(Algo|Afro) Futures - 2021-2025

After four editions of the programme, (Algo|Afro) Futures has come to an end.

We started the programme in 2021 as a way to address the lack of diversity that myself and co-founder Alex McLean had noticed within the UK live coding scene.

Since then, the live coding scene has changed a lot. New tools have been built, more people are finding out about live coding through their own means, and bringing their own take on what can be done with live coding.

I’m proud of the impact that this programme has had - we’ve been able to give 25 early-career Black artists the time, space, and support for them to learn live coding. It certainly hasn’t solved the problem of diversity and racism within the live coding scene, nor was that ever the intention, but I also feel it’s time to give space for this new generations of live coders to develop a programme that reflects who they are and how they work.

Vivid Projects, the project partner and host organisation, is committed to supporting artists and creatives from under represented communities through a dedicated programme. They would love to hear from anyone who wanted to take the lead on starting a similar project. Get in touch!

Thanks to co-founder Alex McLean for supporting the programme from the very beginning. Thanks to guest mentors Gary Stewart and Tyger Blue. Thanks to Designer Philly for our awesome logo. Thanks to the various organisations that have provided additional support: Then Try This, Birmingham Open Media, University of Birmingham, and Brum Radio. Thanks also to Arts Council England for their support.

Thanks to all of the participants on the programme, it was a joy watching your skills develop and I hope you continue to make great things.

Thanks once again to Yasmeen Baig-Clifford and Vivid Projects for everything ❤️ And finally, thank you, the audience, for attending the showcase events, watching the live streams, listening to the radio show, and being enthusiastic about this programme and live coding. There’s still so much work to do to recognise the Black and Queer history of digital art, dance and electronic music, and having the support of people helps validate these efforts.

Thanks and goodbye!

(Algo|Afro) Futures
2021 - 2025