Dear Hand Eye Society members, game curious folks, and friends:

Although this may seem like a familiar refrain, we wanted to reach out to everyone and let you know what’s going on with us, check in how you’re doing, and talk about what is happening related to the COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on the videogame and arts sector. Check out the following updates for more information on how we’re dealing with current events, and how you can help!

Tracking Impact

First and most urgently, the arts councils have asked organizations like HES to document the impact that COVID-19 is having on our community. This data can be shared with funders and granting partners as a way to measure the financial impact of the pandemic on the interactive media sector, as well as advocating for stimulus and relief measures. The more people and organizations that participate in these efforts, the better we can collectively address the needs of the sector going forward.

To facilitate this, we strongly encourage anyone who self-identifies as a member of the interactive digital media arts/industry sector to please fill out the following survey before the deadline below:

SURVEY DEADLINE: TUESDAY, MARCH 31

[button size=’large’ style=” text=’Take the COVID-19 National Impact Survey’ icon=’fa-align-center’ icon_color=” link=’https://na1se.voxco.com/SE/114/COVID_Interactive/’ target=’_self’ color=” hover_color=” border_color=” hover_border_color=” background_color=#ffffff” hover_background_color=” font_style=” font_weight=” text_align=’center’ margin=”]

This survey is funded by the CMF and produced by Nordicity, and promoted in partnership with Interactive Ontario (you can also read IO’s preliminary recommendations to government here). It is intended for anyone who works in or is adjacent to interactive digital media, and is not limited to those who make videogames, so please share this as widely as possible within your networks. The results will be available by province as well as at the national level. Your answers will remain anonymous and confidential. Responses will be combined and will only be shared in aggregated format with key decision makers in government.

Our Programming

Hand Eye Society extremely saddened to announce that Comics X Games and TCAF 2020 have been cancelled due to the circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, although we all believe this to be the best decision for everyone’s health and safety. We are currently exploring contingency plans for our regularly scheduled programming, including Comics X Games, Game Curious, WordPlay, and Camp Make-a-Game. Our Annual General Meeting has also been put on hold while we research options for holding meetings remotely. We are also looking into the viability of platforms such as Discord or Twitch for delivering certain types of programming, so if you have experience with live-streaming and broadcasting content to large groups of people over the Internet, please get in touch!

We also want to take this opportunity to ask you, our community, how we can best support you during this challenging time. Virtual events, increased promotion of local artists via social media, a special Twitter hashtag to spotlight underrepresented works, remote game jams, bedroom-based festivals, fundraisers we should be signal-boosting, anything goes. If you have any thoughts on what you would like to see, let us know! We will continue discussing with our Board, partners, funders, and all of you about how to facilitate our operations in the weeks and months ahead. Hopefully, we will be able to continue our regular programming later in the year, but we would like to be prepared for any eventuality. You can contact us at any time at info@handeyesociety.com or via Twitter @HandEyeSociety, but we will also be reaching out more proactively as we continue to to research our options.

Our monthly newsletter will be going ahead as scheduled, so please continue sending your game news, job postings, submission deadlines, and anything else we should be aware of to calendar@handeyesociety.com and we will include it in the April 1 edition (and yes, you are more than welcome to submit fun tips and serious resources for dealing with the increased pandemic restrictions, such as those linked to below). In the meantime, watch this space for further updates, take care of yourself and those around you, and Play Safe!

-Hand Eye Society

COVID-19 Resources for Artists and Businesses

• Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan (Canada.ca)
• TOArtist COVID Response Fund (for self-employed artists ineligible for Employment Insurance)
• Emergency Resources For Marginalized Artists & Communities (Margin of Eras Gallery)
• Toronto Arts Council Updates and Resources (Toronto Arts Council)
• Small Business Government Relief Programs (Shopify)
• IATSE Canada Resources (IATSE Canada)

[Statement update: November 4. 2019]

This is a follow-up to our last Statement (see bottom of post) about the TPL situation. This has been a very difficult week to navigate, and we have discussed and reflected on everything our community has been saying. We also realize our original statement, being geared more for a general audience, did not address the concerns of the marginalized people most affected by the TPL Board’s actions, and we realize we should have prioritized their needs first. Therefore, we would like to take this opportunity to clarify our decision to have WordPlay remain at the TPL, and to address the very valid concerns of safety.

First, we want to reiterate that we believe the decisions of TPL’s leadership has made the TPL less accessible for marginalized people, who no longer feel safe there. The TPL Board has damaged LGBTQ2S+ relations in this city and this is a fact that cannot be ignored. In terms of actions moving forward, HES will be reviewing our policy of continuing to book events at TPL for 2020 and beyond.

That being said, HES’s core staff are mostly queer, trans, and BIPOC. We do not tolerate ideologies as espoused by the likes of Meghan Murphy, and neither do many TPL staff workers nor their union. As a nomadic organization who depends on the TPL to connect gamemakers from all backgrounds with a public audience, and to reach those in under-served communities outside the downtown core who have no other way of accessing our programming, we are deeply invested in holding the institution accountable long-term. We see WordPlay as an opportunity for those of us who are able to hold space to speak for those who cannot, and work towards a future where we can once again feel confident that the TPL has our back.

