Spearheaded by XR professionals at the intersection of film, performing arts, civic design & games, the Independent XR Distribution Coalition brings together artists and culture workers in a participatory research process to radically co-create, support and connect independent and inclusive XR distribution ecosystems of the future that counter the big tech agenda.
Through an interdisciplinary field scan, ecosystem building, and collaborative case studies, we develop bold alternatives for how immersive works are shared and sustained. Housed at MIT Open Documentary Lab, the initiative serves as a testing ground for visionary distribution models—shaping the future of independent XR as an interconnected, equitable, and artist-centered ecosystem.
The Coalition exists for, by and with the immersive media field: to unite, advocate for, and co-create independent distribution ecosystems across platforms and borders. By forming a Coalition, we believe that together, we are stronger—better positioned to form global, interdisciplinary, and inclusive networks that support the sustainable flow of immersive work.
An international, interdisciplinary group of cultural leaders and innovators advise and participate in the coalition. Click here to learn more.
We collaborate with artists, culture workers, and institutions to imagine and develop distribution strategies from the beginning of the project’s life cycle.
We interview a wide span of experts, investigate strategies and obstacles, and identify opportunities for cross-disciplinary exchange.
We host regular Think Tank sessions with advisors: a network of industry leaders collaborating to shape equitable futures of immersive distribution. We share findings through a transparent research process, newsletters, publications, workshops and public talks.
As longstanding centers for knowledge exchange, civic engagement, and public access to knowledge, libraries offer a unique infrastructure for fostering immersive storytelling outside of corporate pipelines. We are collaborating with Cambridge Public Library, LA Public Library as well as Stanford Public library to explore the potential role of libraries in commissioning, distributing, and expanding access to immersive experiences.
This initiative is funded by Agog: The Immersive Media Institute.
There are hugely diverse and differing needs and goals for XR distribution depending on whether one is an artist, a venue or curator, or a funder, and depending on what format of XR is being discussed. Multiple strategies are required to address the gaps. Here, we are framing our approach around pipelines; that is, what are the possible trajectories that different projects might take on their journey to finding audiences.
The Independent XR Distribution Coalition Database is a living, evolving resource designed to support the growing field of independent immersive distribution.
The Database is designed to be a tangible tool that grows alongside the field, amplifying the decentralized, relational, and iterative nature of the immersive ecosystem, rather than serving as an exhaustive repository.
