In 1996, Microcinema began presenting short films and videos from around the
world in the backroom of a cyber café. Since that time, they have screened
over 1500 short works from all corners of the globe - in microcinemas and
sundry theaters in over 43 countries.
1996 saw the very beginnings of the popular video revolution. The
introduction of the Hi-8 format, which was small and compact, made good
quality video accessible to the general consumer. Over the years, computers
and software further revolutionized the art form by allowing for relatively
inexpensive editing, as well as sound, motion, and graphic design. The
explosion of content that resulted stimulated the re-birth of local cinema
clubs - these aptly-names "microcinemas" continue to grow in numbers and
importance in the film and arts communities.
The last ten years has witnessed compelling shifts in short film production
– conceptually and aesthetically. Independent Exposure X was created to
present these trends to a contemporary audience. Houstonian Patrick
Kwiatkowski and San Francisco-based Joel S. Bachar, founders of the group,
have always been ‘media agnostic’ – works based on celluloid, a cellphone,
hand drawn or computer generated are all considered relevant to the
independent moving image arts of 1996 through 2005 and beyond. The moving
image works in tonight’s program present not only 10 years of Independent
Exposure but provide a glimpse of the breadth and depth of the talent that
exists in the independent media community. They also offer a compelling and
unique insight into a vast and diverse creative spirit existing today.
OH1Ø's "The State" - is a new kind of space - emerging from the Historic State Theater in Springfield, Ohio.
"The State" is a wireless lab, interactive performance hall, digital production studio, micro-cinema, gourmet banquet center, creative class clubhouse and video game arcade 'ALL in ONE' historic downtown theater.
What's the common thread? VIDEO + COMMUNITY
"The State" is THE place to CREATE video and new media culture — not merely consume it.
"The State" introduces artists, audiences and clients to an experiential adventure with the innovation>>technology arena - tilling the soil for IT based businesses while revitalizing a cultural treasure.
"The State" is a low-cost, high-yield generative center of education, creativity and public spectacle designed to increase community, entrepreneurialism and digital entertainment in Center City.
"The State: Oh1Ø New Media Center" is a private partnership, working closely in collaboration with local and federal officials, industry and academic organizations, with the mission of bringing together emerging communities with video-based technology in the shape of a lasting social institution.
