fylkeskommune and others.
Date: Saturday May 25th Time: 15:00 to 18:00 Location: Piksel Studio 207, Strandgaten 207, 5055 Bergen Duration: 3 hours (including break) Language: English (with Norwegian-speaking assistant present) For artists and the general public (10 years and older) Cost: Free Led by Artists: María Castellanos and Alberto Valverde
Plants exhibit remarkable responsiveness to their environment, reacting to stimuli from humans, other organisms, objects, and various environmental factors such as temperature, sound, and light.
In this workshop, led by the artists María Castellanos and Alberto Valverde , sensors are utilized to monitor the plant’s surroundings in real-time, facilitated by a bespoke web platform tailored for this project. Through this exploration, we aim to deepen our understanding of the intricate interactions between plants and their environment, fostering awareness of the shared coexistence between living entities.
To reserve a place, send an email to piksel24(at)piksel.no with the subject line: Piksel Workshop – Monitoring the Environment of Plants. Kindly include in the email the names of all participants you are registering.
Exhibition – “Silent Vegetal Thoughts” – by María Castellanos and Alberto Valverde May 24th – June 28th @ Studio 207, Strandgaten 207, Bergen.
Exhibition Opening May 24th 18:00- 22:00 @ Studio 207. Exhibition Period: May 25th – June 28th Opening Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 12:00-18:00
Ever wondered what goes on in the minds of the plants surrounding us?
In this site-specific installation at the Studio 207, plants take control of the environment by manipulating technological elements such as lights, sounds, and mechanical systems created with relays, including the Piksel studio’s internet-controlled lighting system.
Entering the exhibition, visitors becomes mere spectators, detecting patterns in plant behavior through observation.
The Exhibition opening takes place May 24th 18:00- 22:00 @ Studio 207.
No tagsComments Off on Silent Vegetal Thoughtsmore...
In the month of May and June, Piksel once again invite the general public, artists and thinkers alike to attend a series of interesting activities during the Piksel Fest Spill.
Satellite event in Bergen produced for the International conference for Live Coding in Shanghai (ICLC). International performance by Blaž Pavlica (SL) and Flor de fuego (AR/DE) Live Event at the Piksel Cyber Salon and at Studio 207 in Bergen. (https://idle.piksel.no)
\\\+///
June 20th
15-18h IDLE Virtual Instruments Workshops
18h: Art Experiences Performances with General public performances. High Schools students, art students and general public.
\\\+///
June 28th
20 h: Exhibition Program Closure
22 h: Final JAM IDLE Performance
\\\+///
No tagsComments Off on Piksel Fest Spill 2024more...
21st Discovering Plant Magic: A Sensory Adventure with Soft Sensors for KidZ
Duration: 3 hours. The workshop repeats two days: When: Tuesday 21st from 17:00 to 20:00 for individual kids and parents. Age: 10-18 years old. Place: Studio 207, Strandgaten 207, 5004 Bergen To secure a spot, send us an email to piksel24(AT)piksel.no with the Subject line: Piksel Kidz. Remember to include the day and time you wish to sign up for as well as name and age of participants!
“Discovering Plant Magic,” is an workshop where kids will embark on a captivating journey into the world of plants using soft sensors and IoT technology. In this hands-on experience, we’ll explore the incredible abilities of plants and create “soft sensors” to unveil the secrets of their hidden language.
Introduction to Plant Power:
Uncover the wonders of plant life and learn how they harness energy through photosynthesis.
Understand the interconnectedness of ecosystems and why plants are essential for our planet’s health.
The Magic of Soft Sensors: Dive into the concept of soft sensors – flexible, adaptable devices that can measure changes in their environment. Explore how these soft sensors mimic the sensitivity of plants, making them perfect companions for our green adventure.
Connecting Plants with Soft Sensors and IoT: Participants witness the transformation as we connect soft sensors to plants, turning them into interactive, data-sharing companions. Learn the basics of IoT technology and understand how it enables communication and collaboration between devices.
Hands-On Exploration: The workshop engages in interactive activities to create own soft sensors to communicate with plants, collecting data on their responses to the environment.
Imaginative Creations: Collaborate with others to dream up imaginative scenarios where soft sensors and plants work together harmoniously. Think together about how this technology can be used to create a more sustainable and interconnected world.
Participants will gain a deeper appreciation for the intelligence and sensitivity of both plants and soft sensors. They will understand the basics of IoT and how it enables devices to communicate and collaborate seamlessly. All while they explore the potential for innovative, eco-friendly technologies inspired by the harmony between nature and soft sensors.
