MediaTech Hub Conference

The worm has turned on Big Tech. Once media darlings of disruption and innovation, we are beginning to understand that technology is not neutral, that platforms wield power, and that culture and technology are inextricably entwined. We’ve articulated the problems, but what solutions do we have? This talk looks at where the techlash has landed us and equips us with critical questions to integrate the futures we are building. Constructive technology criticism that aims to bring stakeholders together in productive conversation rather than pitting them against each other, and poses alternative possibilities to ensure that we are building a humane, just, and inclusive future. Beyond intellectual arguments, constructive criticism is embodied, practical, and accessible, and it offers frameworks for living with technology.

A new reality for experiential narrative design

As immersive media transforms from hyped-up disruption to a mainstream technology, have we really understood what it means for storytelling on the whole? Attempts to apply traditional storytelling to immersive environments frequently fail, as these spaces require a deep rethinking of narrative's fundamental building blocks. In this keynote, narrative designer and immersive technologist Stephanie Riggs will share her game-changing theory of narrative for the immersive experience. This session will bring together storytelling theory with practice. Stephanie will share how she applies her new narrative philosophy in her work as Creative Director of Experiential at Refinery29—in 29Rooms, a celebration of art and culture through interactivity, and in collaborations with Facebook, Amazon, Reebok, Netflix and more to bring their brands to life.