Creative and stubborn: The new self-publishing and pirate radio station!

Creative and stubborn: The new self-publishing and pirate radio station!

On June 30, 2025, an exciting conversation took place with Anna Bromley, Patrick Rieve and Dr. Linnea Semmerling took place, which dealt with the stubborn forms of publishing. The event, organized as part of a creative initiative, exposed artistic strategies for creating one's own distribution channels. In particular, the concept of pirate radio stations was highlighted as historical artifacts that play a central role in the discussion about do-it-yourself aesthetics in video production. Mülheim an der Ruhr reports about the exciting event.

An important aspect of the discussion was the thematic discussion of self-published zines and gray literature. These formats give artists the freedom to spread their thoughts and ideas outside of commercial publication channels. Participants emphasized the importance of archives of past technologies to explore the present and create creative alternatives.

A look into do-it-yourself culture

Artistic projects that are dedicated to do-it-yourself culture are very popular. Verena Kuni and Dominik Landwehr documented a variety of such creative approaches in their 2009 book “HOME MADE ELECTRONIC ARTS”. The appreciation for traditional materials, which are often exchanged for electronic components, became clear. The projects are diverse and range from the construction instructions for a simple pirate radio station from the bitnik media group to the conversion of cell phones into dancing micro-robots by Daniel Imboden. Kuni.org provides interesting insights into this development.

The target group of these DIY projects includes both amateurs and those interested in technology and shows how creatively and innovatively you can use everyday materials. The results are not only artistic, but also socially critical.

Cultural work as a counterpoint

Another highlight of the discussion was the attitude of the Pirate Station e.V. The association sees cultural work as a civil society counterpoint to the market-liberal zeitgeist and is committed to integrative culture. The focus is on the social significance of art and culture - without profit interests. Particular emphasis is placed on respect for flora, fauna and the social environment. This is done, among other things, through resource-saving action and awareness-raising work on climate issues in Konstanz. Piratesender.net informed about the work of the association.

The association organizes events where, among other things, donations are raised for the H.E.L.P. Jamaica Association, which supports educational projects in Jamaica. By networking local initiatives and associations, the pirate radio station offers a platform that makes it possible to keep art and culture alive and promote civic engagement.