INDEX 2026: Art and Technology Biennial returns from 7 to 17 May
Under the theme “Power”, the third edition of the INDEX Biennial returns to Braga from 7 to 17 May 2026 with a programme of performances, exhibitions and conferences. This edition brings together leading voices in contemporary thought and artistic practice, including Hito Steyerl, Forensic Architecture & Bill Kouligas, McKenzie Wark and José Gil.
In recent decades, exponential technological advances have driven unprecedented development. At the same time, they have contributed to growing political and social fragmentation, the rise of extremism, widening economic inequality and pervasive algorithmic surveillance. These dynamics have profoundly reshaped global power structures and challenged traditional notions of sovereignty, increasingly influenced by the dominance of global technology corporations.
It is in response to this context that the INDEX Biennial — an initiative of Braga Media Arts — returns to the city with a broad and critical reflection on the intersections between Power, Art and Technology. The programme encompasses performances, conferences, a city-wide exhibition and an educational strand designed to engage diverse audiences. The full program is available here.
During the first weeks of May, the shows presented by INDEX will take over the stages at Theatro Circo and gnration, featuring performances by Forensis & Bill Kouligas, Supersilent + Lawrence Abu Hamdan, Arkadi Zaides, ZABRA, and Nídia & Valentina / SUPA.
As in previous editions, the exhibition programme unfolds across multiple venues in Braga, including gnration, Theatro Circo and Mosteiro de Tibães, joined in 2026 by Forum Arte Braga and Muzeu. The conference programme, aligned with the central theme of “Power,” will feature leading thinkers in art, technology and political theory, including McKenzie Wark, Yves Citton, José Gil, Sofia Miguens and António Guerreiro. Admission to the conferences is free.
Through Circuito — the Educational Service of Braga Media Arts — the Biennial also presents a mediation programme for schools and families. Between 7 and 17 May, young participants will be invited to take part in workshops on philocreativity (philosophy for children), led by Joana Rita Sousa, as well as guided visits to the exhibition programme across the city.
NDEX is an initiative of Braga Media Arts that seeks to explore the relationship between art and technology, fostering dialogue and critical reflection on emerging issues in these fields. It is part of Braga’s action plan as a UNESCO Creative City of Media Arts, with the support of the Municipality of Braga, and is promoted by the company Faz Cultura EM.
