PerAspera Festival XII Edition in Bologna Explores Humanity and Technology

The XII edition of the multidisciplinary festival PerAspera runs until September 16 in Bologna and its metropolitan area. Organized by the association alberTStanley, the festival aims to connect artists, territories, and citizens, extending beyond the historic center to suburbs and disused spaces. This year's theme, referencing Nietzsche's 'Human, All Too Human,' focuses on humanity in relation to new technologies, blending community traditions with immersive art technologies. Eleven artists will create site-specific interventions in different locations. Two national premieres are featured: 'The Third Day,' an immersive technological experience by CiRCA69 (UK) at Adiacenze, and 'Unique and Spectacular Moment,' an interactive installation by BrightBlack (UK) at the Serre dei Giardini Margherita from September 13 to 15, which transforms participants from video game characters into real-life performers. An open call selected performers Lorenzo De Simone, percussionists Francesco Cigana and Marcello Batelli, poet and electronic musician S.ee (Serena Di Biase), and videomaker Jody Ellen (Elena Mortarelli). The festival format has evolved from a single space to multiple locations, and this year introduced a 'call for places' inviting public and private entities to propose new spaces for artists.