In-conversation with: Whole united queer festival 2024 (part 1)

PH: Karolina Jackowska

As aficionados of electronic music and purveyors of queer culture eagerly anticipate the sixth edition of WHOLE United Queer Festival, set to unfold from August 2-5, 2024 at Ferropolis, Gräfenhainichen we delve into the heart of what makes this event truly unique. WHOLE isn't just a festival; it's a vibrant convergence of global queer culture, a celebration of diversity, and a powerful statement of unity through music.

This year, WHOLE expands to welcome 9,000 visitors to its dystopian "city of iron" just outside Berlin. But numbers only tell part of the story. The real magic lies in the collectives that breathe life into the festival's six stages, each bringing their distinct flavor of resistance, celebration, and community.

This first of two features spotlights five Berlin-based collectives central to shaping the backbone of WHOLE and the city's queer electronic music landscape. Buttons, GEGEN, Kilowatt, Pornceptual, and Lecken were chosen because of the groups identified contributions to topics surrounding local scenes, queer culture, diversity, inclusion, equity, justice, or any combination of the above that’s centric to the ‘United’ ethos of WHOLE.

As the festival approaches, their stories reveal challenges faced, victories won, and visions for a more inclusive future in dance music.

Buttons, Kilowatt, GEGEN, Pornceptual, Lecken

Buttons, a long-standing Berlin collective, was chosen for their significant contributions to the local queer electronic music scene and their integral role in shaping WHOLE Festival. Their commitment to creating immersive, psychedelic experiences aligns perfectly with the festival's ethos of unity and celebration.

Responses provided by Jacob Meehan, lead organizer for Buttons and co-founder of WHOLE Festival.

PH: Karolina Jackowska

Mixmag: Introduce your collective! What can people expect from Buttons at WHOLE?

Jacob Meehan: "Buttons is based in Berlin. We joined WHOLE during the 2nd edition in 2018, and have been organizing members ever since. Our amazing deco crew, lead by Eva Garland, are responsible for WHOLE's signature beach stage. They always deliver a signature blend of trippy, psychosexual eleganza."

Mixmag: What does the 'United Queer' ethos of WHOLE Festival mean to your collective?

Jacob Meehan: "WHOLE is like a summit, bringing together people from all over the globe. A gathering of our people to fill our creative wells to take back home with us."

Mixmag: How does your collective aim to create a more inclusive and equitable environment within the electronic music scene?

Jacob Meehan: "Say less, do more."

Mixmag: Could you share a recent experience or initiative from your collective that you're particularly proud of?

Jacob Meehan: "We are preparing for a joint 8 year birthday bash with Lecken, both of our collectives started in 2016. We do collaborative parties with them because we align on so many things and help push things forward. Care-focussed raving. Reading the room, but also reading books. De-escalating, but also intensifying."

Mixmag: What are your hopes for the future of the underground queer music scene?

Jacob Meehan: "More venues owned by our people!”

Buttons Berlin: @buttonsberlin https://www.instagram.com/buttonsberlin/

Jacob Meehan: @jdmeehan https://www.instagram.com/jdmeehan/

Kilowatt's focus on amplifying Black voices and talents in Berlin's electronic music scene makes them a crucial addition to this feature. The collectives’ commitment to creating spaces of familiar comfortability for people of different diaspora backgrounds within the queer community aligns firmly with WHOLE's mission of unity in diversity.

Responses provided by Jewel Tekie, Sarah Masete, Liwia Stern, and Devin Pope, of Kilowatt.

PH: Team Kilowatt

Mixmag: Introduce your collective! What can people expect from Kilowatt at WHOLE?

KILOWATT: "We are a Berlin based, black-focused, event series centered around connecting people of different diaspora backgrounds to create a day where you feel a sense of familiar comfortability. You can expect high-energy on the dance floor, lots of laughs with friends, and a packed crowd full of our people."

Mixmag: How does your collective contribute to topics surrounding global music, local scenes, queer culture, international culture, diversity, inclusion, equity, or justice?

