Chapbooks Against the Machine: (re)Developing Local Community-Based Publishing in the Age of Generative AI

Following the hypothesis of a revival of analog creativity modes, channels and techniques, the pliegOS.net project promotes paper content co-creation on the spot as a form of resistance against the pervasiveness of generative AI. Originating from the discovery of early 1900s Catalan chapbooks, this ethnographic action research and coop-driven initiative develops open tools for rapid community-based writing and publishing. The project’s activities include chapbook editing and distribution at local fairs and academic congresses, or a mobile printing van at cultural festivals, engaging participants in creating zines using typewriters and collages –about ad hoc and co-decided topics and issues. By emphasizing hands-on, local production methods, this approach highlights the authenticity and immersive qualities of print media against cloud-based AI. Recent experiments with the project tools, such as postal mail-chapbooks for artist residencies and youth mental health projects, further orient our dedication to digital obfuscation techniques and anti-extractive, low-tech creative processes.