Vienne c (Vienn Chan) – The Economy, Community Currency, and Rethinking Value

Vienne c explored the economy through the lens of money as a right to access resources, arguing that economics is not just a technical field but a design of societal possibilities. They reviewed community currency models, such as Milan’s Commoncoin and Japan’s Fureai Kippu, discussing both their potential and limitations—especially when tied to fiat systems. Vienne also challenged the barter-origin myth of money, proposing it originates from communal needs like taxation. They emphasized that currency systems can redefine value, particularly for non-monetized contributions, like caregiving or participation, and warned against idealizing “community” without recognizing its inherent exclusions and systemic constraints.

Emiko Ogawa – Art as Catalyst: STARTS Prize, Design vs. Art Thinking

Emiko Ogawa introduced Ars Electronica and its role at the intersection of art, technology, and society, highlighting its flagship awards: the Prix Ars Electronica and the STARTS Prize. She showcased impactful projects like Pollinator Pathmaker and Project Alias, which address global challenges from climate change to AI ethics. Emiko distinguished between design thinking (solution-driven) and art thinking (question-driven), asserting that artists create space for radical questioning and new visions. She emphasized the role of artists as connectors and catalysts who bridge disciplines, foster citizen participation, and provoke reflection on humanity’s future in a digitally complex world.

Professor Biao Xiang – Imminent Alternatives and the Power of the Nearby

Professor Biao Xiang discussed the widespread desire for alternatives amid dissatisfaction with the current global order, critiquing the lack of actionable paths. He proposed “imminent alternatives”—solutions found in one’s immediate surroundings—as a counter to distant utopias or global crises. He introduced the concept of the “first 500 meters,” emphasizing hyperlocal engagement and community observation. Drawing from migration studies and examples like flexible public seating or migrant ingenuity, he argued that complex, nearby communities possess internal capacity for repair and change, and urged participants to observe, learn from, and embed themselves in local practices rather than imposing external frameworks.