Microsiphon — Festival of Micro-Publishing

Microsiphon: Micro-Publishing as a Way of Life

The Microsiphon Festival was born in 2017 in Mulhouse, driven by the Microsiphon association, created with the aim of highlighting unique artistic and musical practices. Micro-publishing—distinguished from conventional publishing by its limited runs, artisanal production, and great editorial freedom—is at the heart of the event. Artist's books, book-objects, zines, conceptual magazines, prints, screen prints, and multiples find a privileged space for exhibition and sale here.

MOTOCO: The Ideal Setting for Alternative Publishing

The festival takes place at MOTOCO (Manufacture de l'Ouest, Territoire de la Co-création), located in Building 75 of the former DMC industrial site, southwest of Mulhouse. This artistic third-place, which permanently houses artists' studios, creation spaces, and exhibition rooms, offers a raw and inspiring setting, perfectly in line with Microsiphon's DIY and alternative spirit. The vast industrial spaces allow for the publishers' fair, exhibitions, and concerts to be held in a friendly atmosphere.

A Fair of Independent Publishers and Creators

The micro-publishing fair, held on Saturday afternoon and Sunday, brings together around forty exhibitors: independent publishers, screen printers, engravers, illustrators, bookbinders, and zine creators from France, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, and beyond. Visitors can browse, discover, and purchase limited editions that are often unavailable through traditional distribution channels. The focus is on the quality of artisanal craftsmanship and the uniqueness of the graphic and narrative proposals.

Creative Workshops for All Audiences

Microsiphon offers creative workshops accessible to everyone, led by professional artists and instructors. Over the years, participants have had the opportunity to learn screen printing, engraving, mask making, doll making, or discover traditional instruments. These workshops, offered at a modest price, embody the spirit of transmission and sharing that animates the festival.

An Eclectic and Adventurous Music Program

Microsiphon wouldn't be complete without its music program, which extends the fair with evening concerts at MOTOCO. The festival invites artists with diverse and often unclassifiable aesthetics: post-punk, experimental electro, world music, new-wave, and sound creations. The 2025 edition featured Maria Violenza (Italy, post-punk-arabo-electro), Heimat (France, ethno-post-new-wave), Annie-Claude Deschênes (Canada, quirky electro), and the Orquesta Experimental de Instrumentos Nativos (Bolivia) in a free outdoor concert. The opening Friday evening, free of charge, features a music quiz hosted by Didjier Corrèze.