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.

Welcome to the Piksel Satellite Performance Event for ICLC the 2024 International Conference on Live Coding (ICLC), Shanghai 2024.

The International Conference on Live Coding (ICLC) is a global platform dedicated to exploring technologies and philosophies interpreting computer code as gesture within live performances. Hosted by NYU Shanghai, ICLC fosters dialogue and innovation within the live coding community worldwide.

On June 8^th guest artists Blaž Pavlica from Slovenia and Flor de Fuego based in Germany, perform the virtual instrument through Hydra instances live coding within IDLE, the Inclusive Digital Laboratory for Experimental Art at Studio 207 in Bergen.

Date: June 8th
Time: 23:00-00:00 CEST
Where: Studio 207, Strandgaten 207, Bergen and Online -> https://www.twitch.tv/pikselfest
Entrance: Free

The Inclusive Digital Laboratory for Experimental Art (IDLE), based in Studio 207, Bergen, is an innovative art project focused on making art more accessible via the internet. Initiated by Piksel, IDLE has undergone significant development, including the establishment of a virtual gallery, integration of IoT systems into Studio 207, and the creation of virtual audio and visual instruments for remote performances. https://idle.piksel.org/

IDLE innovative virtual instruments: IDLE is inviting local and international artists to challenge IDLE’s performing possibilities. During the EFFEA residency last year, guest artists Blaž and Flor de Fuego, contributed to create a virtual instrument. On June 8^th they will perform at the collaborative playground in the virtual gallery and extend its influence to the physical Studio 207.

Virtual Instruments are abstract instruments in the virtual space that can be musical or visual and they work taking into account the position of the avatars in the space, or their interaction with others. Collaborative interactions affect the physical and virtual gallery changing the color of the led lights, or applying different visual and audio effects over both venues.

Artists, art students and audiovisual performers are welcome to participate in the workshops to learn how to use the virtual instruments and create new performances using the developed tools. Join us the 13^th and 20^th of june. Participants will perform right after the workshops on public events!

Full program Live Coding at Piksel Fest Spill 2024

June 8^th 23-24h: 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 TV Channel (https://www.twitch.tv/pikselfest) and at Studio 207 in Bergen. ()

June 13^th, 20^th:
15-18h IDLE Virtual Instruments Workshops for art students, artists and general public.
18h: Art Experiences Performances featuring by the participants.

June 28^th:
20 h: Exhibition Program Closure
22 h: Final JAM IDLE Performance

Bergen, Norway – May and June 2024

Piksel Fest Spill Returns to Bergen, Celebrating Art, Technology, and Ecology (PDF)

Piksel Fest Spill, a cornerstone of electronic arts and free technology, is set to make its return to Bergen this May and June. Dedicated to democratizing technology and empowering artists, Piksel endeavors to create a space where creativity thrives, fueled by the power of open-source tools.

The festival’s program delves into the realms of DIY Bioart, exploring the intersection of art, science, and technology. Against the backdrop of pressing environmental challenges, artists converge to address themes like biological diversity, climate change, and symbiosis through experimentation and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Central to the festival is the inclusion of groundbreaking artists like María Castellanos and Alberto Valverde, who explore plant communication through the internet and neural networks. Piksel, recognizing their disruptive work, invites them to present a site-specific artwork at Studio 207, along with workshops targeting diverse audiences.

In addition, Piksel’s Inclusive Digital Laboratory for Experimental Art (IDLE) continues its transformative journey, democratizing art through internet accessibility. With the forthcoming IDLE version 1.0, the project aims to connect a VR gallery with IoT systems, fostering interdisciplinary networks and engaging diverse communities through workshops and performances.

Highlighting the festival’s international resonance, Piksel hosts an ICLC Satellite Event on June 8th at Studio 207, presenting IDLE to the global live coding scene. This collaboration with the International Conference of Live Coding in Shanghai amplifies Bergen’s artistic offerings, synchronizing electronic art and new media with FestSpill.

Piksel Fest Spill 2024 promises to be a dynamic celebration of art, technology, and ecology, embodying Piksel’s commitment to artistic freedom, technological innovation, and environmental consciousness.

