“Copyright Developments Turn Us All Into Thieves”. Josephine Bosma

BASICS
Transmediale 05
International Media Art Festival, Berlin
From February 4th to 8th 2005

The atmosphere of Transmediale 2005 was dominated by the presence of Steve Kurtz, member of Critical Art Ensemble (CAE). CAE’s work has always been critical of the politics that touch on the basics of our existence: our food, our sex, our control over communication and knowledge. He was the first artist that has been actively prosecuted under the anti-terrorist laws in the United States. Kurtz and CAE collaborator, Claire Pentecost, presented his case at a special session before the conference, leaving the audience stunned with disbelief.