The Decentralized Distribution Nodes is a DIY distribution method. Previous residents of the Hammock Residency are contacted, and asked to distribute 20 of each publication from that year in their area. In 2021 there were 10 nodes, and there may be more nodes in the future. Each node distributes 20 publications from each resident that year, and places them in culturally important spaces for their community.

The nodes are distributed mainly across Canada, but also include the States and International communities, based on where the contacted residents come from. In this manner, we keep the decentralized heartstrings of Hammock alive, and access a mixture of urban and rural environments.

The publications at Hammock Residency are self published through Hammock Residency Press (est 2013), and have worked with Project Space, Moniker Press, and cornerstore photocopiers over the years for printing. The Decentralized Distribution Nodes seek out a similar innovation, practicality, and whimsy. As the Hammock Residency grows, the nodes and press will as well.

Image Credit: Patrick Cruz

For those that are interested in etymology, decentralized refers to an activity or organization controlled by several local offices or authorities rather than one single one. Distribution refers to the action of sharing something out among a number of recipients; the action or process of supplying goods to retailers; the different number of cards of each suit in a player’s hands; and finally, the way in which something is shared out among a group or spread over an area. In telecommunication, nodes refer to the Latin word ‘knot’ and is either a redistribution point or a communication endpoint.