For media inquiries, please contact:

[Ina Glosli / ina(at)piksel(dot)no]

About Piksel:
Piksel is a pioneering platform dedicated to democratizing technology and empowering artists through open-source tools. With a focus on electronic arts and free technology, Piksel fosters creativity, experimentation, and collaboration in Bergen and beyond.

About IDLE:
The Inclusive Digital Laboratory for Experimental Art (IDLE) is a multidisciplinary project initiated by Piksel, dedicated to democratizing art through internet accessibility. Through virtual galleries, workshops, and performances, IDLE engages diverse communities in creative exploration and collaboration.

About the International Conference of Live Coding (ICLC):
ICLC is a global platform dedicated to exploring technologies and philosophies interpreting computer code as gesture within live performances. Hosted by NYU Shanghai, ICLC fosters dialogue and innovation within the live coding community worldwide.

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.

21^st
Discovering Plant Magic: A Sensory Adventure with Soft Sensors for KidZ

Duration: 3 hours. The workshop repeats two days:
When: Tuesday 21^st 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.

June 7^th
Create your own show with live coding visuals. LIVE Coding!

Duration: 3 hours.
When: June 7^th 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

Stormy Thursdays – Exploring the Convergence of Art and Free/Libre Technologies. Open workshops.

We are delighted to invite you to “Stormy Thursdays,” a series of interactive workshops where we delve into the intersection of art and free/libre technologies, fostering a serene space for exploration and creativity.

Discover the Art-Tech Connection: Immerse yourself in the serene blend of artistic expression and free/libre technologies, where innovation takes a tranquil form.

Participate, Craft, Share: These workshops prioritize hands-on engagement. Join us to participate actively, craft your projects, and share your creations with a community of like-minded individuals.

Free/Libre Technologies: Embrace the philosophy of open-source tools. Learn about free/libre technologies and contribute to a collaborative space of knowledge sharing.

Event Details:

Date: Every Thursday / January and February 2024
Time: 17-20 h
Venue: Studio 207, Strandgaten 207, Bergen

What to Anticipate:

Interactive Workshops
Live Demonstrations
Collaborative Project Showcases
Casual Networking with Creative Minds

Who Should Attend:

Artists
Tech Enthusiasts
Creatives
Those intrigued by the intersection of art and technology

RSVP Today: Send us an email to piksel24(at)piksel(dot)no

Let Thursdays become a canvas for peaceful creativity, an avenue for thoughtful exploration. We look forward to a serene collaboration of art and technology. See you there.

We are honored to host the Goodiepal performance at Studio 207 on Sunday 17th of December 2023. A unique opportunity to know this enigmatic and influential figure of the experimental music in Bergen.

Goodiepal: The Enigmatic Sound Pioneer

Goodiepal, born as Parl Kristian Bjørn Vester, is an avant-garde composer, electronic musician, and multi-disciplinary artist hailing from Denmark. Born on September 11, 1974, in Rønne, Goodiepal has become a fascinating figure in the realm of experimental music.

Known for his eccentric approach to sound and performance, Goodiepal has spent decades pushing the boundaries of traditional music genres.

Goodiepal’s sonic journey is a kaleidoscope of influences, ranging from electronic beats to avant-garde compositions. He has carved out a unique niche in the music scene, blending technology with a deep appreciation for the avant-garde. His performances are unpredictable, immersive experiences that challenge the norms of conventional music.

In addition to his work as a musician, Goodiepal introduced the concept of Radical Computer Music in response to the prevalent Scandinavian practice of categorizing notated music as “serious music.” Seeking to redefine the relationship between humans and machines, he advocates for communicating with computers using newly created languages. According to Goodiepal, this novel linguistic approach has the potential to elevate the man-machine relationship to a higher level, fostering innovation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of computer music.

Goodiepal remains an enigmatic and influential figure, leaving an indelible mark on the world of experimental music. His creative spirit continues to inspire those who seek to explore the limitless possibilities of sound and expression.

