Originally written on 12th June 2024
This was the last tutorial before the self study period and it seemed important for me to discuss some changes I am planning to introduce to the research. First, I need to look closer at the assumptions I am making and observe the discourse around generative AI a bit deeper. It was suggested by my tutor that it would be interesting to not just look at safeguarding and curation against new technologies but also look at the utilisation of them for curation. Another aspect that could be interesting is to look into curation as a form of safeguarding. I admit that while I have intimately experienced the creative processes of traditional art and design through my experience of running a studio, I have less than adequate knowledge on the subject of AI. I would need to enter the space with an open mind. For a subject/technology that has only been present in the public eye for a few years, a lot of its influence is unwritten. Most of the discourse around AI art is in the social realm as debates and effect. It is also reflected through the lack of legal stands for or against it. We are seeing this change now, as interested parties – governments, corporations and individuals debate how to approach it. I have been attempting to get in touch with people who are directly affected by this technology but it has been hard. I suspect this may be because many do not wish to become activists for or against generative AI, overshadowing their careers to become a dominant voice in a movement.
Moving forward I would like to explore using Image creators myself, though I had recently used it for the first time earlier this year, I’d like to know more about its functions and potentials. I am hoping to also get in touch with users of the technology and understand how they are looking at the discourse and the validity of the outrage surrounding it. I would also like to explore if the phenomenon truly is unprecedented. Finally, plan and execute interventions that clarify or evolve the way we look at the impact of this technology.