Furtherfield

Furtherfield connects people to new ideas, critical thinking and imaginative possibilities for art, technology and the world around us. Through artworks, labs and debate people from all walks of life explore today’s important questions. Furtherfield diversifies the people involved in shaping emerging technologies through an arts-led approach. We find new ways for artists, technologists and academics to work together, share possibilities and imagine wider artistic, social and economic possibilities. In 1996 artists Ruth Catlow and Marc Garrett initiated an online platform for collaboration and experimentation, informed by community arts, pirate radio, activism and street art. Inspired by free and open software development they challenged notions of the individual genius artist. A grassroots network and programme emerged which continues to thrive and to engage diverse people with arts, technology and social change. Since its formation, Furtherfield has grown and built an international reputation, leading in the theory and practice of digital creativity. It has continued to invest time and energy in a decentralised and distributed network, fostering new projects with artists, seizing and challenging debates and always advocating for open and playful engagement with people encapsulated in its process of ‘doing it with others’ (DIWO). Furtherfield has been distinctive from other organisations in maintaining a presence across networked space and presenting work through its gallery. Its commitment to free and open source methodologies and internationalism has seen it working with artists at all career stages and bringing new, marginal and important messages to wider audiences.