A conversation on operational security, responsible technology, and protecting artistic freedom in an era of surveillance and digital risk

This episode of NCAC’s Collective Courage Conversation Series brings complementary perspectives from Sydney Ziems (Founder of Shadowbanned Magazine) and Nik Honeysett (Director and CEO of Balboa Park Online Collaborative) for navigating today’s cultural and technological landscape. As technology becomes increasingly intertwined within cultural work, arts and cultural organizations face new questions about surveillance, operational security, and the ethical use of emerging tools. How can organizations protect the integrity of their work and the safety of communities while continuing to engage audiences, organize meaningful programs, and uphold artistic freedom?
 

Participant Bios:

Sydney Ziems is a designer, writer, and educator whose work examines systems of power. Working across publishing, design, installation, and research. Ziems' work critiques contemporary political structures through visual and editorial practice. Ziems is also the founding director of Shadowbanned Magazine, an independent publication focused on politics and culture.
 
Nik Honeysett is the CEO of Balboa Park Online Collaborative, a San Diego-based, non-profit consultancy that connects audiences to art, culture, and science. BPOC provides IT support and MSP services, as well as business and digital strategy for the cultural sector. Previously, Nik was the Head of Administration for the Getty Museum. He is a former board member of the American Alliance of Museums and Museum Computer Network, and current Board Chair of the Institute for Learning Innovation, a free-choice learning nonprofit. Nik can be found frequently speaking on a range of technical, business, and strategy opportunities and the various challenges facing the cultural sector today.