Flinta*Area
In response to requests and inquiries from previous years, and building on our annual SUPERBOOTH FLINTA* Workshops, we introduced a dedicated FLINTA* Area at SB26 for the first time. The area is for people who identify as FLINTA* and provides a supportive, relaxed environment within the exhibition where people can explore, try out, and get to know equipment without feeling pressure or intimidation.
A selection of exhibiting companies provide demo gear that visitors can freely explore and play. All equipment and products available here can also be found in the exhibitors’ regular exhibition areas. The FLINTA* Area is not intended to separate people from the wider exhibition, but to offer an additional space for those who feel that such an environment can help overcome barriers and make it easier to participate and engage.
The space is supervised by experienced, independent staff to help ensure a welcoming atmosphere. Our beginner and intermediate FLINTA* Workshops, held in the Puppenbühne and Workshop Room in previous years, also take place here now. The aim is to foster comfort and self-assurance and to support FLINTA* people in participating fully in all aspects of SUPERBOOTH.
Why does it exist?
FLINTA* is a German acronym that stands for women, lesbians, intersex, non-binary, trans, and agender people. The asterisk (*) serves as an open placeholder intended to include additional gender identities and people who do not fit neatly into these categories.
The history of synthesizers and electronic music has been significantly shaped by many FLINTA* pioneers. At the same time, the scene continues to be male dominated in many areas, something that is now also reflected in the overall picture of our audience.
Most people at SUPERBOOTH undoubtedly feel comfortable and welcome. At the same time, existing social structures and different personal experiences can mean that we do not reach everyone equally. This is not necessarily related to the openness or intentions of individuals, or to the general atmosphere at SUPERBOOTH. People from underrepresented groups may simply experience an environment differently when it is strongly shaped by men with extensive experience and technical knowledge. For some, this can make approaching equipment, asking questions, or simply getting involved feel less natural or accessible.
This is why we believe that creating this area is meaningful. The goal is not to suggest that FLINTA* people cannot or should not participate in the wider exhibition. Quite the opposite. The aim is to support genuine inclusion throughout the trade fair, with FLINTA* people increasingly visible and present in open, busy areas, not only on the stages or in dedicated spaces.
We understand that not everyone shares this perspective, considers such an offering necessary, or sees a dedicated space as the right approach. That is, of course, perfectly okay, and we respect different perspectives and experiences. At the same time, we believe that spaces like this can help reduce barriers, strengthen visibility, confidence, and participation, and ultimately contribute to greater diversity and equality across the wider scene. The FLINTA* Area is not intended to create separation, but to offer an additional space for people who feel that it can help them participate and engage more freely.
We look forward to continuing to create an open, diverse, and inspiring place for everyone who shares our passion for synthesizers and electronic music.