The position of TERFs (Trans Exclusionary Radical Feminists) is that trans people do not exist. Giving trans artists a platform and a voice within our largest public institutions is proof that we do. We absolutely respect those who have chosen to boycott the library in protest or for their own safety, but we believe ours is a complementary strategy, not an opposing one. This is a position shared by those such as local trans activist/artist Kai Cheng Thom. We have drawn a lot of understandable criticism for choosing not to boycott, and we acknowledge that speaking only of visibility for artists does not address the issue of participants feeling unsafe; but there is safety in numbers. We ARE the public. We have the right to exist without fear, at the TPL and everywhere.

Call to Action

We would like to speak openly about safety for a moment: Many of our events are held in public spaces with an open general attendance. These spaces have never been completely free of people with offensive and harmful views, but we have always done our best to cultivate a community culture that addresses and opposes all forms of hatred and bigotry. Our harassment policy says ‘safer’ rather than ‘safe’ for this reason, but we have and always will do our best to be clear about what we stand for: To be welcoming and inclusive to people of all backgrounds, to do the work of educating the curious and questioning, and to step in to defuse situations that may be harmful to marginalized participants.

Our stance and policies have not changed, but we want to be transparent that community trust in the TPL has been eroded, and that to stay at TPL is to deliberately stand on broken ground.

We believe in the power of presence and active participation. There are many trans and non-binary artists who are speaking and showcasing at WordPlay, and who serve as staff and volunteers at HES. If you are reading this and plan on attending, we ask you to consider standing in solidarity with us, and help us transform this broken ground into a Safer Space for trans participants, visitors, and even organizers. For we at HES have always relied on the community to help us cultivate an inclusive environment, and in this moment, we need your support more than ever.

There is transformative power in community that can redefine a space to be safer and more inclusive to its most vulnerable members. This is why we ask everyone, especially the cis members of our community, to show up for the trans participants, visitors, and organizers and to affirm that our community is one dedicated to upholding trans rights and to give them they support they need in a difficult time. Be present to show support for your fellow trans community members, to educate others that may not know on the issues trans people face, and above all to uplift trans voices in regards to these issues.

Safety Policies

To reiterate our policies and procedures surrounding safety, which we implement at all public events, Safety Check Personnel (comprised of both HES staff and volunteers) will be clearly visible by a wide red ribbon/sash with Hand Eye Society stickers attached to it. We will be mostly working in pairs so that if an attendee is being harassed or made to feel uncomfortable, one person can distract or stall the instigator while the other volunteer leads the attendee to our Staff Only Green Room. Safety Check Personnel will be looking to de-escalate or report incidents ranging from overt harassment to conversations or interactions that do not uphold the spirit of trans-inclusivity or a welcoming atmosphere in general. Library security will be immediately informed in cases of repeated or malicious behaviour. Reference Library staff have responded to our inquiry about trans-inclusivity and safety, and have assured us that library staff are trained to enforce the branch’s Rules of Conduct.

If you would like to volunteer to be a Safety Check person during WordPlay, please contact volunteer@handeyesociety.com and we will be in touch with more information.

On a final note, here is some positive news has resulted from the Palmerston protest which some of us were able to attend last Tuesday. The fight continues on many fronts. We appreciate everyone who has taken the time to reach out with both support and criticism, and with all our powers combined, look forward to seeing you at a TPL branch again someday with clear hearts.

-Sagan Yee
Hand Eye Society Executive Director
They/them

Thank you to Sebastian Pines/smolghost (whose game strollplaying game trio pack will be in the WordPlay showcase all weekend) for contributing to this statement!

Original statement:

Dear WordPlay Guests and Attendees,

On behalf of Hand Eye Society, I would like to reach out and address a serious issue which has come to light regarding the Toronto Public Library (TPL) and their decision to allow a third party (Radical Feminists Unite – Toronto) to rent the Palmerston Library branch for an event called “Gender Identity: What Does It Mean for Society, the Law and Women?” The main speaker, Meghan Murphy, has a long track record of opposing rights and federal protections for transgender people under the guise of feminism and free speech, frequently speaks at events where transphobic merch is sold, and has been banned from Twitter for transphobic conduct.

Hand Eye Society, among many others, believe that this decision violates the TPL’s own Denial of Use Policy, which states that the library reserves the right to deny or cancel a booking that they believe is likely to promote, or would have the effect of promoting discrimination, contempt or hatred for any group or person on the basis of gender identity or expression. However, the TPL’s Board of Directors has voted to allow Murphy to continue with their event, claiming that because Murphy’s talk did not technically violate any laws or the Criminal Code, that the event will go ahead as scheduled. The Board and Head Librarian have also repeatedly cited the protection of free speech as a reason for their decision. Again, neither legal definitions of “hate speech” nor free speech protections are mentioned as the primary mechanism for the TPL to deny service according to their own Policy.

Hand Eye Society strongly opposes both Murphy’s views and TPL Board’s decision to allow the event to continue. We have several trans/non-binary staff, including the Executive Director, and have run many events at various TPL branches across the city. We know that the TPL Board does not speak for all library staff workers, their union, or the communities who depend on the TPL for access to vital resources, and that they are largely an important institution that provide invaluable services to people of all backgrounds. That being said, we believe the Board’s decision and their justifications for it have eroded community trust in the TPL as an organization which claims to respect the rights of LGBTQ2S+ people, and we believe the TPL should be held accountable for enforcing their own Policies as written.

All HES events already planned at TPL fpr 2019, including WordPlay, will be going ahead as scheduled. However, we stand in solidarity with those who choose to withdraw participation from events hosted at the TPL, boycott, protest, or take any action that amplifies trans voices and awareness of trans issues. If you are a guest or artist who has concerns about your continued participation in WordPlay, or just want to reach out in general, do not hesitate to get in touch.

