Concepts

Introduction 

In the ever-evolving landscape of art and culture, Future Archaeologies is intended as a beacon of economical innovation and thoughtful preservation. Rather than preserving vast numbers of objects and artworks we preserve the potential of ideas. We preserve the concepts that are the root of reproductions or interpretations. And so the concepts within our archives, become a meticulously curated repository that both safeguards the potential of every idea, while ensuring that each will resonate with future generations. At the same time the concepts in the archives also serve as a vibrant hub for contemporary interaction and dialogue. Therefor the archives are more than cold storage spaces; they are a testament to the power of our combined artistic vision, they are a bridge between the past, present, and the future. They are the seedbank of human creativity.

Furthermore, the archives are not just about preservation; they represent a living history. In a world inundated with transient digital content, the tangible permanence of these archives offers a refreshing contrast. They serve as a reminder of the enduring power of art and ideas, even in an age of fleeting digital trends. Every piece, every concept stored within, tells a story—a narrative of its time, capturing the essence of its era.

 Integral to the success and richness of these archives are the concepts made by our Poets in the Talent and Catalyst Programmes. These individuals, handpicked for their unique perspectives and skills, breathe life into the archives. During their tenure with Future Archaeologies, each Talent and Catalyst is entrusted with a significant responsibility: to contribute a concept that encapsulates their artistic vision. The concepts they are asked to produce should always strive to be comprehensive blueprints of artistic intent. They should encompass every facet of the individual artistic process, regardless of whether they come from a curatorial, chorographical, musical, dramaturgical or any other aspect of the creative field.

Detailed installation plans, performer intricacies, potential loan channels, and even budget projections are expected to be meticulously documented. Just as they are to be discussed and shared with fellow Poets for in order to establish a positive process of exploration and reflection within the Bureaus. This thoroughness ensures that each concept is not just a flight of fancy but a viable artistic proposal, ready to be realised when the time is right.

Concepts are the living mirrors of their times

 It should also be acknowledged and even appreciated that the individual productions go beyond being repositories of artistic concepts; waiting to be activated or realised. As each concept also presents a living chronicle that capture the essence and spirit of their specific creator and epoch. It’s in this way that a concept serves as a mirror, reflecting the ever-changing societal landscapes, the evolving cultural norms, and the shifting paradigms of thought.

Every piece within the archives tells a story, not just of its creator, but of the world at the time of its inception. Each concept, each reflection, is a snapshot of the challenges and triumphs of its era. Whether it's the political upheavals that shape nations, the technological advancements that redefine societies, or the societal shifts that influence perceptions, the concepts capture them all. They document the doubts that plague the minds of creators, the concerns that weigh on their hearts, and the external challenges that often stand as formidable barriers to artistic expression. Barriers that at other times hopefully seem insignificant, yet the failures of every concept to exist easily in their original time is a testament to the difficulties and uniqueness of terms presented by any specific era.

 Still, the concepts do more than just highlight challenges; they also celebrate resilience. They showcase how art and artists, time and again, have risen above their circumstances, how they've transformed adversity into inspiration, and how they've used their art to comment on, critique, and sometimes even change the world around them. The reflections within the archives therefore also constitute a testament to the indomitable spirit of creators, their ability to find hope in despair, and the Poets knack for finding beauty in the most unexpected places. Moreover, these reflections provide invaluable insights for future generations. They offer a window into the past, helping artists, historians, and enthusiasts understand the evolution of art and culture. They shed light on the processes and reasoning that underpins any time. By documenting the societal limitations of each era, the archives also highlight the progress we've made as a society and underscore the areas where work still needs to be done.

The archives therefore become more than just historical records or potential productions; they become lessons. They teach us about the power of perseverance, the importance of staying true to one's vision, and the incredible impact art can have in shaping societies and mindsets. It’s through these reflections, that Future Archaeologies is not just preserving history; it's inspiring the future, ensuring that the lessons of the past are not forgotten but are used to build a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.

