transmediale.05 BASICS focuses its attention on the ethical and aestheticai foundations of a time so rich in technologies, and yet so poor in clearly defined values. The goal, however, is not a simple ‘Back to Basics', or a call to return to established value systems, but is an exploration of appropriate and possible means of agency in today's society. Throughout its varied programme, the festival raises the question of the 'Next Level Basics' and presents artistic projects which, ranging from high-tech to no-tech, propose creative as well as critical approaches to the world in its current condition. In its 18th year, the international media art festival continues the presentation of contemporary art with digital media and the reflexion on media culture.
It is unlikely that, at the end of the BAS ICS festival, we will have come up with a set of ethical rules for the new century. Perhaps, however, we can spread the idea that questioning the foundations of our actions is of particular value in times of moral confusion, especially in ascertaining our identities and ambitions. Art can play a vital role in this search.

This year, the transmediale becomes part of a funding programme offered by the German Federal Cultural Foundation, designed to support exemplary cultural ‘beacons'. This funding provides a welcome financial security until 2009 and is both a distinction for past achievements, and a stimulus for the future. The long-standing organisational structure of the Berliner Kulturveranstaltungs-GmbH and the continued cooperation with the House of World Cultures have again made it possible to realise a professional festival in an inspiring atmosphere. The funders, sponsors and partners of transmediale help to make the festival one of the most important forums for media art in Europe, which attracts a large international audience to Berlin. - It is a pity, as well as more than understandable, that the former curator of transmediale, Dr. Susanne Jaschko, has turned her attention to other projects and challenges after working with the festival for seven years, for which she deserves special acknowledgement.

Our gratitude goes to the patron of this edition of transmediale, Dr. Christina Weiss, State Secretary for Media and Culture and Chairwoman of the Board of the Federal Cultural Foundation.