A workshop that seamlessly merges art, creativity, and eco-friendly technologies is immensely important for children’s development. This interdisciplinary approach offers a holistic learning experience, engaging kids on multiple levels and encouraging them to explore scientific concepts through hands-on activities. By stimulating imagination and fostering creativity, the workshop provides a space for children to think innovatively and express themselves.
In essence, a workshop that combines art, creativity, and eco-friendly technologies provides a dynamic and enriching learning experience. The hands-on exploration of creating soft sensors and delving into eco-friendly technologies nurtures children with valuable skills and environmental consciousness.
LIVE CODING
June 7th Create your own show with live coding visuals. LIVE Coding!
Duration: 3 hours. When: June 7th from 10:00 to 13:00 Age: 10-18 years old. Place: Studio 207, Strandgaten 207, 5004 Bergen To secure a spot, send us an email to piksel24(AT)piksel.no with the Subject line: Piksel Kidz. Remember to include the day and time you wish to sign up for as well as name and age of participants!
The internet is full of open-source and free software that we can use to create exciting sound and visuals. This workshop for children aged 14ish will introduce Live coding to the kids. Live coding is an audio visual performance practice that revolves around the creation and modification of code and algorithms in real-time.
Throughout the 3 hours workshop the kids will experiment programming with very simple code sounds and visuals. The workshop intends to de-mystify technology and reveal its design decisions, limitations, and creative potential. Kids will produce a final performance all together at the end of the workshop.
In this workshop, attendees will be introduced to Hydra – a live coding environment created by Olivia Jack. Using live programming, they will have the opportunity to explore image and camera manipulation and create unique visuals. Additionally, we will discuss the various formats where video plays a crucial role, such as live concerts, art installations, and music videos.
Hydra is a web-based video synthesizer. Olivia describes live coding as writing code in real time to make visuals and/or music as part of a performance. Originally begun as a series of explorations in the browser, Hydra is now used by a large community of live coding performers who perform in clubs and other venues, as well as in online streamed performances throughout the pandemic. There are many resources for getting started with Hydra, and a number of spin-off projects including PIXELJAM, also by Olivia, which allows multiple performers to do live coding together. There are also periodic online meetups where live coders worldwide meet up to talk and show off their works created with Hydra.
Hydra is live code-able video synth and coding environment that runs directly in the browser. It is free and open-source and made for beginners and experts alike.
Hydra can be used:
to mix and add effects to camera feeds, screenshares, live streams, and videos
to create generative and audio-reactive visuals, and share them online with others
in combination with other javascript libraries such as P5.js, Tone.js, THREE.js, or gibber
to add interactive video effects to a website
to experiment with and learn about video feedback, fractals, and pixel operations
to stream video between browsers and live-jam with others online
workshopComments Off on PIKSEL Kidz Lab 2024 – Plants & Soft Sensors / LIVE CODINGmore...
Piksel25November 20-23 2025Bergen, Norway Dear friends, We are excited to announce the call for projects for the 23nd edition of the Piksel Festival! We look forward to receiving your submissions! !! Deadline -- October 31st 2025 !! Please use the online submit form at: https://pretalx.com/piksel25/
🌫✨ FOG MANIFESTO at STWST84x11 Piksel’s DIY Thread premieres during Ars Electronica 2025 in Linz, Austria (Sept 3–7). Thanks to STWST for inviting Piksel 🤝Stadtwerkstatt explores fog as material, medium, and network — Piksel responds with a deep-dive into 23 years of DIY electronic art, tracing radical practices from DIY radio to critical AI installations. This is a journey through Piksel’s archive — a living history of critical art, joy, and science.Check: piksel.no & https://newcontext.stwst.at/!stwst48x11/en/diy_thread
🎛✨ Electropixel15 — We’re excited to share that from August 27–30 in Nantes, Piksel’s Maite Cajaraville (Madrid) and Gisle Frøysland (Bergen) are joining an international constellation of artists exploring care ethics, counter-narratives, and creative resistance.🌱 Workshops, forums, and performances will connect artistic practice with the politics of technological freedom.📍 More info: https://electropixel.orgCOST-funded Action TOOLKIT OF CARE (TOC)#Electropixel15 #ToolkitOfCare #PikselArt
We want to share a look back at the First Supper Symposium, where we joined an inspiring day of talks and perspectives on how AI is affecting artists today — from appropriation to obfuscation, from closed to open models.As Piksel, we brought forward the work of artists who have exhibited with us and whose practices go beyond generative image AI — engaging ith AI in more intimate, critical, and often unexpected ways. We shared works by Laura McCarthy, Marta Revuelta and Scott Rettberg.#aiart