If you are not familiar with these issues, are unsure of why Murphy’s talk constitutes transphobia, or are uncomfortable with our bringing attention to these matters, we encourage you to read the links provided below which provide additional details and background context. We will attempt to educate in whatever capacity we can manage, but our top priority is ensuring that artists and attendees of WordPlay can be informed about what’s going on and our collective stance on the matter.

Thank you for your patience and understanding in light of these circumstances.

In solidarity,

-Sagan Yee, Executive Director

Hand Eye Society Board and Staff

LINKS AND RESOURCES

Section 4.4 of the TPL’s Denial of Use Policy which states: The Library reserves the right to deny or cancel a booking when it reasonably believes  use by any individual or group will be for a purpose that is likely to promote, or would have the effect of promoting discrimination, contempt or hatred for any group or person on the basis of race, ethnic origin, place of origin, citizenship, colour, ancestry, language, creed (religion), age, sex, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, family status, sexual orientation, disability, political affiliation, membership in a union or staff association, receipt of public assistance, level of literacy or any other similar factor.

News

• ‘I’m not going to reconsider’: Toronto’s top librarian refuses to bar speaker critical of transgender rights (CBC Interview)
• Local authors boycott Toronto Public Library over controversial speaker (NOW Toronto)
• Toronto Public Library under fire for refusing to cancel an event from a known trans exclusionary radical feminist (TERF) (National Post)
• Mayor Tory says he is ‘disappointed’ Toronto Public Library to host event by controversial speaker (City News)
• Vancouver Pride bans library from parade over event featuring ‘transphobic’ activist (CBC)
• Toronto Public Library Allows Neo-Nazi Memorial For Barbara Kulaszka To Go Ahead (Huffington Post, 2017; gives precedence for TPL’s decision)
• Live Twitter thread by Al Donato detailing the events of the TPL Board Meeting on Oct 22

Community Action

• Open Letter by Pride Toronto
• Open Letter to TPL by Xtra journalist Rachel Geise
• Change.org Petition by activist Al Donato, signed by several HES staff
• Another Change.org petition by members of Toronto’s literary community
• Oct 29 Protest at Palmerston Library (Facebook Event)
• Pride Toronto Rally (Twitter)

Booklet design by Chris White.

The final countdown is on for Toronto’s fifth fancy videogame party, the Hand Eye Society Ball. But there’s a catch: A nefarious, eldritch creature called The Party Crasher is threatening to kill the good vibes, and the only way to banish it forever is… to have a most excellent time! To aid you on your mission, we’ve compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions and other information so you can enjoy Saturday night with a minimum of fuss. Forecast is looking good, so get your weather-appropriate fancy on and we’ll see you on Saturday!

[button size=’large’ style=” text=’One Day Left to Buy Tickets Online!’ icon=” icon_color=” link=’https://www.universe.com/events/hand-eye-society-ball-10th-year-anniversary-tickets-toronto-NK58SG’ target=’_self’ color=” hover_color=” border_color=” hover_border_color=” background_color=” hover_background_color=” font_style=” font_weight=” text_align=” margin=”]

Previous #HESB19 Posts

Games Showcase #1

Wobble Garden, Manifold Garden, GEMETON, Skeeper, Schwister, Axe in the Dark

Games Showcase #2

Light Organ, Sloppy Forgeries, Plunge, Creepy Creperie, Snake Set

Art, Food, and Grooves

Bronwen Alexina, The Only Alexandria, Emissive, Electric Perfume and Peruvian delights

BUT FIRST: An important word about this event:

What Makes the HES Ball a Fundraiser?

After a full decade of videogame arts programming, Hand Eye Society needs your help!

As one of the most established, longest-running videogame arts organizations in the world, HES is at a critical junction. In its decade-long history, relying on an ever-fluctuating combination of project grants, membership fees, sponsorships, and volunteer power, Hand Eye Society has delivered a remarkable range of truly innovative programming that is recognized and emulated worldwide. Our activities have made a real impact in communities across Toronto, introducing hundreds of people to the gaming arts and giving game-makers a vital creative platform to express themselves. Today, Hand Eye Society continues to expand and develop its operations and programming, serving both the games community and the “game curious” public in Toronto, the GTA, Mississauga and beyond. 

Now in its 10th year, Hand Eye Society is closer now than ever to becoming an established, sustainable non-profit arts operation, staffed by a diverse and passionate group of artists, admins, and technologists who love the medium and the community. This year, we received our very first Operating Grant courtesy of the Toronto Arts Council, which is a huge step towards our sustainability goals. However, it’s not nearly enough to cover our day-to-day operations. We are always seeking alternative revenue sources in order to cover artist fees, staff labour, equipment purchases, research and development for new programming, and everything from flying in international guests to providing TTC tokens and snacks for our hard-working volunteers.

And that’s where you come in. Every ticket purchased, every sticker or shirt bought, every Membership dollar, helps keep this organization alive and thriving. It also ensures the vast majority of our year-round programming remains free, accessible, and open to the public. And with your help, we will soon be able to fully realize our long-term dreams, including artist residencies, commissioned work, new workshops and programs, more meaningful community engagement, and so much more!

