Biography:
Julianne Pierce is an Australian new media artist, curator, art critic, writer, and arts administrator. She is best known for her contributions to cyberfeminism and her involvement in various influential organizations within the arts community. Pierce’s work has left a lasting impact on the world of contemporary art and has helped shape the dialogue surrounding gender, technology, and identity.
Pierce first gained recognition as a member of the groundbreaking group VNS Matrix. Alongside other talented artists, Pierce was at the forefront of the cyberfeminist movement, which aimed to explore the intersection of technology, feminism, and art. VNS Matrix is often credited with inventing the term cyberfeminism, and their work challenged traditional notions of gender and power in the digital landscape.
Building upon her early successes, Pierce went on to co-found the Old Boys Network, another important cyberfeminist organization. This collective sought to create a supportive network for women working in new media arts and further advanced the ideologies of cyberfeminism. Pierce’s involvement in these groups showcased her dedication to promoting inclusivity and equality within the art world.
Pierce’s impact extended beyond her role as an artist. She has held various leadership positions, including serving as the executive director of the Australian Dance Theatre. Her work at the helm of this prestigious organization allowed her to champion innovative and boundary-pushing performances. Pierce’s leadership was instrumental in fostering creativity and inspiring new generations of dancers.
Additionally, Pierce has served as the Chair of the Emerging and Experimental Arts Strategy Panel for the Australia Council. In this role, she has played a crucial role in supporting emerging artists and ensuring their voices are heard within the larger arts community. Pierce’s dedication to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for experimentation has made her an influential figure in the Australian arts scene.
During her career, Pierce also held the position of executive director of the Australian Network for Art and Technology (ANAT) and was the Executive Producer of Blast Theory. Her work in these organizations further exemplified her commitment to pushing the boundaries of art and technology. Pierce’s innovative curatorial projects, such as Future Languages and Biomachines, challenged traditional notions of art and engaged audiences in thought-provoking experiences.
Pierce’s contributions to cyberfeminism and new media art have been widely studied and celebrated. She is a regular commentator on the early work of VNS Matrix and cyberfeminism, offering valuable insights into the movement’s history and legacy. Pierce’s exploration of gender and identity politics within the digital realm has paved the way for future artists to navigate the complexities of the online world.