MICRO MUTEK.AE: Why Is It More Than a Music Festival?

by Alexandra Mansilla

MICRO MUTEK.AE: Why Is It More Than a Music Festival?

4 May 2024

On May 4th and 5th, Alserkal Avenue will transform into a hub of digital creativity as MICRO MUTEK.AE Edition 3 kicks off. With 42 artists performing in different zones, and each ticket including a unique, collectible NFT — quite impressive, isn't it? We decided to ask Mehdi Ansari, Artistic and General Director of MUTEK.AE, a few questions to learn more about the festival and discover the names we should be paying attention to!

— MICRO MUTEK.AE acts as a bridge between art and technology. How would you define this gap?

— MUTEK serves as a vital bridge, transcending mere presence to address the visible disparity between our local digital creativity scene and the global stage. By offering a platform for UAE's creative talents to showcase themselves, collaborate, and gain knowledge, MUTEK is paving the way for the region to take a leading role in the industry by 2030.

— This year, we are waiting for the 3rd Edition of MICRO MUTEK in Dubai. What sets it apart from the previous editions?

— This year's MICRO MUTEK.AE Edition 3 boasts an impressive array of diversity, featuring 42 artists from 14 different countries. A highlight of this year’s program is the main stage and production, both being a fresh focus. Moreover, we view the increased participation of regional artists as a sign of an increasing sense of community engagement. While regional resources have seen significant growth over the years, our aim remains steady in fostering a captivated local and regional community, a goal we are actively working to achieve.

— The "MU" in MUTEK intentionally evokes the concept of "mutation." Why is that?

— This choice of name reflects the festival's commitment to showcasing innovative, boundary-pushing electronic music and digital arts. By incorporating "mutation" into its name, MUTEK emphasises its focus on the evolution and experimentation within electronic music and digital creativity.

The term "mutation" suggests a dynamic process of change and adaptation, which resonates with MUTEK's ethos of exploring new sonic territories and embracing the constantly evolving landscape of electronic arts and culture. 

— The MUTEK festival was born in Montreal in 2000. It is relatively new in Dubai. What distinguishes the Dubai edition from MUTEK in other cities? What makes it unique?

— Hosting MUTEK in Dubai makes it distinctive due to the cultural integration and exchange that are being incorporated into the program. The UAE’s unique demographic tapestry, boasting representation from over 200 nationalities, amplifies the regional impact of MUTEK. Unlike other versions of the festival in other cities, which predominantly influence domestic culture, Dubai's multicultural landscape serves as a dynamic melting pot for cross-cultural exchange and innovation.

Instagram: @mutekae

— Can you characterise the electronic music scene in the UAE?

— The music scene is consumer-driven. We often bring in artists from abroad, paying them significantly more than their usual rates, but much of this investment that leaves the UAE does not get in return for its local scene’s economy. To address this, we need to focus more on investing in our local talent, especially young artists. By supporting our homegrown talent and developing a long-term plan for a self-sustaining music scene, we can keep more money circulating within our own community and help it thrive.

Source: dubai.mutek.org

— There will be five key series on the fest: Play, Nocturne, Digi Lab, Dome Live, and Dome Screenings. Can you please describe what to expect from each?

— The Play Series unfolds in the captivating ambiance of The Fridge Warehouse, offering an intimate evening filled with breathtaking audio-visual performances from acts such as 9T Antiope, Burnt Friedman & João Pais Filipe and Bint Mbareh.

Nocturne, hosted at the popular Concrete venue, presents an enchanting series of late-night electronic music performances and live music production from Mathew Jonson and Salar Ansari Trio featuring Grammy Award winner Luis Resto and Pathe Jassi, 404.zero and Satoshi Tomiie x Kuniyaki x Manami Sakamoto.

Digi Lab, the festival’s Professional and Educational daytime program, delves into the heart of the creative industries insight. Through two dynamic Panel Talks, attendees will gain valuable insights into modern industry issues, creative practices, and current industry trends.

The Dome Live shows are transcendent 360-degree audio-visual experiences, taking place on both days of the festival at Hemisphere 141, where festival-goers can immerse in a one-of-a-kind space to unmissable sets from Canada’s Line Katcho, Stefana Fratila x Diana Lynn VanderMeulen and Idlefon, all accompanied by a surreal 360 visual. The Twisted Tree by Sébastien Labrunie is set to show in the Dome Screenings program.

Source: dubai.mutek.org

— The festival will feature 42 international and regional digital artists and electronic musicians. Are there any names you would like to highlight?

— Definitely. We are thrilled to showcase some absolute legends and must-know artists at the festival. It is a real honour to present Satoshi Tomiie in a world premiere live set alongside Kuniyuki Takahashi, accompanied by live visuals from Manami Sakamoto. Mathew Jonson is also making his long-awaited return to Dubai with his brand-new live set after over a decade. We are also incredibly excited for the world premiere of Luis Rest's Trio, featuring Grammy-winning talent alongside the exceptional Salar Ansari. Guests should also keep an eye out for 404.Zero, a household name in the world of audiovisual and experimental experiences, making their regional debut. It is going to be an unforgettable line-up!

— During the artist and musician selection process, did you come across any emerging talents we should keep an eye on?

— Absolutely! We have stumbled upon some seriously exciting emerging talents during our selection process. First off, guests should keep their eyes peeled for Cyrill Reaidy, who will be making his live set debut at the festival. Additionally, there is a whole program that was directed by Safeya Al Balooshi of Resound where she is bringing in some incredible acts like Double Slit and Shoombufo, promising a mind-blowing experience for all. We also held an open call for regional artists to submit their work, and we were blown away by the sheer talent we discovered. Some are already primed and ready to showcase their creations, while others are excited to support and spotlight in the future. It is truly a thrilling time for emerging talent in the scene.

Source: dubai.mutek.org

— Is there a common theme that unites the works of the digital artists? Do they share any common elements?

— A common thread that weaves through the works of these digital artists is a profound commitment to creativity. Each artist harnesses the latest technological advancements to craft avant-garde expressions that push the boundaries of artistry. Whether through innovative use of digital mediums, experimental techniques, or cutting-edge technologies, these artists share a dedication to pushing the envelope and challenging conventional norms.

by Alexandra Mansilla