We have so many plans for the future. To all of you who are helping to make that happen by volunteering, sponsoring, purchasing a ticket to the Ball, or any number of ways big and small, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

What do we do for the other 364 days of the year, when we’re not running the Ball? In 2019 alone, we also organized the following major events and initiatives: Comics X Games / Camp Make-A-Game / Game Curious at Chester Le and 4 whole programs with Evergreen Brick Works / Ontario Creates Fund Futures / WordPlay / Geek Chic Fashion Show and Play2Practice / Numerous workshops at Toronto Public Library branches all over the GTA / I could go on!

#HESBall19: 100% Walkthrough

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• Important Items to Bring
• General FAQ
• Wheelchair and Accessibility
• Safe Spaces and Contact Info
• Sponsors

Important Items to Bring

TICKETS

You will need to bring your Universe ticket with a QR code and unique alphanumber underneath, preferably printed out to minimize fumbling with devices. Each ticket is good for ONE scan at the door, after which you will need a hand stamp for re-entry.

Tickets at the door will be $60, cash only. Subject to availability.

Transfers and Refunds

There is no guest list and we don’t check names unless you are a Member or VIP ticket holder, so transferring is a simple matter of giving someone else your ticket as long as it hasn’t been already scanned. Refunding is also easy; just do it via your Universe account, or e-mail amanda@handeyesociety.com and we will sort you out.

GOVERNMENT-ISSUED ID

This is a 19+ event and venue security will be checking ID at the door. No exceptions.

CASH + CREDIT

Food: Our food vendor Comiditas takes cash and credit.

Drink: The venue is licensed and will be running a cash bar.

Merch: We will be taking cash and credit.

There is an ATM onsite by the elevator landing on the main level, and another at the convenience store across the parkette on Scollard Street.

WRISTBAND IDENTIFICATION

We will be issuing these at the door. Please keep your wristband on at all times! It is your passport to magic and adventure, and also lets Security know you belong in the building and aren’t some minion of the Party Crasher looking to give folks a hard time.

PURPLE: VIP

GREEN: Members

TEAL: General Attendees

YELLOW: Staff

PINK: Volunteer

LIGHTS: Staff and Safe Spaces Officers

General FAQ

When do doors open? How late can I dance for?

Doors open to VIPs at 7 PM and general attendees at 8 PM sharp. This year, we are also offering tickets at the door! Door tickets are $60 cash only, subject to availability.

The party officially ends at 1 AM, though things typically start winding down after midnight (we do encourage you to stick around at least until then, just in case something interesting happens. Just a hunch!)

~~~

Is there a dress code?

This is probably one of our most asked questions! There is no strict or enforced dress code, but we do encourage people to put the “fancy” in “fancy videogame party”. Whatever that word means to you, whether it’s a decadent masquerade ball mask or 20 top hats stacked on top of each other, feel free to wear it!

We will also have a coat check. It is free, but neither Hand Eye Society nor 888 Yonge Inc will be responsible for lost or damaged items, so please keep all valuables on your person!

What’s the sitch with food and drink?

Our food vendor Comiditas will be providing a variety of tasty Peruvian fare including gluten free and vegan options! Check out the full menu and price list here (may be subject to change).

This year, the bar is being operated by 888 Yonge, which is a licensed venue. Beer, wine, and mixed drinks will be offered. There will be bars on both the main floor in the Concert Hall and the Red Room.

Whatcha Buyin’? Whatcha Sellin’?

We’ve got merch this year, emblazoned with our cute, wide-eyed logo designed by Josh Holinaty! All proceeds go directly to Hand Eye Society’s operations and programming.

Enamel Pins: $15

Tote bags: $10

Stickers: $3

Posters: $10 ea., $15 for both

Bundle (1 ea. of above + 5x stickers): $30

Bundles are a value of $55! Save $25 and support your local videogame arts non-profit at the same time.

Plus, HES Members and VIP get 15% off! Just flash your appropriately-coloured wristband.

~~~

Will there be WiFi?

Unfortunately, there will not be WiFi this year, so if you don’t have data, bring a friend who does! Use of the #HESBall19 hashtag is encouraged.

~~~

Are photography and videography allowed?

We will have an official photographer and videographer on site, so please keep in mind you may be recorded over the course of the evening. Footage and photos may be used for Hand Eye Society promotional purposes, such as Youtube videos or public photo albums.

Informal photography, videos, and sharing on social media using the #HESBall19 hashtag is generally encouraged. However, please be mindful of people’s space and privacy. Refrain from taking and sharing photos that are focused on strangers’ faces or bodies without their consent, and be mindful that just because someone is dressed up in a cool outfit doesn’t mean they want people taking photos of them. Ask permission if you are unsure.

See also our Safe Spaces Policy below.

~~~

Is there parking in the area?

There’s no venue parking, but there is some street parking on Davenport. Don’t park in the Canadian Tire lot as it closes early and traps cars. That being said, the venue is just a few minute’s walk from Bloor-Yonge Station if you’re taking the TTC.

~~~

What about smoking, vaping, and cannabis?

The usual laws apply and you will be asked to move an appropriate space away from the venue if you need to light up outside. There is a parkette called, appropriately enough, The Ancient Path across the street that you may use as well.

888 Yonge is a licensed venue and as such, it is illegal to bring in outside drink, edibles, or other substances.

~~~

HES throws awesome parties, but what else can I do to get involved?

