Open, A4, Forgotten, Free, Shorts, Dynamics, Pdf, Owners, Jpg, … Formats defi ne our relationship to the world and to other people. Rather than being a passive mechanism, formats are a guiding principle: they transform as well as convey.
Choosing a language, a paper size, a software… are never neutral operations : they define, not only our actions but also our way of thinking. They give structure to content, and they also allow easy exchange and movements accross networks. Giving shape means giving sense.
We also defi ne formats, just as they simultaneously shape and hamper us. A format is a place for negotiation, where the balance of power leads to organise its value and creation. When format is brought back to its fi rst requirement, we need to keep it in mind to avoid suff ering from it.
Deeply rooted in our environment, also inherited from previous times, formats are conveniently familiar entities. They make our lives easier by guiding and giving us direction. By supplying a common language, they enable the fl ow of ideas, objects, knowledge and goods… and forge links within our society. Playing different roles: hubs, messengers, depositaries, they establish the ground rules for ‘living together’ which the Rencontres de Lure invite you to discover from the 23rd to the 29th of August, 2015 at Lurs, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.
© Benoit Carré, 2015
© Guillaume Reynard, 2015