What is Polyopticon.org?

Polyopticon.org is a community website for arts professionals and emerging artists.

How do I become a member of Polyopticon.org?

You just need to register and login (it is free) by providing a name and email address. Once you have done this you will be able to post comments, emails and reqest project forums.

I have a project idea, how can I begin on the site?

Request a project forum by emailing a short paragraph (no more than 250 words) outlining your project and how the forum will be used. Use the red contact button on the left to post your request.

I don't have a project idea, but want to get involved somehow. What should I do?

Create a profile and add your detailed information. Then look at other projects and post comments. Just get involved however you can/ want.

What does 'polyopticon' mean?

The literal meaning of 'polyopticon' is 'seeing from many viewpoints'. It can also mean 'many people looking at each other'. It is an invented word that refers to Foucault/ Bentham's 'panopticon', but it is a much more positive term in that it decentralises power, rather than centralising it.

Can I invite my friends?

Absolutely. The flavoour of this community is based on art, so it would be more appropriate if it were your arty friends. But everyone is into art... right?

How long has Polyopticon.org been going for?

I started it in early 2005, but it wasnt until mid-2006 that it began to take shape. It will be officially lauched sometime in 2007.

Does Polyopticon.org have any commercial interests?

No. It is made for artists, by artists. We hope that our members WILL gain commercially through their practices, but this site is not interested in making profits. Donations are accepted to pay for some expenses. Government funding may be sought to set up more services, but we are NOT a commercial enterprise

I am worried that by posting my ideas on this site that someone will steal them. What should I do?

Don't post ideas that are likely to be stolen without that theft helping you in some way. On the other hand, don't covert your ideas so that they are wasted through hesitation. The best thing to do, is use this site to comment on your progress, rather than on your ideas.