New Media Contemporary hosts weekly coding and vinyl sessions in Exposition Park

New Media Contemporary, an artist-run nonprofit gallery located in Dallas Exposition Park, holds a weekly gathering for new media creators every Thursday. From 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., participants bring laptops to collaborate on projects while vinyl records play in the background. The event, known as Open Code + Vinyl Listening, combines digital work with analog sound.

Founder James Talambas established the series to foster a specific atmosphere for creative work. He described the DJ sets as an "anti-DJ set," noting that the music is intended to feel personal rather than energetic. Talambas explained that the goal is to expand listeners' tastes by sharing the kind of music people enjoy when working alone on their computers. He emphasized that the volume and tone are calibrated to allow connection without overwhelming the room.

The space features large JBL 4638 cinema speakers topped with 2446 horns positioned near the DJ setup. Talambas, who has a background in music, designed the audio environment to support the concept of "deep listening." This philosophy, developed by composer Pauline Oliveros, distinguishes conscious listening from involuntary hearing. Talambas studied with Oliveros briefly during a masterclass, an experience he said was formative for his approach to sound and space.

Talambas has hosted the series for nearly one year. He observed that participants of various ages and professional backgrounds have embraced the format. Some attendees are professional coders, while others are new to the field. Talambas noted that the casual environment reduces pressure, allowing people to share code and music freely. He stated that this communal approach helps participants learn more quickly than in formal settings.

The weekly event serves as an entry point into the local creative tech ecosystem. Talambas said that attendees often move from casual participation to joining workshops or producing shows. He believes the consistency of the weekly schedule is necessary for the scene to grow and maintain momentum. The gallery aims to continue spreading knowledge through these regular interactions.

New Media Contemporary has scheduled additional events for the coming weeks. On Friday, October 30, the gallery will host Open Cavas II, an immersive digital graffiti night featuring projections by James Benjamin Maker, Jordan Olshevski, and other artists. Music will be provided by Dewan-Dean Soomary. On Wednesday, November 4, an ambient reading event called BIBLIO:TECH will take place, where guests can bring books and mugs to an immersive art installation. On Saturday, November 7, the gallery will present WOODBLOK TRUNK SHOW, featuring the Blackhouse Collective, Amorsima Trio, and a performance by Talambas on a midi robot piano.

The organization encourages the public to follow their Instagram account and visit their website for donation information. These events complement the Thursday night sessions and provide further opportunities for engagement with new media art and technology in Dallas.