Agora Now’s Thinking Spaces are where we explore the power of artists and activism for transformation. These two hour online gatherings include an opening presentation by different people in and connected to the Agora network, as well as smaller group break out discussions to explore and reflect the topic together.
Join our global network as we delve into vital questions and how slow, artist centred, transformational work can build the futures we need. Each gathering is accompanied by an in depth podcast, in partnership with Resonance FM. All gatherings are free.
THANKONOMY | Wednesday 30 April, 17-19h CET
Want a new world? Let’s start making it. Imagine thinking, collaborating and acting from a mindset of abundance, curiosity, generosity. What if we already have enough? How can we create alternative economies and deeper connections between us as artists and in our communities? Join us, and creative coder, developer and teacher Marcel van der Drift who, for the past ten years he has been occupied with developing ‘Thankonomy’. Thankonomy reimagines social platforms and is all about exploring ways to use modern technology to support us, social animals, with our innate urge to connect, share and make a meaningful contribution. So much thought has gone into optimising the financial industry. What if we use those same tools to encourage old-fashioned solidarity, reciprocity? What possibilities await?
PERSPECTIVES FROM THE FRONTLINES | 29 May 17-19h CET
The Agora Now network connects artists and activities across the globe. Hear from our artists situated in Buenos Aires and Belgrade as they discuss their experiences in challenging environments. Led by our Buenos Aires hub colleagues at Planta Inclán, Elisa Carricajo and Juan Onofri Barbato, we will hear from them and Bojan Djordev (Belgrade) and Siniša Ilić (Belgrade) about experiences in challenging contexts.
The session will be in Spanish and English with translation available.
WITH WHOM DO WE DIALOGUE AND WHY? | 26 June 13-15h CET (hour to be confirmed)
Japanese/Dutch artist Tomoko Mukayaima is creating ‘WE ARE THE HOUSE | Clear Messages from a Future’ for the Dutch Pavilion at the World Expo in Osaka. This project, drawing on the universal equity thematic of the Dutch programme, features a Salon and a Performance Installation. A 10-day Salon in Kyoto (starting May 30, 2025) will transform a local house into a semi-public space, inviting women of different ages and diverse backgrounds to imagine the future through art, play, and collaboration. A second Salon will take place in Amsterdam’s Noord neighbourhood on June 21 as part of the Holland Festival. Tomoko has assembled an interdisciplinary team, including Dutch doctor and activist Rebecca Gomperts. Together, they will share insights fresh from the Kyoto and Amsterdam Salons, discussing how their art and activism engage with social structures, the invisible in society and formation of communities. Laura Kalauz will interview Tomoko and Rebecca, followed by an open discussion on ‘With whom do we dialogue and why?'”
