@work network is a pan-European network of research, discussion and creative exchange between artists, workers, scientists, trade unions and policy makers. It was formed in 2004 by independent performing art professionals to create alternative ways of exchanging ideas, methods and disciplines in a transnational forum. First years the network focused on the issues of work in a transforming European society.
PROJECTS
THE STORY OF WORK (June 2006 - May 2007) was a Culture 2000 funded project which aimed to research the changing nature and experiences of work in a contemporary society. The project resulted in events - performances, meetings, discussions and a festival - reaching over 7 countries. After the Story of Work, the members of the network felt, there still was a need for the network to be active and work on issues relevant for our society. A new common theme to explore was decided upon, now the network focuses on civilisation.
THE CIVILISATION PROJECT (2009-2011) was funded by the Nordic Culture Point. The project's content can be divided into three spheres 1) work by the individual companies in their respective countries 2) Workspace workshops 3) Civilisation festival which summed up the results by portraying the work and performances resulting from the project.
The main research tool used in the Civilisation Project was workspace, a new method of artistic process devised by the @work network. During the three year project period five workspaces were arranged. The Civilisation project resulted in performances, discussions and seminars in different European countries.
