Like the character Proteus in the novel "Player Piano," we are at the forefront of a peaceful rebellion against our over-optimized, digitized society. We believe in the power of human creativity and connection, and hope to build that, a workshop at a time.
Phone Addiction Is Making Us More Anxious, Divided, and Lonely
The rise in anxiety, depression, and loneliness among Americans — especially teenagers and young adults — correlates directly with the adoption of smartphones and the hours we spend on social media. The effects worsen everything from political divisions to drug epidemics and a lack of family creation.
Attention spans and learning abilities have decreased over time, with the current crop of high school students being the first generation in American history to do worse on tests than their parents.
A creative economy so reliant on what gets favored by algorithms has resulted in an onslaught of "slop" being promoted, leaving many dedicated artists out in the cold.
The Opportunity
Knowledge of the negative effects of social media and smartphones is increasingly widespread, led by researchers like psychology professor Jonathan Haidt. Many school districts have begun banning phones, and Australia has banned social media for those under 16. While the Proteus Club does not direct legislation, we help provide a fun, positive in-person alternative that also spreads awareness of the problems caused by our overly digital world.
As social media continues to grow into the "default medium" of culture, it cannibalizes what once made it unique and engaging. Around half of young people say they want to spend less time on social media, but struggle to quit given a fear of missing out.
Artists and creatives tired of fighting for scraps in an algorithm can create opportunities to work with and present their work to new audiences in person.
While there are plenty of in-person creative events, few guided experiences explicitly remove phones as a condition of participation. Several student no-phone clubs and "Offline" parties have already been created and seen considerable success.
Our Solution
Offline Focus: It is easier to create without a distraction in your pocket. The Proteus Club will help you learn a skill and exercise your imagination.
Creative Community: Rather than stay off your phone alone, the Proteus Club allows you to make friends and meet creative, interesting people who hold you accountable. Regular meetings will spark not only ideas and skills, but relationships and memories that you will carry beyond the lens of your phone camera.
A Unique, Memorable Experience: The absence of phones makes the Proteus Club creative workshop an event unlike any other. Additionally, existing creative events who commit to having no phones can become Proteus Club events upon committing to this goal.
