Sónar+D 2023: an exploration of art, science, and digital culture

This year, from the 15th to the 17th of June, Barcelona will play host to Sónar+D 2023, the international congress that brings together leading minds from art, science, and digital culture. The focal point of this year’s programme is the profound and transforming impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the arts.

Since its inception in 2013, Sónar+D has served as a multi-disciplinary event, assembling a diverse congregation of artists, technologists, creatives, musicians, designers, thinkers, scientists, entrepreneurs, makers, and hackers from over 100 countries. This cross-pollination of talent and ideas has established Sónar+D as a hub of inspiration and networking, a space to discover how creativity is shaping our present and projecting new futures.

Over the course of three days, Sónar+D offers a vibrant mix of talks, masterclasses, and groundbreaking performances. It is a playground for professionals and curious minds alike, fostering an environment where they can encounter new work, learn innovative skills, and present their initiatives.

The programme features live concerts, immersive exhibitions, interactive experiences, demos, and workshops that stimulate both the intellect and the senses.

Sónar+D 2023 will delve deep into the application of AI in the creative sector and audiovisual production, examining its industrial implications and the potential ethical and social consequences of its use. Complementing this theme, the event also includes activities that underscore how the artistic community is addressing and raising awareness about the climate emergency. Attendees will witness spectacular performances that use advanced technology to encourage fresh perspectives on our relationship with our planet.

The programme‘s focus extends to the audiovisual realm, offering sessions on cinema created using AI and a unique performance that merges generative visuals with augmented reality and live audio. Also included is an exclusive behind-the-scenes exploration of the creative processes behind the visuals of celebrated musical acts like Aphex Twin and BICEP. A special masterclass by Rhizomatiks Studio will introduce the audience to the world of generative AI and prompt-based image synthesis technology.

In collaboration with HacTe, the Barcelona hub dedicated to encouraging interaction between art, science and technology, Sónar+D 2023 will host the Art, Science and Technology Forum. This segment will highlight the symbiotic relationship between art and science, explore various artistic residency models, and dissect how artists are responding to contemporary challenges.

A notable feature of the event will be an interactive masterclass titled ‘MATTER EXPRESSIONISM’ hosted by PUZZLE X, the leading global event for frontier tech and the future. Dr. Zina Cinker, founding director of PUZZLE X, will be joined by an array of guest speakers to discuss exciting advancements in technology and deep science.

In addition, there will be a presentation titled ‘Astres’ at Stage+D by MEDIAPRO, which explores the use of natural light in visual art, as well as a talk by Claire L. Evans about the links between the natural world and information technology. Jana Winderen will also deliver a hybrid talk and concert that dives into field recordings from difficult-to-access parts of the world.

The Barcelona City Council will also contribute to Sónar+D 2023 with Plaça de Barcelona, an interactive installation promising three days of engaging activities.

Immerse yourself in this unique gathering where art, science, technology, and society converge. For more information about Sónar+D 2023, please visit Sónar+D’s official website.