STEFAN RÖMER ReCoder

His conception of deconceptualisation explores what happens when the conceptual itself becomes an artistic convention, and proposes a deconstruction of artistic practice.

Starting with ‘ReCoder-Performance’ (2018), the cycle undergoes a recoding of life and art, re-examining the parameters of the historical avant-garde before finally arriving at ‘ReCoding Everything’ (2026).

Through collage, montage, language and sound, the films explore the changing conditions of image production, labour, memory and digital culture. Römer describes ‘ReCoder’ as contemporary science fiction and asks what has become of the critical and political possibilities of montage.

The three films

‘ReCoder of Life’ (2019)

14:19 mins

An exploration of life in a digitalised world and the possibility of rewriting its codes. Presented at the Oberhausen International Short Film Festival, 2019.

ReCoder of Art (2023)

18:32 mins

The second part of the ReCoder cycle. Audience Award, Soundwatch Music Film Festival, Berlin, 2023.

ReCoding Everything (2026)

15:33 mins

A contemporary science fiction film. Through the character of Reco, the film explores montage, language and sound, and examines the political possibilities of collage in the age of generative AI. Premiere on 28 May 2026.

Programme

• 3.00 pm | An afternoon with ‘ReCoder’.
• The three films will be screened continuously throughout the afternoon.
• 6.00 pm | Film performance with Stefan Römer, comprising a reading and a film screening, followed by a discussion.

All of Stefan Römer’s books and records will be on display.