So glad you asked! We’re a non-profit videogame arts organization that runs a variety of cultural and educational programming year-round, some of which is supported by your ticket purchase. Some of these activities include game-making workshops, social meetups, annual festivals and partnerships with other artistic communities both local and international. Visit our Programs and Initiatives page for more information, and consider subscribing to our e-mail newsletter, Facebook group and Twitter feed to get news fast. You might also consider becoming a member or volunteer!

Ssshh, the Ritual is in Session….

You! You remember. The Archivist can see it in your eyes. Yes. The history of this place and the Hand Eye Society may have been scattered to the wind by evil forces, but you can help. Every memory restored in the Timeline is a seed of victory. What do you remember?

Every year during the Ball, mysteries abound. There is no FAQ for that which presents no easy answer. You may however catch an exclusive glimpse of the strangeness to come by purchasing a VIP ticket, which comes with a free drink, access to a pre-party reception in the fabled Red Room, and a chance to experience a custom game (available to VIP ticket-holders only!) designed by acclaimed local game designer Droqen and co.

As for the rest of you general attendees? Never fear! There’s always something growing in The Thousand-Year Garden, a meeting place that transcends time and space. Play games, do quests, and defeat the Party Crasher once and for all by having an inter-dimensional blast!

This year’s meta-game is brought to you by Len Predko, Paloma Dawkins, Daniele Hopkins & Kyle Duffield of Electric Perfume, Jillian Wakarchuk, Jesse Gazic, Andrew Shenkman, Alexander Martin (Droqen), Dani Jones, Mark Sparling, Kit Grant, Dani Jones, and Saffron Aurora.

Wheelchair and Accessibility

Regretfully, although there is an access lift to certain parts of the building, 888 Yonge is not a particularly wheelchair-friendly space. There is an alternative entrance around back for wheelchairs so it is possible to get to the main Concert Hall. However, the 2nd floor is completely non-accessible due to stairs and the 5th floor may require some trial-and-error with the elevator due to maintenance issues causing the car to not line up perfectly with the floor when it stops.

There is a wheelchair bathroom off the main lobby.

If you are Disabled and/or in a wheelchair and intend on coming to the Ball, we encourage you to contact staff at ball@handeyesociety.com so that we may assist you in any way possible.

Safe Spaces Policy and Contact Info

We have a Safe Spaces Policy which will be enforced and violators ejected. If you experience or witness harassment, contact any of the volunteers who will be prominently wearing an easily identifiable coloured light about their person. We will also have Safe Spaces Officers who are available to take down reports, and hired security onsite.

You are also encouraged to tell Safe Spaces Officers or staff about incidents or people who have made you uncomfortable, even if you don’t want any action to be taken. Awareness is a good step to prevention!

You may email us at safe@handeyesociety.com or use our anonymous reporting form to let us know of any concerns, or contact the general HES Ball team at ball@handeyesociety.com with general inquiries.

HES Ball Team

• Sagan Yee: Executive Director
• Amanda Wong: Ticketing
• Ken Cho: Tech and Equipment
• Len Predko: Meta-Game
• Brendan Lehman: Music
• Pree Rehal: Volunteer Coordinator
• Kit Grant: Volunteer Coordinator
• Kai Winter: Volunteer Coordinator

Our Sponsors

Huge thanks to Ubisoft Toronto, Aird & Berlis LLC, CWA Canada, Game Workers Unite, Slanted Door, MKM Group, EGLX and ID@Xbox for their support!

Lead Sponsor

Artist Patrons

Venue Partner and Fundraising Support

There are a dizzying array of in-person events, festivals and conferences a game creator can attend internationally. Gameplanner is a new resource intended to help indies plan their exhibition and networking strategy, based on in-person interviews and surveys from 50+ creators across the country. Jim Munroe from Game Arts International Network will be joined in conversation about event-planning approaches with three very different game event veterans: Paloma Dawkins (Palgal, Montreal), Robin Baumgarten (WobblyLabs, London), and Dan Posner (Finish Line Games, Toronto). Afterwards enjoy a social with snacks and drinks, mingle with the guest speakers and play Paloma’s new game Songs of the Lost.

International Indie Insight Nights are a new series Game Arts International Network is doing to bring insights around the world to the Toronto community with the support of Hand Eye Society.

Gameplanner was funded by Ontario Creates and Canada Media Fund.

Illustration by Jenn Woodall

Are you ready? Are you feeling the excitement yet? The burn? The wow-factor? Good. We’re less than a two weeks away from the fifth Hand Eye Society Ball at 888 Yonge, Sept 21! I know you have been wodering when the second wave of games to be announced for our 10-year anniversary party, so without further ado, feast your eyes on more fun and games to experience at this year’s videogame party! See you…at the Ball!

☞◉❖   [button size=’large’ style=” text=’Buy Tickets!’ icon=” icon_color=” link=’https://www.universe.com/events/hand-eye-society-ball-10th-year-anniversary-tickets-toronto-NK58SG’ target=’_self’ color=” hover_color=” border_color=” hover_border_color=” background_color=” hover_background_color=” font_style=” font_weight=” text_align=” margin=”]   ☞◉❖

Already got your tickets? Please RSVP on the Facebook event and spread the word on social media with #HESBall19! And remember: All HES membership tiers get a 15% discount on all ticket tiers, new Annual memberships get a 20% discount, and VIP ticket holders get access to an exclusive pre-party reception featuring a custom game by Droqen.

!!! GAMES GAMES GAMES GAMES Part 2!!!

