‘Channels: The Australian Video Art Festival ‘ is the only event of its kind in Australia. Its sole focus is on contemporary video art and culture and this year’s theme ‘futures of’ invites more than 90 Australian and international artists to present ideas of what the future, in relation to current world events may bring. ‘Channels’ features a full program of exhibitions, screenings, talks and public programs across Melbourne venues from 1 to 10 September.
Hannah Brontë, Umma’s Tongue-molten at 6000 ˚, 2017, still. Courtesy the artist and Channels Festival, Melbourne
“In the current political and social landscape, our imagined future state is often broadly speculated and debated within mainstream dialogue. This year’s artists responded with their interpretations of what this might be based on their current experiences, hopes and ideals, making us question whether we are destined for something utopian or perhaps something darker”, says artistic director, Alicia Renew.
Festival highlights include: ‘Future Tense’ a group exhibition of video and new technology opening at The SUBSTATION on 1 September at 6pm along with ‘Umma’s Tongue-molten at 6000˚ exploring the dystopia of modern society by Wakka Wakka and Yargel artist Hannah Brontë. BLINDSIDE presents artist Atong Atem who considers migrant narratives, postcolonial practices, and notions of identity until 9 September. ‘Relaxation Agency: RLX:tech’ is a new augmented reality commission by artist Kate Geck that will lead audiences via phone app on a self-guided tour around Newport’s retail precinct with a series of therapeutic mindfulness mantras triggered by interactive totems from 1 to 10 September. Closing the event is ‘Autofictions Festival’ at SUBSTATION on 9 September, 9pm.
