APPLICATION GUIDELINES
In this conference, xenopoetics names a condition in which perception is reorganised through direct encounter with a work in operation.
We are interested in works that generate xenopoetic conditions through structure, timing, relation, perceptual pressure, distributed signals, instability, interruption, or other operational means. “Poem” here does not designate a literary genre but a concentrated unit of form. It may manifest in any medium or event where contact alters perception.
The emphasis is on what the work does during the session, rather than on its explanation. Theory may appear only where absolutely necessary as framing. The presentation itself must be the artwork.
Finished pieces are invited, but works in progress are equally encouraged. Familiarity with xenopoetics is not required. All mediums are welcome as long as they can be presented live on Zoom and follow the submission guidelines.
There is no submission fee, and the final structure will be shaped once participants are selected.
SCOPE OF WORK
We seek work that suspends familiar coordinates.
Submissions structured around identity positions, sexuality, gender discourse, political advocacy, or social issue commentary will not be considered. The current cultural field provides extensive space for those forms of engagement. This conference is tuned to another register.
We are interested in what happens when discourse, the self, and the known are no longer the primary engine.
MEDIA
Work must demonstrate conceptual development. All forms are welcome, including:
Writing
Visual and moving image work
Performance
Sound
Installation
Computational and technobiotic practices
Hybrid research formats
When thinking about your presentation, please keep in mind that this conference will be primarily hosted online, likely over Zoom, with further discussion held on Discord.
Some related texts and conversations can be found below:
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Proposals may be sent by March 31, 2026. Please include:
• A proposal of up to 700 words
• Documentation where relevant
• A brief statement describing how the work operates through xenopoetic method
This conference gathers works that enact structural mutation.
Zoetica Ebb, March 3, 2026