New dialogue in Tulln: AI meets creative art – a discussion begins

New dialogue in Tulln: AI meets creative art – a discussion begins

The “KI ?/& KUNST” initiative began this week with a presentation at the House of Digitalization in Tulln. The aim of this initiative is to promote dialogue about the relationship between (artificial) intelligence and (human) creativity. The participants included readers, artists and experts who wanted to deal together with current questions and challenges relating to the topics of artificial intelligence (AI) and art.

Artificial intelligence is now a ubiquitous topic, especially since the introduction of platforms like ChatGPT. These technologies not only demonstrate the possibilities, but also raise questions about the social impact in areas such as education, journalism and creative work. In this context, Sibylle Moser, head of the E³UDRES² Center for Culture and Creativity at the St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences, made it clear that the level of discussion was often inadequate: “The discourse is often superficial and highly polarized.”

Threat or opportunity for art?

A key theme addressed during the event is the role of creativity in art in the context of emerging AI systems. While some voices praised the numerous new opportunities that artificial intelligence brings to creative processes, others warned of the risks that profound art could be displaced by mass-compatible entertainment. This is not just about preserving critical artistic voices, but also about the question of whether the avant-garde of art is drowning in the dwindling space for individuality.

“Art is a seismograph for social developments and changes,” explained Hannes Raffaseder, Managing Director of the St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences, pointing out that technological progress and the scale of possible changes required a new urgency in the discourse.

Impulses through specialist lectures

The opening event included several keynote speeches, including one by Hannes Raffaseder on the topic "Measuring, disappearing, doubting. Why artificial intelligence needs crazy people". Sibylle Moser also gave a brief overview of the existing discussions on AI and art. These presentations should encourage participants to reflect on their own perspectives and experiences.

Another highlight of the event was the panel discussion, in which experts such as Stephanie Meisl, media artist and deputy chairwoman of the Creative Industries Council, and Veronika Liebl, festival director of Ars Electronica, had their say. Various views on current developments and their relevance for the art world were discussed here.

The artistic interventions by dancer Andrea Nagl and media artist Markus Wintersberger set a creative accent and illustrated the connection between art and technology. The three-part performance, titled “smART Data Bridge & walk backwards through the wall,” encouraged those present to think and created a connection to the topics presented.

This event was supported by the Art and Culture Department of the State of Lower Austria and took place in cooperation with the St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences, the Digital Innovation Hub East and the Digital Makers Hub.

The “KI ?/& KUNST” initiative is open to all interested parties and invites you to examine different perspectives and to respond creatively together to the challenges and opportunities that arise from the increasing spread of artificial intelligence. For deeper insights into this topic, see the report by www.meinkreis.at recommended.