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Crystal Simone is an independent visual artist and creative consultant specializing in digital and spatial design, music, and fiber arts ︎ Crystal Simone is an independent visual artist and creative consultant specializing in digital and spatial design, music, and fiber arts ︎ 




 WELCOME TO THE DARK WEB ︎  WELCOME TO THE DARK WEB ︎ WELCOME TO THE DARK WEB ︎ WELCOME TO THE DARK WEB ︎
  



︎ WHAT IS “the DARK web”?

the DARK web is a dual metaphor: "DARK" represents marginalized identities—Blackness, queerness, otherness—symbolizing how these identities are often rendered invisible in a world dominated by whiteness. It functions as a collaborative creative space, a Black internet where we can simply exist. It emphasizes the need for alternative communities where Black queer joy, grief, and creativity can thrive. By reclaiming "darkness," we infuse it with new significance, creating a platform that archives music, art, and knowledge, while fostering community, collaboration, and care.

Darkness is often associated with negativity—words like “black magic” and images of ravens or crows symbolize evil and danger. In a society that has weaponized these associations, it is easy to internalize the belief that darkness, particularly when tied to Blackness, is something to be feared or rejected. But the DARK web challenges this narrative, embracing the mantra “there is beauty in darkness” as a guiding principle. We reclaim darkness as a site of strength, autonomy, and freedom, inviting individuals to explore its richness and depth.






COLLABORATE ︎

the DARK web, is a collaborative creative project that explores how we can stay connected in a world designed to disconnect us. At its core, the DARK web envisions a Black utopia —blending digital and physical spaces to create a welcoming, safe environment for marginalized communities. It aims to serve as a "fourth" space, existing both online and AFK, combining diverse elements to foster unique means of connection, creativity, and collaboration.







CONNECT ︎

If you're interested in delving deeper into the DARK web, getting involved in its endeavors, or receiving periodic updates on events and announcements, please reach out. As a collaborative playspace, it relies on the support of many. If you're considering ways to contribute to the project through donation, collaboration, or community support, we'd love to discuss it with you. thedarkwwweb (@) gmail dot com ︎





If you’d like to help fund this project, click here ︎










DIGITAL MUSES

The Dark Forest Theory of the Internet
A Website Is a Room
Black Quantum Futurism
Institute of Black Imagination
Syllabus Project
Twelve Earths
Feminist Manifesto
Transform Harm
Gender Fail
Glitch Feminism

Afro Cyber Resistance
The Data Healing Workbook

The Cyberfeminism Index
Black Beyond
The Center for Afrofuturist Studies





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Crystal Simone © 2024