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Annet Dekker
curator & researcher
Professional Background
Annet Dekker is a distinguished academic and a prominent figure in the field of Media Studies, specializing in Archival Science. She currently holds the position of Assistant Professor of Media Studies: Archival Science at the esteemed University of Amsterdam. In addition to her role at the University of Amsterdam, she serves as a Visiting Professor and co-director of the Centre for the Study of the Networked Image at London South Bank University. Over the years, Annet has built a versatile career as an independent researcher and curator, firmly establishing herself as a leading expert in the intersection of media art, digital preservation, and the evolving landscape of cultural documentation. Her extensive involvement in national and international conferences, workshops, and juries showcases her commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration in the field of Media Studies.
Annet has previously contributed significantly to various organizations, including her work as a Researcher in Digital Preservation at the prestigious Tate, London, from 2014 to 2016. Here, she honed her skills in preserving digital art and furthered her interest in the unique challenges posed by new media to traditional preservation methods. Additionally, she served as a Fellow at The New Institute in Rotterdam, where she engaged in innovative research related to the digital arts. Additionally, Annet has held positions as a Core Tutor at the Piet Zwart Institute, where she taught a Master’s program in Media Design and Communications between 2011 and 2016. Annet's background encompasses a wealth of experience in curatorial practices as well, having collaborated with various museums and art institutions, which has equipped her with a robust understanding of the curatorial landscape. ,
Education and Achievements
Annet Dekker's academic journey led her to earn her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Cultural Studies/Critical Theory and Analysis from the Centre for Cultural Studies at Goldsmiths, University of London. Her Ph.D. thesis, which she worked on between 2008 and 2014 under the guidance of esteemed scholar Matthew Fuller, culminated in the publication of her influential book titled "Collecting and Conserving Net Art: Moving Beyond Conventional Methods" by Routledge. This work critically explores contemporary issues surrounding the curation and preservation of net art, providing insights that resonate widely within the academic and artistic communities. Through her research, Annet has shed light on progressive techniques and methodologies developing in the domain of digital archiving and art conservation.
Over the years, Annet has been an active participant in numerous conferences and symposia, where she has presented her research findings. Her commitment to academia is mirrored in her role as a contributor to peer-reviewed journals and edited volumes, allowing her to dynamically engage with ongoing dialogues surrounding the evolution of media art and culture. Annet is also passionate about mentoring aspiring artists and curators, volunteering her time to serve on advisory boards and juries for various art institutions. Her dedication to fostering new talent in the arts community is noteworthy, as she believes that emerging voices are crucial for the future of cultural practices.
Notable Relationships and Contributions
Annet's professional affiliations include previous roles as a Committee Member at Stroom Den Haag and board member at MU. She has also served on the Supervisory Board of Victorine van Schaick and V2_, contributing her expertise to shape and direct significant artistic initiatives. Furthermore, her experience as a researcher in residence at the Centre for Curatorial Studies at Bard College showcases her commitment to pushing the boundaries of curatorial practice. Annet’s extensive involvement demonstrates her multifaceted engagement with both the academic and artistic communities, reflecting her belief in the importance of cross-disciplinary dialogue.
In addition to her academic accomplishments, Annet has co-curated several pioneering exhibitions, such as "How Much of This is Fiction / As If: The Media Artist as Trickster," among others. Her ability to blend art and academia is exemplified through her curated works, addressing pressing topics within contemporary media culture. Notably, she has spoken at various prestigious events, allowing her voice to resonate across multiple platforms and audiences. From presenting at the Guggenheim Museum to participating in the Interactive Symposium on Digital Art and Culture, her insights have been well received by peers and audiences alike.
Achievements
Annet’s contributions to the media art community and her rich academic background encapsulate her dedication to exploring the complexities of digital preservation. With a recognized voice in the discussion of digital arts, her work continues to influence emerging policies and practices related to the care and conservation of digital artworks. Her thought leadership and innovative approaches are proving to be pivotal amidst rapid advancements in technology, as the boundaries between the digital and physical realms blur.
Her impressive collection of presentations highlights her impact on the field, as she has contributed to the discussions at many renowned institutions including the Stedelijk Museum, Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, and the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works. Annet Dekker's commitment to cultural preservation, digital documentation, and the evolution of media art positions her as an invaluable asset to contemporary discourse surrounding these vital areas of study.