The Possibilities Archive

Each concept, having been born through a rigorous production framework, finds its final resting place within the Possibilities Archive. Categorised under a distinctive Poet production code, the archive stands as a testament to equitable and unbiased access, ensuring every idea, regardless of its origin, is given its rightful space. However, the archive is not just a static collection; it's a dynamic space, pulsating with potential. Each concept, tangible and detailed, beckons institutions, galleries, and other entities to explore its depths and consider bringing it to life. The vision behind each concept is preserved with such fidelity that the original creator, if available and willing, is always given the first right to transform their conceptualised idea into reality. This ensures that the essence of the concept remains undiluted, fostering genuine collaboration and maintaining the integrity of the original vision.

This approach to archiving and realisation challenges and redefines the traditional dynamics between artists, curators, and institutions. Gone are the days of siloed creativity and limited collaboration. The Possibilities Archive paves the way for a more integrated, symbiotic relationship. Poets are empowered to harness their freest form of production, passion, and ability in a direct, meaningful manner, translating their visions into detailed, tangible concepts ready for production. By means of the Poets full and expansive creativity, institutions are continuously presented with a treasure trove of fresh, innovative ideas, waiting to be discovered and realised.

We believe this represents a win-win scenario where institutions and galleries benefit from a continuous influx of ground-breaking ideas, while artists are afforded the unparalleled opportunity to see their visions materialise, all the while knowing that their original concept, in its purest form, is safely archived for posterity. In this landscape of collaboration, the Possibilities Archive seeks to shine a light on a new, democratic, and inclusive path forward, and invites all to partake in this revolutionary journey from conception to realisation. The production of a concept within Future Archaeologies is a meticulous one, ensuring that each idea is not only innovative but also tangible and ready for archival.

Production of a concept

1. Concept Exploration: Every journey begins with an idea. The Poet starts with a broad exploration, brainstorming sessions, and initial sketches expanding on the idea they applied with to gain access to our programme. This phase is about letting the imagination run wild, without constraints, capturing the essence of what the Poet envisions.

2. Research & Contextualisation: Once the initial idea starts finding it’s footing, it's essential to ground it in research. This could involve understanding historical contexts, current societal trends, technological advancements, or any other relevant domain. The aim is to ensure the concept is both relevant and informed.

3. Material Selection: Given that each concept will find its final form in a tangible material, it's crucial to decide on the medium early on. Whether it's a detailed sculpture, a series of paintings, intricate digital art, or any other form, the material should resonate with the concept's essence. 

4. Prototyping & Iteration: Before finalising the concept, a prototype or a draft version is created. This allows the Poet to visualise the idea, make necessary adjustments, and refine it. Iterations are encouraged, ensuring the concept is as polished as possible.

5. Documentation & Annotation: Every concept is accompanied by detailed documentation. This includes the Poet's reflections, inspirations, challenges faced, and the thought process behind certain decisions. Annotations can also provide insights into the concept's deeper meanings or nuances.

6. Final Material Production: With the concept refined and documented, it's time for the final production in its material form. This phase ensures that the concept is ready for archival, preserving its physical essence for future generations.

7. Archival & Categorisation Once produced, the concept is meticulously archived within the Possibilities Archive. Using the unique Talent production code, it's categorised to ensure equitable and unbiased access.

8. Nomination for Transmissions As a nod to the legacy of inspiration, each Poet nominates two individuals who have significantly influenced their work. These candidates, alive during the Poet's production phase, ensure the continuous enrichment of the archive with diverse perspectives. See Transmissions

This structured framework ensures that every concept within Future Archaeologies is not just a fleeting idea but a tangible piece of art, ready for archival and potential future realisation. It celebrates the journey of creation, from the initial spark of inspiration to the final material form, ensuring each step is thoughtful and purposeful. Future Archaeologies, while championing artistic collaboration, also sees production of concepts as a path to ensure its own sustainability. By retaining a 10% profit share from all projects originating from its archives, the organisation will bolster its own economy. This strategy is one of several revenue streams envisioned to ensure that Future Archaeologies can continue its mission of preservation, innovation, and collaboration for years to come.

In bridging the past with the present and future, Future Archaeologies becomes more than an organisation; it's a movement and an organism straddling culture and time in new ways. It challenges the traditional paradigms of art creation and curation, offering a platform where ideas are not just conceived but preserved for posterity. Always with a view that the artists of today should leave a living legacy and a vibrant voice for the generations of tomorrow.