Jewel Tekie: "Our collective focuses on highlighting and promoting black talent in different fields like graphic design, set design, and event curation. By prioritizing black individuals in these roles, we aim to showcase black excellence not just in performances but also in the creative process behind the scenes. It is essential for us to address the exploitation of black culture for entertainment without acknowledging its true value, both visually and internally."

Mixmag: How does your collective aim to create a more inclusive and equitable environment within the electronic music scene?

Devin Pope: "We want to make the black community in Berlin feel the most comfortable and provide them a space to meet other people who also like electronic music. At the same time, we are open to anyone who is willing to contribute to the community. When working at the door, I ask people questions like, 'What are their intentions for the night?' or even give people who I think need a push to come out of their shell a 'side-quest,' like going up and talking to someone you don't know or having the best dance session this year. I like to push the idea that everyone is responsible for the overall energy of the party and to be mindful of how you're participating."

Liwia Stern: "Our aim is to create a space where people can feel seen, free to express themselves, and part of a community that we are building together and all contributing to. Our focus is on the Black queer community, but we are open to anyone who shares our values. Each of us puts a lot of care into the way we are facilitating events. For me, that's through set design. I see it as a powerful tool for transforming the space and creating an immersive experience that fosters connection and inclusivity."

Mixmag: Could you share a recent experience or initiative from your collective that you're particularly proud of?

Jewel Tekie: "One recent initiative that our collective is particularly proud of is hosting a panel talk in February in collaboration with the Black Music Summit in Berlin. The discussion centered around navigating the music industry while being entrepreneurial and innovative. The event was well-attended, with a predominantly black audience that actively engaged in the conversation. The atmosphere was respectful, attentive, and conducive to learning, with participants posing constructive questions and showing a genuine eagerness to absorb knowledge. It was a significant and meaningful gathering that brought the community together for a valuable learning experience."

Sarah Masete: "Already being known by word of mouth for the safe space we create and the amazing experience we provide, world wide. Hearing that marginalized people are recommended to join our parties due to that."

Mixmag: What are your hopes for the future of the underground queer music scene?

KILOWATT: "Our dream for the future is a radically inclusive underground queer music scene, a vibrant mosaic of diverse voices and identities. We want more representation from all corners of the queer spectrum, more accessible spaces for everyone to join the party, and a rock-solid commitment to equity. Events like WHOLE Festival are crucial—they provide a global stage, foster cross-cultural connections, and amplify the message that our differences are our strengths. Together, we can build a future where the underground queer music scene is a powerhouse of creativity, freedom, and solidarity."

Kilowatt Berlin (@kilowattberlin): https://www.instagram.com/kilowattberlin

Artistic Director:

Sarah Masete (@xasete): https://www.instagram.com/xasete/

Founder/Curation/Creative Director:

Jewel Tekie (@jewel.juel): https://www.instagram.com/jewel.juel/

Selection/Project Management:

DevinPope (@dvn.mp333): https://www.instagram.com/dvn.mp333

Set Design:

Liwia Stern (@liwiastern): https://www.instagram.com/liwiastern/

GEGEN exemplifies the spirit of resistance and transformation within Berlin's countercultural scene. Their selection for this feature stems from their unwavering commitment to addressing social issues, promoting inclusivity, and pushing the boundaries of queer expression through electronic music.Responses provided by Fabio Boxikus of GEGEN.

PH: Darren Black / @darren_black https://www.instagram.com/darren_black/

Mixmag: Introduce your collective! What can people expect from GEGEN at WHOLE?

Fabio Boxikus: "Originating from the countercultural roots of Berlin, GEGEN embodies the spirit of resistance and transformation. Our name, 'Gegen,' reflects this dual nature—meaning both 'against' and 'around' in German. This duality perfectly encapsulates our ethos: challenging societal norms and creating spaces where queer identities can flourish and intersect freely.

Beyond the dance floor, GEGEN is deeply committed to addressing social issues and promoting awareness about gender equality and inclusivity. We are a platform for revolutionary change through pleasure activism, constantly pushing boundaries to meet the needs of our community. This includes supporting queer, FLINTA (Female, Lesbian, Intersex, Non-binary, Trans, Agender), and other underrepresented artists, championing diversity and inclusivity in the music industry.

