Breaking Walled Gardens
An iOS jailbreaking workshop where we discuss permacomputing and the advantages of breaking out of a walled ecosystem.
Try hacking existing devices to extend their longevity and limit our own production of e-waste. Non iOS devices also possible to explore.
A workshop to jailbreak old Apple devices for reusability in modern livelihoods. Each participant will be requested to bring an old i-device to go through the process of “jailbreaking”. If participants do not have old Apple devices, they are welcome to bring other specific hardwares to experiment with modifications and tooling to get them up and running again (think old phones, media players, game consoles). We will be looking for ways to play around with the existing hardware and re-incorporating them back into serviceable devices. Potential avenues could include: extra screens for an art installation, modded gaming consoles to play lost media, or simply using your old iPod as a music player again.
This workshop will also have a discussion on the philosophy of permacomputing, or ways we can hack existing devices to extend their longevity and limit our own production of e-waste. Devices are planned to become obsolete, and it is our job as soft(ware) custodians to maintain, cultivate, and care for these old and forgotten tools.
Some sample materials may be provided to practice using these modding tools, but participants are encouraged to bring their own devices.
Learning Outcomes
Permacomputing philosophies and practical applications of them
Repurpose old (but powerful) devices into our own artistic practices
How we can leverage open source tools to build resilience against e-waste
Program/Resources
Sam's Zine
Scholarships
Index scholarships are designed to benefit members of our community who do not have expendable cash to pay for the course, and those for whom the class price is not accessible. These need-based scholarships will go to the candidates who best demonstrate why they should be chosen for the free spot to our class based on the following criteria:
Belong to groups that are traditionally underrepresented in the graphic design and creative industries
Do not have jobs that would pay for these courses as professional development
Cannot independently afford the class at list price
Share our value of intentional community
The number of selected applicants chosen is subject to the discretion of Index and the instructor, but every course will select at least one. Apply for a scholarship here. Applications close October 14th.
Instructor
Sam Heckle is a bi-coastal educator and artist specializing in ethical software, generative systems, and decentralized network design. They are currently exploring permacomputing through repurposing electronic waste, queer representations in media, and the rituals that bring us back into the algorithmic fold. Sam currently teaches creative computation and critical media theory at The New School, New York University, Hunter College, and the School of Visual Arts. They are also an active organizer of Destruction Junket, a Brooklyn-based art collective that creates community from chaos.
Refunds
We get that things come up, but we rely on headcounts to make our programs viable. If you request a refund...
More than 4 weeks before the program begins → 100% refund
More than 2 weeks before the program begins → 50% refund
Fewer than 2 weeks before the program begins → No refund
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Media Release Clause
By attending this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded, and grant Index Space permission to use this content for promotional or informational purposes.