Subsystence first launched in 1996 as a means to bring together DJ's drawn to a particular sound of music – Detroit Techno and related permutations.
The creative outlet of founder Charles Adler, Subsystence began humbly as a way to meet other DJ's in Chicago, the city he had moved to after dropping out of Purdue University earlier that year. But it was also a (online) venue for those friends and acquaintances to showcase their own artistry. In a city so populated with DJ's (as the birthplace to House Music), we all needed a venue – why not create our own.
Subsystence eventually found a home on Chicago's reputable WNUR radio station, housed within Northwestern University.
The final form for Subsystence took shape as Charles brought his friend Ken Meier into the fold – helping shape what would become a broader scope of work – art as a whole. The original pillar of showcasing art by unknown and rising artists held strong. We opened our doors to a multitude more artists, which only brought more attention to the project – ultimately winning a few awards for concept and execution.
As with many side projects, particularly those of a collaborative nature, they fade over time due to life, responsibility and changing times.
The heart of Subsystence certainly lived on for both Charles and Ken. Charles went on to found Kickstarter – The canonical platform for funding creative projects, globally. Ken went on to found Common Name, a graphic design studio based in New York City.