COSA Connectors

COSA Connectors is a new series of videos exploring and showcasing the many free/Libre open source tools (FLOSS) used by artists and other creatives. Each 2-3 minute video takes a quick look at a tool, sharing what it can do and talking about who might find it useful. The particular tools are curated and toured by an energetic group of people (Connectors) working in the digital field and will span many different practices. The goal is to help people find often-underutilized tools that give anyone with a computer and the internet new ways to express themselves at no cost. While many such tools are created, most are never promoted or shared beyond small groups, so these “commercials” will help build new communities around them. With Connectors coming from multiple age groups, genders, sexual identities, and racial backgrounds, we will forefront that these tools are for everyone. The videos will reside in several online spaces including YouTube where they are tagged and link to the tool and any associated information. Ars Electronica Festival will be the premiere of COSA Connectors, with a daily rollout of the videos grouped into topical playlists and culminating in a livestream conversation with the Connectors discussing their favorite tools and taking Live Chat questions about the series as well as suggestions for future videos.