P2P, in its simplest meaning, means two people forming a direct connection to share what's important to them-- just like having a crush, or falling in love. How, then, can we make decentralized tech that is cute, nervous, and full of desire--that makes people crush on each other, helps them fall for one another? What are the p2p apps that will be shared like used copies of a Le Guin novel, or left meaningfully on the screen when you invite someone over for dinner? How can we write code to be cherished like a mixtape?
This workshop will be a combination of nostalgia and future-building. We will discuss the history of our crushes, how they developed, and when technology played a crucial part. Then we will write up visions for a lovely future, using p2p apps that were built to be objects of affection.
Hopes & DreamsI hope people see a different approach to designing new technology in this space--tech that fits in the emotional lineage of mixtapes, myspace, and poetry. Whether it helps spark your new project, or gives an introduction to some of the work already being made, the main goal is to make the decentralized world more inviting, to go beyond tech specs and demos to the small beautiful things that hit you in the chest.
ParticipationEveryone is welcome and it is kid friendly. The main focus of the workshop is love, memory, and desire---and so anyone who has experienced these three things and wants to discuss them would be a good fit. The workshop is a mix of discussion and some exploration of dat zines/dat apps. A computer would help with this, but I feel the workshop is still of interest without one.
If you bring a computer, it could also be good to bring a favorite song in mp3 format. One that fills you with feeling, whatever that means for you.
Why Participate?It is of interest to those who want to cherish the future, and who want to explore heartfelt approaches to code. It is through this under-discussed aspect of tech that we can create a more diverse and emotionally rich space. There'll be a focus on Dat and Beaker Browser, so there is the bonus of exploring and experimenting with both of these mediums.
Session Rundown2 hours overall, with a break in the middle. This can all happen in the same space.
Relevant links-
https://beakerbrowser.com -
https://coolguy.website/projects/dat-zine-library/index.html -
dat://songs.solarpunk.cool -
https://invidio.us/watch?v=X_BQ9m0kOeoContactZach Mandeville
