[ISEA96] Introduction: V2 — DEAF: Dutch Electronic Art Festival

Introductory Statement

The Dutch Electronic Art Festival (DEAF) was an international and interdisciplinary festival, that was organized more or less every two years by V2_ after 1994. DEAF was one of the most important international festivals focusing on art and media technology, and can be regarded as a showcase for research and production of new media art. The festival started under the name Manifestation for the Unstable Media in 1987 in the Dutch city of ‘s-Hertogenbosch.

After V2 moved to Rotterdam, in a co-operation between V2, ISEA-NL and WDS (a web design company) the first Dutch Electronic Art Festival was organised in 1994. The name was coined by ISEA’s Wim van der Plas. DEAF featured an extensive program addressing art, technology, science and society. After 1994, V2 continued the festival on its own.

DEAF presented a wide range of program segments, including a large exhibition of artworks and installations, concerts, performances, seminars, workshops and an academic symposium. The festival was characterized by a thematic approach. Its aim was to present current developments and themes in art in our technological culture, to a diverse audience. This festival in Rotterdam was the ideal place for representatives of various networks to meet and inspire each other, stimulating the international critical debate.

v2.nl/events/deaf96