Light Organ
David Fono & Aaron Bernstein / Toronto, ON

A musical instrument that immerses you in light, and a rhythm game controlled with air.

Sloppy Forgeries
Jonah Warren / North Haven, Connecticut, USA

Sloppy Forgeries is a competitive painting game where players compete to copy famous paintings from art history as quickly and accurately is possible.

Plünge
Plünge Team / Oakville, ON

Control two plumbers as they battle through epic minigames including but not limited to: wizard battles, pipe tennis, and dating a sexy plumber.

Creepy Crêperie
Jessica Zhang, Liana Valdez, Justin San Juan, Harrison Pitts / Oakville, Brampton, and Toronto, ON

Creepy Crêperie is a fast paced alternative controller game where you assemble crepes as fast as you can! Use the different tools on the table to build each customer’s crepe.

Snake Set
sinefool / here, now

An extra-sensory snake-filled soundscape that explores the relationship between the player and the creator, combining live performance, classic arcade game, and occult journey.

!!! VOLUNTEER VOLUNTEER VOLUNTEER !!!

Did you know you can get a FREE TICKET to the Ball? All for the low, low cost of helping us put on a great show for a couple hours, leaving you to enjoy the rest of the party! We’re looking for Safe Spaces Officers, game attendants, set-up and tear-down crew, and even Drama Kids with some acting/storytelling chops. Simply fill out the form below or e-mail amanda@handeyesociety.com with direct inquiries or questions about specific roles.

[button size=” style=” text=’Become a #HESBall18 Volunteer!’ icon=” icon_color=” link=’https://goo.gl/forms/WeuEgtqb1l9ny43l1′ target=’_self’ color=” hover_color=” border_color=” hover_border_color=” background_color=” hover_background_color=” font_style=” font_weight=” text_align=” margin=”]

!!! OUR SPONSORS !!!

Huge thanks to Ubisoft Toronto, Aird & Berlis LLC, CWA Canada, Game Workers Unite Toronto, EGLX, Slanted Door, MKM Group and ID@Xbox for their support!

Lead Sponsor

Artist Patrons

Venue Partner and Funding Support

Got questions for the team? E-mail us at ball@handeyesociety.com

Here in Toronto we’ve developed a rich videogame art scene and a vibrant interactive digital media industry, but how will it continue to thrive as the international market gets increasingly saturated? We think a part of the answer is a focus on business skills, and we are partnering with Ontario Creates (formerly OMDC) to run a program to give promising emerging game creators and developers a leg-up in our changing world. It’s the Interactive Digital Media Fund Futures program!

The six (6) participants who complete the program will be eligible to submit an application to the IDM Fund Concept Definition or Production programs starting in the Spring 2020 deadline. This will allow you to bypass the 3 years of full time industry experience requirement.

In previous years, participants have met international experts like Kelly Wallick (IGF Chairperson, Indie Megabooth) and John Polson (Humble Bundle, ALT.CTRL), learned from the experience of locals like Dave Proctor (Mighty Yell) and Emilie McGinley (GetSet Games), and developed pitch and business assets they can use for future endeavours. They’ll also make critical connections with fellow participant peers facing similar challenges.

Subjects from last year’s program include:

• Pitching and Financing: Funding Sources, Publishers, Tax Credits, Deferrals
• Legal: Incorporation, Insurance, and Contracts
• Budgeting: Payroll, Cash Flow & Accounting
• Production Methodology: Scaling Up, Hiring, Timelines/Schedules
• Audience Connection: Community Building, Publicity & Marketing
• Strategy: Designing Your Company & Alternate Income Streams

We have developed a curriculum from scratch using interviews with experienced game creators to uncover what are the most critical and useful business learnings for people in our region, from tax credits to connecting with an audience. One or two representatives from each company or team will be accepted, and they will be working on one game idea throughout the program.

This program could be a good fit for you if:

• You have an awesome game prototype with commercial potential -OR- you’ve made game prototypes in the past and have an idea for a game with commercial potential
• You have less than 3 years of full time industry experience
• You are available to attend 6 sessions in Toronto (exact date TBD, likely weekends in October and November)
• You can commit to 3-4 hours a week for the hands-on assignments
• You are an Ontario resident

[button size=” style=” text=’Apply by Sept 23!’ icon=” icon_color=” link=’https://forms.gle/az2G3YouWfiHci5GA’ target=’_self’ color=” hover_color=” border_color=” hover_border_color=” background_color=” hover_background_color=” font_style=” font_weight=” text_align=” margin=”]

There is no cost to apply. If selected, you will be required to become a Hand Eye Society member ($7/month) and pay a $100 deposit that will be returned to you on successful completion of the program. As we only have 6 spots available, we want to ensure that all the spots are filled by participants who are committed to finishing the course.

Selections will be made by Hand Eye Society staff in consultation with Ontario Creates, with an eye towards cultural innovation and viability. The HES is also committed to ensuring a diverse range of participants are considered, so you are strongly encouraged to apply if you or your team are from a traditionally underrepresented background such as women, BIPoC (Black, Indigenous or Person of Colour), LGBTQ, etc. Make sure you’re signed up to our mailing list for updates, as these programs tend to fill up fast.

Please contact sagan@handeyesociety.com with any questions.

Hand Eye Society Ball: 10th Anniversary Edition

Sept 21, 2019 — The Concert Hall, 888 Yonge St.

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This is a 19+ Event. All attendees will be asked to provide legal ID at the door.