#RadicalComputerMusic #Innovation #ManMachineRelationship

https://komponistbasen.dk/node/8812#1

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goodiepal

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radical_Computer_Music

The Piksel (no) festival tours have been cancelled, the festival activities will proceed as programmed on Thursday and Saturday, with the exception of the tours around the city and Rare Earth Walks with Max Dovey – Piksel Kidz.

Please follow our webpage and social media for updates.

Thursday 23.11:

Piksel (NO) Festival opening Studio 207 18:30-23:00

18:30 DJ Performance Anders G.

21:00 Piksel festival activities presentation

• IDLE presentation: “Discovery artists” EFEEA residency artists Flor de Fuego and Blaž Pavlica who have developed an unique visual instrument for the Web Virtual Reality (WebVR) environment IDLE using the live coding framework Hydra.
• Presentation of the exhibition “A knock from below heard at the bottom” from Polina Medvedeva and the artistic director Julie Lillelien Porter from Lydgalleriet.

22:00 Open studio207 • Open decks • Open Beamer
Showcase of Free/Libre & Open Source New Media/ DIY/OSHW / Electronic Art

Saturday 25.11: Piksel (NO) Festival “Discovery artists” EFEEA IDLE Performance.

21:00 Open studio207 • Open decks • Open Beamer
Showcase of Free/Libre & Open Source New Media / DIY/OSHW / Electronic
Art

22:00 PIKSEL (NO) Festival is presenting the “Discovery artists” EFEEA
residency artists Flor de Fuego and Blaž Pavlica, IDLE Performance

23:00 Open studio207 • Open decks • Open Beamer Showcase of Free/Libre
& Open Source New Media/ DIY/OSHW / Electronic Art

For more info:
https://no.piksel.no

Dear Collaborators and Community,

With mixed emotions, we announce the conclusion of our collaborations with the guest curators for the 2023 edition of the Piksel Festival. Due to increasing differences regarding the scope of their involvement, we feel that the only way of moving forward and still keep the integrity of the Piksel Festival is to end our collaboration at this point.

The Piksel (no) festival is still happening, festival activities will proceed as programmed on Thursday and Saturday, with the exception of the tours around the city.

Please follow our webpage and social media for updates.

We express our gratitude to the curators for their contributions and dedication throughout our time together. Additionally, we want to thank the artists included in the program and apologize for this last-minute decision and any inconvenience it may cause.

We remain committed to fostering creativity and excellence in our endeavors, and we eagerly anticipate new opportunities and partnerships that align with our vision and values.

Thank you for your continued support.

Piksel Kidz – LIVE Coding with HYDRA.

Another round of Piksel Kidz is right around the corner! From Tuesday 28th of November until Friday 1st of December kids, parents, youngsters and adults are welcome to studio 207 where the digital-craft artist Florencia Alonso (Flor de Fuego) will guide the group on tips and tricks of Live coding using the open source software Hydra.

In 2015, Piksel Festival, the Bergen festival focusing on new media art and open digital culture, introduced Piksel KidZ Lab, an artistic laboratory for kids to understand and build new media artworks. After 9 years of experience working with kids and technology, the program is rooted in the autumn schools program. Piksel KidZ Lab will be held in Bergen during the autumn of 2023.

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.

Duration: 4 hours.
The workshop repeats every day in 2 possible schedules:
mornings from 10:00 to 13:00 for schools
late afternoon from 16:00-19:00 for individual kids

Age: 10-88 years old. Parents and young adults are also welcome!

Place: Studio 207, Strandgaten 207, 5004 Bergen

To secure a spot, send us an email to piksel23(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!

Piksel Cyber Salons: A Brief History

The inception of Piksel Cyber Salons can be traced back to 2020, a year marked by the rapid emergence of new ways to connect in response to the global pandemic. While virtual reality (VR) was not a novel concept, WebVR became more accessible and easier to develop, aligning well with the prevailing spirit of the times.

