First international games, media art festival in Joburg

Since its inception in 2008, A MAZE has been successfully celebrating the convergence of game and art across Europe, from its HQ in Berlin.

The founder of A MAZE and festival director, Thorsten S Wiedemann says, "Johannesburg has this electrified inspiring energy in the air I experienced 15 years ago when I first came to Berlin. There are somehow touch-points between the two metropolises, which I want to work out together with local and international artists and create an imaginary bridge to connect both spots. I wish that we bring together a wide range of technology enthusiasts, games and art interested people to participate in the festival program, discuss local issues and foster future collaborations."

The goal

The goal of the festival is to create an evolving platform for African and European media artists and game developers. It creates and opens up a playground for everyone who wants to experience the human-human-machine interaction. It provides a six-day programme with lectures, panels, screenings, arcade, interactive installations, street games, workshops, concerts, performances and parties.

With over 38 international and local artists, speakers and musicians showcasing their craft, the festival aims at bringing games, music, movies and art to the public in a dynamic, interactive and fun-filled event. It is the first time in South African art history that so many artists and creatives come together to display their work through the various mediums.

For more, go to www.amaze-interact.co.za, the Facebook page or follow @A_MAZE_FESTIV on Twitter.