DUMdada

DUMdada is a term used in contemporary art and digital culture to describe a range of projects and practices that blend Dadaist irreverence with modern media and internet aesthetics. It is not a single, unified movement but a label applied by different artists and collectives in various regions to describe a shared interest in experimentation, parody, and anti-establishment critique.

Origins and scope: Since the 2010s, multiple independent groups and individuals have used the name DUMdada for different works and events. Because there is no central organization or manifesto, the term functions more as a loose umbrella for projects that experiment with form, randomness, and audience participation rather than a fixed canon.

Characteristics and methods: Common features include collage and remixed imagery, sound or performance pieces, online dissemination via social media or video platforms, and live events that blur boundaries between art, theater, and prank. Works often employ humor, paradox, and interruptions of conventional value systems to challenge assumptions about authorship and legitimacy.

Reception and influence: Critics describe DUMdada as part of broader conversations about post-Dada and post-internet art, noting its role in foregrounding accessibility, collaboration, and rapid distribution. The variety of practices under the label can range from provocative performances to playful online projects and zine publishing.

See also: Dada, post-internet art, net art, performance art. Because the term is used by disparate groups, readers are advised to consult region-specific sources or project websites for concrete examples.