The Future of Performing Arts in the Age of AI: Insights from Summer 2023
Over the past few months, with the emergence of Generative AI and the release of ChatGPT earlier this year, I’ve observed a fascinating evolution.
Initially, there was a wave of intrigued curiosity, which soon gave way to fear and legitimate concerns. However, in recent weeks, the narrative seems to have shifted, at least from my perspective.
Friends, Artists, performers, entrepreneurs, and leaders have been reaching out to me almost daily, inquiring about the potential benefits and applications of artificial intelligence in their day-to-day work.
While concerns persist, there’s a palpable shift towards understanding and leveraging this technology. Recognizing this need, I’ve dedicated a few hours every day to supporting and guiding people close to me in how to harness these tools effectively.
Within that shitft, I am really looking forward to discovering what the next season of the year will bring. I foresee some continious questioning of the impact of AI but I suspect a growth in adoption from Gen Z and Millenial creators, mostly due to the inherent need of both generations to focus on quality of life instead of only seeing their worth through work like Gen X and Baby Boomer did.
AI’s Growing Influence in Performing Arts
The integration of AI is not just a trend it seems; it may become an industry standard, and adaptation of the artistic process and what is an artistic career seems to be the main theme. I started exploring art and algorithm about two decades ago and had the chance to witness the evolution to more advance intelligent and synergic human machine collaboration.
I feel we are just at the begining of what is to come. The dicovery of new creative mediums, new economic model for art, new creative process and new way to experience art.
The lates productions like “AI in Love” in China have demonstrated how technology can collaborate with artists to enhance the overall experience.
Industry Changes and Challenges
I’ve heard, read, and discussed with peers regarding many concerns around AI lately. I have some concerns too, about ethics, socio-economic impacts, and even humanity’s survival.
Still, I tend to see AI like many major disruptive technologies. The issue is not the technology, but how we are using it, building it, and making it evolve. This could go really wrong, but I’m focusing on figuring out how to make things go well. I have a few articles coming on this soon !!!
Industry Changes and Challenges
The integration of AI in performing arts has brought its share of challenges. The industry is grappling with job concerns, the evolving nature of artistic professions, and notable events like the writers’ and actors’ strikes.
What I’ve noticed and experienced is different. Many tools are helping me realize artistic visions I could never have had the budget or time for. Many young creators are exploring the possibilities, and I would encourage curiosity over fear in dicovering the usage and the creators at the fringe of this disruptive change.
The Human Element in Art
While AI offers innovative solutions, the essence of performing arts remains rooted in human connection. Within that curiosity mindset, there’s also the process of finding something relatable and authentic.
The challenge is ensuring that as we integrate AI, the genuine emotions and experiences that define performing arts, are not lost. I felt and discover that through exchange and collaboration, the healthy and sane way of using AI in art has emerged.
Diversity in AI and Performing Arts
AI has the potential to amplify diverse voices in the performing arts. This democratic benefit is massive and we should embrace the diversity of new comers in the field. In that spirit, ensuring that AI tools are developed with diverse perspectives, data sources, and are balanced in a way to support and represent marginalized communities, is crucial for an inclusive future where all narratives are represented and celebrated. This is also how we will ensure the negative impact of AI can be mitigated.
The Road Ahead
The future promises a blend of AI and human creativity. From choreography to scriptwriting and scene creation, AI’s role is expanding. Additionally, its influence is being felt in areas like grant applications, project proposals, streamlining processes and offering new avenues for innovation. I am more excited than frightened by the upcoming artistic revolution. Art as always been the center of major social changes and I feel we are now entering this new chapter of science and art synergy where something positively transformative will emerge.
Conclusion and Call to Action (MUTEK MONTREAL 2023)
As 2023 progresses, the convergence of AI and performing arts is evident. The industry is at a pivotal moment, and collaborations are key to navigating this new era successfully. As we approach the MUTEK Festival and Forum next week, I invite industry professionals and enthusiasts to connect.
Whether it’s exploring artistic collaborations or discussing potential talks and strategic partnrrships, I’m open to conversations that will shape the future of performing arts. Let’s collaborate and make a lasting impact.
This article was written with the help of ChatGPT, but I took great care in keeping my presence in every paragraph, making it personal and as close to my thoughts and feelings as possible. As a dyslexic person, I feel this tool is helping me to have a voice in ways I would have struggled with. Hope you enjoyed it and maybe meeting you at MUTEK.
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