Whether on screen or face to face, assembling is how we forge human connection—an active, challenging and inspiring process of gathering distinct parts into a unified whole. Virtual or physical, when we assemble, we come together to transcend barriers, to fuse our separate voices into a collective chorus; our singular works into a shared meaning; our solitary selves into something resembling wholeness. Beyond the sum of its parts, assembling holds the power to shape our shared future.
Our fourth edition of OneBeat Virtual invites 25 artists from around the world to explore the relationship between assembling and assembly. How do we meaningfully unite people in both virtual and physical spaces? What are the challenges and opportunities inherent in each? How can we embrace the ancient, in-person assembly while utilizing new ways of connecting through virtual means?
We aim to promote dialogue and collaboration that bridges the virtual-physical divide through experimental soundscapes, workshops, lectures and open studios. By examining assembly in all its forms, we hope to highlight its enduring ability to empower expression, foster understanding and promote inclusiveness. Assembly is both action and outcome, process and result, a pleasure and a challenge—but ultimately, a crucial part of human connection and collective world-making. Whether virtual or physical, when we come together, we assemble.