Radical Activism in Virtual Spaces

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) have introduced a transformative shift in how activism in art and design is conceived, experienced, and disseminated. They offers tools to foster empathy, rethink civic engagement, and confront structural inequalities crucial to this movement. As political repression escalates, the urgency to explore innovative frameworks for immersive activism has become paramount.

While open to diverse paths of inquiry, this panel proposes two primary lines of inquiry. First, critical investigations of current activism practices in AR/VR-based activism. Second, imagining future potentials for AR/VR activism amidst the constraints of repressive sociopolitical environments. Drawing from critiques, such as Ann Thorpe’s call for redefining the realm of design activism, and insights from critical perspectives, such as “Digital Activism and Design” (Begüm Aylin Önder, 2024), the panel aims to interrogate both ethical frameworks and conceptual paradigms.

What ethical considerations must inform activist AR/VR productions to avoid reinforcing bias? How are artist using immersive media to resist marginalization and challenge hegemonic narratives? How do current socio-political conditions shape the reception and distribution of activist AR/VR? Can immersive AR/VR experiences foster long-term engagement with social issues, beyond fleeting emotional responses? How can producers and users navigate censorship and surveillance within virtual spaces? In what ways can AR/VR reimagine and expand on pivotal moments and historical uprisings to inform and inspire contemporary forms of activism?

This panel seeks a broad range of perspectives from diverse disciplines – including, but not limited to graphic design, humanities, interaction design, history.