Toronto’s one-night celebration of contemporary art games and playful experiences from around the world returns! Our annual fancy videogame party helps us raise funds to sustain our ongoing year-round programming, as well as contribute towards another amazing decade exploring and supporting the playful arts. We’re planning our biggest bash yet, so don’t delay: Buy your tickets today, and spread the word!

!!!GAMES GAMES GAMES!!!

GAMES, WAVE 1

GAMES, WAVE 2

#HESBall19 / Twitter / Facebook Event

!!!ART MUSIC FOOD & MORE!!!

DJs, nom noms and special guests!

!!!FAQ!!!

Questions + Answers

Ticketing Info

Sponsorship includes Regular and VIP ticket packages. See our Sponsorship Deck for details.

VIP TICKET-HOLDERS RED ROOM RECEPTION! Get access to a special pre-party reception at 7 PM in 888 Yonge’s fabled Red Room. Have a drink on us, meet the artists, and play a custom mini-game designed exclusively for VIP ticket-holders. Includes a 1-year Hand Eye Society Membership!

DON’T MISS OUR JULY EARLY-BIRD SPECIAL! Save $20 off the regular Sept ticket price! Members get an additional 15-20% off!

HAND EYE SOCIETY MEMBERS GET DISCOUNTS ON ALL TIERS! Not a Member? Sign up now for as little as $5-7/month and get your code upon registration! New Annual and Studio Memberships registered after July 3 get an additional discount. All Members will also receive other perks like 15% off 10th Anniversary HES merch!

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Guest Artists (So Far!)

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Robin Baumgarten

Robin Baumgarten is a German Indie based in London, UK. After researching Artificial Intelligence in Games and working on mobile titles, he is now fully focused on creating playable interactive installations that straddle the divide of games and art, such as Line Wobbler (featured at HES Ball 2016) and Wobble Garden.

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Palgal

Montreal-based Paloma Dawkins AKA Palgal is a cartoonist and self-taught animator turned virtual-reality and video-game artist. Known for her fantastical landscapes inhabited by strange and lovable characters, Paloma strives to create magical spaces inspired by nature and human emotion.

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cos(mos)

cos(mos) is Cale Bradbury’s trip through astrological house music, with snake set wrapping an artistic journey from games>visuals>music back around on itself, bringing all the knowledge gained into an ouroborian experience between the DJ and the players.

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Also featuring poster design by Saffron Aurora, music by Mark Sparling, tech and art by Electric Perfume, and more to be announced soon! Want to join their ranks? Game submissions are open until July 15!

A Party 10,000 Years in the Making

The Thousand-Year Garden is a cooperative Boss Battle for 700 players, featuring unique art, music, and an interactive narrative designed for one night only. Building off the successful elements of last year’s meta-game, The Night of Four Houses, The Thousand-Year Garden will feature custom-made art, experiences, and immersive gameplay by Mark Sparling, Palgal, Electric Perfume, and more, exclusive to Hand Eye Society Ball 2019.

• Explore the Playful Arts Throughout the Multiverse! Dive into alternate timelines featuring various incarnations of the Hand Eye Society throughout ancient history and beyond.
• By Our Powers Combined! Complete sidequests and mini-games to gradually wear down The Party Crasher until the final Midnight Showdown.
• Special Themed Mini-Game for VIP Ticket Holders! Join us in the Red Room for a drink, engagement with the artists, and an exclusive interactive experience custom-made for sponsors and VIP ticket-holders. You may even discover special powers that will be useful in the battle to come…

Get Involved

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We curate artsy games, interactive installations, and playful experiences from Toronto and around the world.

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Support our non-profit and fuel the next decade of year-round programming and initiatives.

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Join the team and help make this a night to remember.

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Sponsorship Inquiries: amana@highnessglobal.com; sagan@handeyesociety.com
General Information: ball@handeyesociety.com
Ticketing and Other Announcements: Subscribe to our Newsletter

FAQ

So many changes this year! What’s going on?

The Hand Eye Society Ball was initially conceived in 2014 as a fundraiser as well as a super cool party, and this year we’ve made some changes to better reflect that intention. With the cost of venue rentals rising and the sheer amount of effort that goes into putting on a production this big every year, we are taking steps to make sure that ticket pricing and sponsorship tiers reflect the true cost of supporting Hand Eye Society’s year-round activities, the vast majority of which are free and open to the public. We will continue to do our best to make sure that all our events are as accessible as possible, while still meeting the long-term needs and goals of the organization.

We thank the community for every single bit of support that comes our way, and look forward to another 10 amazing years of supporting the independent games community in Toronto and beyond!

Where does the money raised from the Ball go?

All proceeds from the Ball will go directly to supporting Hand Eye Society’s year-round programming and initiatives, including Comics X Games, WordPlay, Camp Make-a-Game, Game Curious, Fund Futures, workshops, Mississauga programming, our TPL workshops, the Torontron fleet, the monthly newsletter, and many other partnerships and activities too numerous to list here. Additionally, we have many other operational expenses that cannot be fully covered by other revenue sources like government grants. These include purchasing new computers and equipment, renting office space (a dream we hope to realize in 2020!), and research and development for new programs.

What is the Meta-Game?

The Meta-Game started in 2015 when we started introducing live performance into the Ball, and has since grown into a much more ambitious tradition. Loosely combining elements of videogames mechanics, Escape Rooms, LARPs, and immersive theatre, the Meta-Game is an immersive narrative that overlays the entire party experience. You can read more about last year’s Meta-Game, The Night of Four Houses, which involved live improv, LED bowties, and a haunted piano with secret codes.