Piksel FestSpil 2020 – COPY PASTE

The inaugural Piksel Cyber Salon took place during the Piksel FestSpil in 2020, curated by Antonio Roberts. Its aim was to embrace the essence of digital artworks that could only be exhibited in the digital realm. Artists Matthew Plummer-Fernandez and Julien Deswaef presented glitchy collages of random objects sourced from freely accessible 3D online repositories, resulting in a peculiar landscape.

The Piksel Cyber Salon was part of the Ars Electrónica Garden BERGEN

You can explore the salon here: Link to Piksel FestSpil Cyber Salon.

GLOCAL, Piksel Cyber Salon 2020 Piksel Festival

The second Piksel Cyber Salon, held in 2021, experimented with the festival’s slogan letters, transforming the salon into an electronic literature saloon. Created by artist Malitzin Cortés (CNDSD), each artwork was linked to ring-shaped sculptures, and curated video programs played continuously on various screens. A live connection was established with the festival in Bergen.

Explore the salon here: Link to GLOCAL Cyber Salon.

Piksel 21, Reboot Me Softly

The third Piksel Cyber Salon, known as Piksel 21, embraced a semi-dark environment, symbolizing our gradual emergence from the global outbreak. Alongside digital sculptures created by 3D artist, creative coder, and sound artist Santiago Ramírez Camarena, the Cyber Salon served as a virtual arena for following the festival’s streaming activities. A TV studio was set up at Piksel to facilitate streaming, attracting newcomers to the world of streaming and expanding the content.

Visit the salon here: Link to Piksel 21 Cyber Salon.

PikselXX, AI, AI, AI

Marking 20 years of New Media Art and Free/Libre technologies in Norway, Piksel XX featured a seminar, special projects, an extensive exhibition, concerts, performances, artist presentations, and workshops. The fourth Piksel Cyber Salon served as a hub for experiencing all these events. Furthermore, the development of the new Cyber Salon aimed to establish a more profound connection with physical spaces. This led to the creation and premiere of IDLE in November 2022. Learn more about the IDLE project here: IDLE Project Details.

To enter the Piksel Cyber Salon, follow this link: Piksel Cyber Salon.

Enjoy your visit!

IDLE Inclusive Digital Laboratory for Experimental Art

As a part of our ongoing project Inclusive Digital Laboratory for Experimental Art (IDLE), Piksel is hosting an information meeting/ workshop.

Friday May 26th, 12:00 – 14:00
Studio 207, Strandgaten 207, Bergen
Tools needed: Own Laptop and Headphones

Open to anyone interested in creative and innovative digital solutions for the inclusion of people with reduced mobility/functionality.

The meeting will include a presentation of IDLE so far, an exploration of Piksel Cyber Salon, and end with a small workshop on how to navigate and utilize opportunities available on this platform.

The goal for the evening is to inspire participants to take further part in the project as IDLE mediators, cultural organizations, and artists.

To sign up, please send an email with the subject line “IDLE Mediator Meeting” to piksel23(at)piksel(dot)no

Ps: The event is BYOL- Bring Your Own Laptop (and headphones) !

Inclusive Digital Laboratory for Experimental Art (IDLE) is an innovative, artistic, and participatory project based on a digitally upgraded meeting place, Studio 207 in Bergen. The goal is to make the physical art space Studio 207 available online via Piksel Cyber Salon with the aim that everyone can interact and create new artistic experiences without having to be physically present.

The project started with the premise that social gatherings on digital platforms give a greater opportunity to participate when unable to meet up physically and explores how to open access to electronic and contemporary art in new ways.

To test the preliminary manufactured technology and eventually disseminate the completed tool, we at Piksel wish to put together a team consisting of representatives from cultural/artistic/humanitarian/health organizations or institutions that work with people with reduced mobility physically, socially, and/or infrastructural. This includes actors who wish to include the aforementioned groups in their activities.

As an IDLE mediator, one will:
• Be among the first with user knowledge related to an innovative tool.
• Gain expanded knowledge about creative inclusion opportunities within art and culture.
• Interact with the artists behind IDLE.
• Be able to influence the finished result so that it is adapted to the needs you see as suitable to be met.
• Get arranged use of the Piksel Cyber Salon and specially adapted workshops organized by Piksel.