Unveiling the Impact of AI in Art and Design: Insights from Industry Experts
Published on: March 10, 2024
In a fusion of art and technology, Caitlin Foley and Misha Rabinovich, faculty members in the Department of Art & Design, have embarked on a creative journey that explores the relationship between artificial intelligence (AI) and human emotions. Their project, titled 'Ecology of Worries,' showcases the potential of AI in the realm of artistic expression.
This unique endeavor involves using machine learning algorithms to generate 'synthetic worries' collected from people over the years. These worries are then given voice through text-to-speech AI, creating a dialogue of concerns expressed by whimsical critters illustrated by Foley and Rabinovich. The result is a thought-provoking animation series projected onto buildings, allowing viewers to encounter these worries unexpectedly, much like stumbling upon their own anxieties.
Foley and Rabinovich see their project as a reflection of the evolving relationship between humans and technology. While it offers a creative outlet for processing worries, it also raises questions about the role of AI in shaping our emotions and thoughts. As AI advances, the critters' ability to articulate genuine concerns has grown, blurring the line between human and machine-generated worries.
Beyond their project, the duo acknowledges the broader implications of AI in the world of art. AI has the potential to empower emerging artists by democratizing the creation of artwork, making filmmaking and virtual world creation more accessible. However, concerns arise regarding the potential takeover of the creative process by AI, potentially impacting the livelihood of artists.
In this constantly evolving landscape, Foley and Rabinovich emphasize the importance of thoughtful reflection on the uses and impacts of AI. They believe that events like the Kennedy College of Sciences Conversation Starter on Artificial Intelligence and projects like 'Ecology of Worries' provide spaces for such reflection. AI is here to stay, and how it becomes integrated into our culture is a complex challenge that demands careful consideration.