⁉️FAQ Friends of HEK

How do I join Friends of HEK?

After purchasing a one-year membership, you’ll receive an invitation link to our private Discord server via email. This is where all community activities and communication take place.

What does membership offer?

As a member, you gain access to a shared space for discussion, co-creation, and experimentation. This includes community-curated exhibitions on virtual.hek.ch, open calls for projects, shared voting, exclusive workshops, and free admission to all exhibitions and events at HEK. Each year, we also host a hybrid summer gathering.

How does Discord work?

Discord is a platform for group communication — think of it as a space with different channels for different conversations. You can chat, join events, and access shared resources. 👉 Beginner’s Guide to Discord Need help getting started? Email us at [e-mail] and we’ll happily arrange a short onboarding call.

Where do activities take place?

Most activities happen on our Discord server. If something takes place on-site or elsewhere, we’ll let you know in advance by email and on Discord.

Why is the membership no longer token-based?

Friends of HEK began as a blockchain project. Over time, it became clear that market volatility, legal uncertainties, and access barriers made participation harder than it needed to be. That’s why we moved the membership off-chain — to make things more open and easier to join.

How long is the membership valid?

Membership is valid for one calendar year from the date of purchase.

How much does it cost?

We offer three standard price tiers:

• Cute Friend – CHF 50.–

• Iconic Friend – CHF 100.–

• Mega Friend – CHF 600.–

You choose the tier that works for you. Everyone receives the same benefits. If you’d like to give more, you can become an Ultimate Friend (CHF 650+), with or without public mention.

What is a DAO?

DAO stands for Decentralized Autonomous Organization — a model of collective governance originally built on the blockchain. While Friends of HEK is no longer token-based, the core idea of shared responsibility still shapes the project. You could think of us as a “DOW” — a Decentralized Organization Worldwide.

Is there onboarding or help for new members?

Yes! If you’re new to Discord or want help finding your way around, we’re happy to walk you through it. Just get in touch: [e-mail].

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More Questions

Do I need to be active to stay a member?

No pressure at all. You can be as active or passive as you like — join discussions, vote, propose ideas, or simply observe and stay informed.

Do I need to be an artist or have experience with media art?

Not at all! Friends of HEK is open to everyone — whether you’re an artist, researcher, enthusiast, or just curious about collective work and digital culture.

What kind of decisions can I take part in?

Members are invited to shape the program — from curating exhibitions and selecting artists to proposing projects and helping decide what to fund or focus on.