AI, Algorithms and Art

« Gaps between the design and operation of algorithms and our understanding of their ethical implications can have severe consequences affecting individuals, groups and whole segments of a society. » (Mittelstadt et al. 2016).

How can we as creators, whether as artists, designers or curators, respond to what AI researcher Stuart Russell simply calls "The Biggest Event in Human History" in meangingful ways?

In this research seminar, we will investigate critical approaches to Artificial Intelligence (AI) and algorithms in science and art. We will read research papers and monographs, watch films and discuss artworks together.  Starting with terminological questions (How can AI and machine learning be distinguished? What's an algorithm?), we will move on to historical enquiry (What were the earliest algorithms and the earliest automats? What were they designed to do?) and, finally, adress socio-political and ethical dimensions of the massive use of algorithms and so-called "AI" (How does algorithmitic decision-making affect fairness and social justice? When would we say that AI has acquired personhood and the ensuing rights?). 

At each stage, we will look at facts, theory and fiction and try to come to a well-argued position.

The aim is to prepare students to contribute to shaping society as active citizens  and artists. The seminar will therefore be strongly intertwined with the seminar on the same topic given by Claudia Larcher (Digitale Bilder - Analoger Raum 1) and if you wish to develop your art alongside your theory, we strongly recommend that you take both. The theoretical discussions from Monday morning will be the basis for artistic experiments Monday afternoon.

Regular participation, 

Realizing work in relationship to the seminar topic

The seminar takes place on Monday mornings.