At WHOLE you can expect an experience that not only entertains but also inspires and empowers, staying true to our mission of creating spaces for revolutionary joy and inclusivity."

Mixmag: How does GEGEN contribute to topics surrounding global music, local scenes, queer culture, international culture, diversity, inclusion, equity, or justice?

Fabio Boxikus: "Gegen is renowned for its contributions to global music, queer culture, and international cultural exchange, emphasizing diversity, inclusion, and social justice.

We also actively collaborate with international LGBTQ+ organizations and activists, supporting initiatives that promote equality and combat discrimination. Our involvement extends beyond the music scene; we participate in marches and demonstrations worldwide to stand in solidarity with those facing discrimination based on their sexuality or gender identity. This active participation underscores our dedication to global queer solidarity and justice.

Each of our events act as a manifesto against mainstream ideologies, pushing the boundaries of queer identities and fostering a safe space for exploration and self-discovery. This includes enforcing strict anti-harassment policies, ensuring accessibility, and providing platforms for marginalized voices within the queer community. By prioritizing inclusivity in our programming and events, we aim to set a standard for others in the industry to follow.

Through these combined efforts, Gegen Berlin not only enriches the cultural landscape of electronic music but also contributes significantly to the global movement for LGBTQ+ rights, diversity, and inclusion. Our collective's focus on these critical issues highlights the importance of creating a more just and equitable world for all."

GEGEN Berlin: @gegenberlin https://www.instagram.com/gegenberlin

Fabio Boxikus: @fboxikus https://www.instagram.com/fboxikus

Mar__us, Gegen Partner: @mar__us https://www.instagram.com/mar_us

Pornceptual, a founding member of WHOLE Festival, stands out for its unique blend of music, erotica, and social activism. Their inclusion in this feature highlights the intersection of art, sexuality, and politics within the queer electronic music scene.

Responses provided by Raquel Fedato and Chris Philips of Pornceptual and WHOLE Festival.

PH: Thesinfulson - https://www.instagram.com/thesinfulson/

Mixmag: Introduce your collective! What can people expect from Pornceptual at WHOLE?

Pornceptual: "We are Pornceptual, a Brazilian collective now based in Berlin. Pornceptual is a founding member of WHOLE and one of its organizers. This time, we are bringing three of our residents to deliver our unique blend of music and erotica to the festival, and we are also supporting various crews in building play areas in the cruising village."

Mixmag: What does the 'United Queer' ethos of WHOLE Festival mean to your collective?

Pornceptual: "As Pornceptual, we regularly host various collaborations in several cities around the world. We love sharing experiences and learning from other queer collectives. This has always been one of the main motivations behind WHOLE festival: creating a space where collectives can come together to host events collaboratively."

Mixmag: How does Pornceptual contribute to topics surrounding global music, local scenes, queer culture, international culture, diversity, inclusion, equity, or justice?

Pornceptual: "Pornceptual has been political by nature. Throughout the 11 years we have existed, we have used erotic art as a medium of protest: communicating ideas, challenging systems and hegemonic structures, and ultimately changing the world around us through porn. For instance, the third edition of our magazine, titled 'Guerrilla Porn,' addressed the use of pornography as a weapon of social justice.

This approach extends to our club nights, where the dance floors have become places for resistance. Pornceptual's events have always pushed a message of sexual freedom, body positivity, diversity, and queerness. Some events also feature political themes, such as 'Union Porn,' which celebrated the values of a united Europe while criticizing separatist movements and nationalist ideas.”

Pornceptual - @pornceptual - https://www.instagram.com/pornceptual

Website: https://pornceptual.com/

Organizer :

Raquel Fedato @raquelfedato https://www.instagram.com/raquelfedato/

Chris Philips @herr_phillips https://www.instagram.com/herr_phillips/

Lecken emerges as a powerhouse in Berlin's queer rave scene, boldly redefining the boundaries of inclusive nightlife. Lecken has become a vanguard for feminist and trans-inclusive activism. Their unique blend of somatic exploration, political engagement, and unbridled celebration makes them a prominent movement shaping the future of queer underground culture. At WHOLE, Lecken brings this revolutionary spirit, promising to transform the festival space into a playground for radical inclusion, collective joy, and transformative experiences.

