NCM is situated on the lands of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people. We pay respects to them, especially their Elders and storytellers, as well as all First Peoples, nationwide. NCM acknowledges that communication technologies have a long history here, far longer than European occupation.

Alternative Networks

Gallery 2 • 21 Oct 2026 - 21 Feb 2027

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Can we do machine intelligence differently? How can people create and connect through alternative technology networks? Does using AI have to mean burning the planet?


Between October 2026 and February 2027, NCM Studio, NCM’s in-house creative technology incubator, is taking over Gallery 2 to explore human-centric computing, new ways to run AI, wearable technology and people-powered networks.

Part research project, part open-ended prototype, Alternative Networks grows and responds to technological change. The aim: to take back control of the technology we use and stay connected without proprietary and extractive infrastructure.

About

NCM Studio

NCM’s creative technology incubator, NCM Studio, formally launches this year.

At a time when museums continue to outsource creativity, NCM is investing in thought leadership and building a creative technical team capable of developing works with artists, undertaking commissions, leading new research and developing open-source tools for the creative industries.

Modelled on international creative tech labs that were built on a clear identity and research culture before they scaled commercially, NCM Studio fills a gap in creative technology studios in Australia, championing research across the sector.

NCM Studio working on the Furby Chorus, 2025. Photo: Casey Horsfield

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