Shannon O'Neill

I’m going to Melbourne for Vital Signs, where on Thursday arvo I’ll be on a panel about sound art/experimental music.

More info on the panel from its chair, Julian Knowles:

ON-AIR (2 hours) Sept 8, 2.00-4.00pm

PANEL (Philip Samartzis, Gail Priest, Shannon O’Neil, Nat Bates, Garth Paine, Matthew Hill) – with an offshore contribution from Daryl Buckley.

TOPIC: The past 5 years has seen a surge in activity in the Australian experimental sound and new/electronic music scenes, primarily through artist run festivals and events. Paradoxically, at the same time, there appears to have been some difficulty establishing adequate support across a range of areas for new and emerging practice. Presenters and artists are finding it more difficult than ever to create sustainable and stable careers and to develop the Australian scene, despite clear interest in the work both locally and internationally. This panel seeks to scan major trends in the field and identify critical issues.

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As part of the session, there is around 20-35 minutes where the panel and audience can interact on issues and themes which emerge. This is a good opportunity for people to get involved in the discussion and make a positive contribution. The conference has been funded by the Australia Council, partly to inform it on the impact and consequences of the closure of the new media arts board. Please come if you can make it. I am encouraging the organisers to document the session online so further discussion and comment might be generated.

I’ll be returning to Sydney on Saturday evening. If you’d like to meet up while I’m in Melbourne, let me know.