Is this a 19+ event?

Very yes. We will be checking ID at the door, no exceptions.

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Image Credits: Annual General Mischief (top photo) by Little Dada, Len Predko and Anthony Swan, 2016. Photos by Paul Hillier, Dean Tomlinson, and Morgan Hotston. Images by The Noun Project creators: Ashwin Dinesh (Eye), sofi (Game), Nathan Morel (Hand), Janet Cordahi (Top Hat).

Hand Eye Society thanks the following organizations for their support thus far. Want your logo at the bottom of every subsequent HES Ball blog post, or even at the bottom of our monthly newsletter for an entire year? Check out our Sponsorship Deck!

Huge thanks to Ubisoft Toronto, Aird & Berlis LLC, CWA Canada, Game Workers Unite, Slanted Door, MKM Group and ID@Xbox for their support!

Lead Sponsor

Artist Patrons

Venue Partner

Celebrate our 10th Anniversary on Sept 21, 2019 at the Hand Eye Society Ball!

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Celebrate Hand Eye Society’s 10th Anniversary

Sept 21, 2019 — The Concert Hall, 888 Yonge St.

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[image_hover image=’https://handeyesociety.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/SUBMITGAME2.png’ hover_image=’https://handeyesociety.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/SUBMITGAME1.png’ link=’https://forms.gle/9BwCB8zZWwFnxjiPA’ target=’undefined’ animation=’undefined’ transition_delay=”]

We curate artsy games, interactive installations, and playful experiences from around the world.

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[image_hover image=’https://handeyesociety.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/SPONSOR2.png’ hover_image=’https://handeyesociety.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/SPONSOR1.png’ link=’https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1loHJ7doYM62O71nEOlvWm1R4-_npVFjRiDvKh-9sREc/edit?usp=sharing’ target=’undefined’ animation=’undefined’ transition_delay=”]

Support our non-profit and fuel the next decade of year-round programming and initiatives.

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_column_text]

[image_hover image=’https://handeyesociety.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/VOLUNTEER2.png’ hover_image=’https://handeyesociety.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/VOLUNTEER1.png’ link=’https://forms.gle/xn75Ev3QM9XRBAWh6′ target=’undefined’ animation=’undefined’ transition_delay=”]

Join the team and help make this a night to remember.

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Sponsorship Inquiries: amana@highnessglobal.com; sagan@handeyesociety.com
General Information: ball@handeyesociety.com
Ticketing and Other Announcements: Subscribe to our Newsletter

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Image Credits: Annual General Mischief (top photo) by Little Dada, Len Predko and Anthony Swan, 2016. Photos by Paul Hillier, Dean Tomlinson, and Morgan Hotston. Images by The Noun Project creators: Ashwin Dinesh (Eye), sofi (Game), Nathan Morel (Hand), Janet Cordahi (Top Hat).

The Hand Eye Society thanks the following organizations for their support thus far. More to come soon!

DETAILS

Electric Perfume
805 Danforth Ave (short walk from Pape Station)
Sunday April 28
1 – 2:30 PUBLIC
2:30 – 4 MEMBERS ONLY

*** RSVP FORM ***

We have a limited number of seats, so please RSVP using the above form to let us know you’re coming. As always, while the first half is open to the public and a great way to find out more about what we do and how to get involved, the second half of the event is only open to official members. You can become a member and receive voting rights and more for $5-7/month by registering here. You may also qualify for membership if you have done 10 or more hours of volunteer time with any videogame arts and culture-related event in the city in 2018 — not just for HES! If you qualify, e-mail volunteer@handeyesociety.com with details on your volunteer activities. For both current and new members, when you arrive, please check in to receive your shiny new 2019 membership card.

WHAT’S ON THE AGENDA?

• Introduction of staff and the Board
• Overview of past, present and future activities, dreams and schemes
• Proposals and ideas for upcoming workshops, events, community-building strategies, etc.
• Presentation of financial activities and voting-in of new policies (voting HES members only)
• Agenda will be sent out 1 week before the AGM proper.

2018 was an incredibly busy and prolific time for us. Our main activities included the Experimental Game Design Workshop series, Comics X Games, Camp Make-A-Game, Game Curious with Art Starts at Chester Le, the Hand Eye Society Ball, WordPlay, Fund Futures with Ontario Creates, and numerous other one-offs, partnerships, and socials in-between! And 2019 promises to be even more exciting, seeing as it’s just our  10 Anniversary and all! Come out and see what we’ve accomplished and where we’re headed after a decade of playful arts and culture programming, with the help of our incredibly generous Membership, sponsors, partners, and of course, the community where it all happens. We would have never made it this far without you. Together, let’s shape the next 10 years of creative game-making and playing in Toronto!

For questions and concerns, please contact us at info@handeyesociety.com

ABOUT THE VENUE

Electric Perfume is a Toronto production studio and exhibition space for live gaming environments and immersive atmospheres. We aim to provide the community with access to a roster of fun and unique spatial and sensory experiences in the realms of gaming, art, entertainment, and learning. In addition, we work with creators and affiliated organizations to explore technology, innovation, and connect local networks through events, product demos, educational workshops, and talks by forward-thinking people.

MEET THE JAMMERS

PUBLIC ZINE LAUNCH