Responses provided by Wanda Gaimes AKA Skankstasy, a resident DJ and co-founder of Lecken.

Ph: Courtesy of Lecken

Mixmag: Introduce your collective! What can people expect from Lecken at WHOLE?

Lecken: "Our collective emerged 8 years ago in Berlin feeding on gay cruising club culture and seeking to make this nightlife legacy more accessible and inclusive to fem & trans pleasure. We're ravers through and through, and what you can expect from our collective is a passion for good music and unbridled fun with an unpretentious attitude. Raving is all about collectivity (including economic accessibility and redistribution), stranger sociality (and sexuality), a diversity of pleasures, and an openness to the unknown. It is these values that we stand for as a form of underground nightlife activism.

We've been involved with WHOLE Festival since the second year of the festival and we're proud to have helped shape its cultural and curatorial direction. This year members of our family are involved in curating the TALKS program, the DTF play space, the performance stage and the global bass floor. We will of course also bring our residents (Carmen 16 and KILLA) to the forest stage for some sunrise delight."

Mixmag: Could you share a recent experience or initiative from your collective that you're particularly proud of?

Lecken: "In terms of WHOLE Festival, we're proud to be co-creating the TALKS program, where our co-founder Wanda Gaimes (aka Skankstasy) curates discussions on contentious topics at the heart of our nightlife community. In years past, WHOLE TALKS has hosted conversations with Novara Media, the rising star of independent media, the queer Palestinian movement, Al-Qaws, and somatic justice author, Camille Barton. All of them can be revisited on the WHOLE SoundCloud. This year we're looking forward to a conversation on the politics of (resisting) anti-Muslim hate and Palestinian solidarity, a discussion on darkroom culture between liberation and policing, and another instalment of GayConsent Lab."

Mixmag: What are your hopes for the future of the underground queer music scene?

Lecken: "As our world is moving to the right, and we're faced with the rise of nationalist parties, anti-immigrant sentiment, extra-judicial policing and the repression of liberation movements, club culture has the potential of standing at the forefront of the propagation and circulation of emancipatory thought. This cannot remain limited to the spread of liberal values, like representation, diversity and inclusion, but must include more radical forms of protest, including connections with actually existing movements opposing racism, nationalism and militarism, increased familiarity with liberationist history and theory, and a return to the radical values of counter-culture (esp. anti-policing, anti-capitalism and anti-elitism). Millions of young people turn to club culture for a reprieve from a pathetic present and hopeless future. The choice is up to us, those working to produce these playgrounds. Will our parties and festivals be playgrounds for forgetting and prestige or will they act as structures for learning, solidarity collective growth."

Lecken - @lllecken - https://www.instagram.com/lllecken/

Website: https://lecken.berlin/

Wanda Gaimes AKA Skankstasy (Co-Founder) https://www.instagram.com/wandagaimes/

As we've seen through the voices of Buttons, GEGEN, Kilowatt, Pornceptual, and Lecken, Berlin's queer electronic music scene is a tapestry of diverse perspectives, united in their commitment to inclusivity, resistance, and celebration. From Buttons' psychedelic eleganza to GEGEN's revolutionary joy, Kilowatt's focus on Black representation to Pornceptual's blend of erotica and activism, and Lecken's commitment to feminist perspectives and somatic expansion, these collectives form the local foundation of WHOLE United Queer Festival.

As WHOLE 2024 approaches, these Berlin-based collectives promise to deliver not just unforgettable parties, but also spaces for learning, growth, and collective transformation. They remind us that in the face of global challenges, the underground queer music scene can be a powerful force for positive change.

Our next feature will explore the international collectives bringing global perspectives to WHOLE, from Kyiv to São Paulo, Amsterdam to Hanoi. Together, these local and global voices harmoniously create the experience that defines WHOLE—a beacon of creativity and resistance in global electronic music.