Unleashing Creativity: Exploring New Realities with Circle and Onassis ONX

A Pioneering Partnership for Immersive Storytelling

Circle, a prominent organization supporting women and gender-expansive filmmakers, is broadening its horizons by launching an innovative program focused on extended reality (XR) and immersive media. This initiative, titled 'Circle Expanded Orbit,' is a result of a strategic collaboration with Onassis ONX, the Onassis Foundation's platform known for its dedication to art and cutting-edge technologies. This partnership signifies a significant step towards integrating diverse voices into the future of digital storytelling.

Emmy-Winning Visionary to Lead the Program

Guiding the 'Circle Expanded Orbit' program will be Katerina Cizek, an acclaimed documentarian recognized with both Emmy and Peabody Awards. Her appointment as Head of Studies underscores the program's commitment to excellence and innovation. Cizek's extensive experience and artistic vision are expected to profoundly influence the curriculum and creative framework of this new venture, ensuring a rich and impactful learning experience for participants.

Athens to Host a Convergence of Creative Minds

The inaugural 'Circle Expanded Orbit' program is slated to run from November 21 to 26 in the historic city of Athens. This unique event will serve as a dynamic hub, bringing together an eclectic mix of creators. Filmmakers, artists, and multidisciplinary storytellers are invited to explore the vast possibilities presented by XR, mixed reality, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), and game-based narratives. The application window for interested individuals or pairs closes on July 23, with shortlisted candidates proceeding to interviews in late August.

Synergistic Collaboration for Digital Artistic Expression

The collaboration between Circle and Onassis ONX is founded on a shared vision to push the boundaries of artistic expression through technology. Onassis ONX, with its dual presence in Athens and New York, provides a robust platform for digital and immersive creativity. The alliance leverages Circle's successful model of peer-driven talent development, ensuring that participants benefit from a supportive and collaborative environment as they delve into advanced media formats.

Fostering New Perspectives in Emergent Media

Katerina Cizek expressed her enthusiasm for leading this new program, emphasizing its role in expanding opportunities for diverse creators in emergent technologies. She highlighted the honor of collaborating with Onassis ONX and the mutual learning that will occur as women and gender-expansive artists bring their unique and vital perspectives to the XR field. This initiative aims to create an inclusive space where innovative ideas can flourish.

Empowering Diverse Storytellers in a Transforming Landscape

Since its inception in 2018, Circle has empowered over 200 filmmakers from more than 50 countries. Biljana Tutorov, the founder and program director of Circle, articulated the program's core mission: to ensure that women and gender-expansive creators are not merely participants but leaders in the ongoing transformation of storytelling through immersive and emergent media. With Cizek's guidance, 'Circle Expanded Orbit' is envisioned as a new creative frontier where technology serves artistic vision, collectively shaping the future of art.

Technology as a Catalyst for Artistic Innovation

Prodromos Tsiavos, head of digital and innovation at the Onassis Foundation and Onassis ONX, articulated the foundation's philosophy. He emphasized that technology is not an end in itself but rather a powerful tool to amplify artistic expression, critical thinking, and new forms of immersion. Tsiavos underscored that initiatives like 'Expanded Orbit' bridge local talent with global networks, enabling artists to develop, share, and achieve international recognition. He concluded by stressing the critical importance of supporting women and gender-expansive creators in cultivating a more inclusive and forward-thinking artistic landscap