The Intersection of Art and Tech — Issue 1 May 4th 2024

Greetings from Juergen

Welcome to the first issue of "The Intersect", a publication exploring the intersection of technology and the arts. As an artist, former photographer, app developer, and musician, I'm inspired by not only how technology influences creative expression, but also how artistic practices infuse innovation into technology.

To our social media followers and podcast listeners, this newsletter is designed to extend our conversations about technology and creativity. I hope you, too, will find value and have fun exploring the practical interactions between creativity and technology.

Data Driven Art

Bridgestone uses tyres and spatial AI to literally drive new art

Bridgestone, in collaboration with Distillery, has taken an inventive approach by merging the utility of tyres with spatial AI to craft artwork. By recording data points from a car's dynamic journey, they've transformed a typical drive into an expressive piece of art. This method not only highlights the tyre's performance attributes like stability and control but also connects with the audience on a creative level.

"What is fast is indeed beautiful," remarks Lennard Kwek from Bridgestone. This project aims to bridge the gap between high-speed vehicle performance and visual artistry, presenting a fresh way for consumers to perceive the brand.

I appreciate this blend of technology and creativity, especially as it opens new avenues for consumer engagement. Yet, I envision a future where such innovative concepts also emphasize sustainability. Imagine integrating data that reflects improvements in mileage or reductions in carbon emissions into the artwork, making it not only a spectacle but also a statement on environmental responsibility. This could potentially attract environmentally conscious consumers, adding a deeper value to the artistic expression. Such initiatives could redefine how products are marketed in the eco-friendly era. Campaign Asia covers this pioneering project, showcasing how brands can creatively leverage their products.

Technology in Music

What Scientists Are Telling Us About Our Relationship With Music

Recent studies highlighted by El País delve into the intricate relationship between music, emotion, and human cognition, revealing compelling insights into how our brains perceive and react to different musical experiences. For instance, the University of Zurich study discovered unique neural responses when subjects listened to live versus recorded music, suggesting that the presence of live performance enhances emotional connectivity.

It's fascinating that new scientific evidence supports what we all know: that emotions can be transmitted through sound. This makes me wonder whether similar data exists to show how emotions can also be transmitted visually.

This exploration of music's impact on our emotional state not only deepens our understanding of auditory stimuli but also opens up questions about the broader sensory experiences. Could similar principles apply to our visual perceptions? The implications for therapeutic practices and artistic expressions are vast, potentially guiding future innovations in how we use art and technology to enrich human experiences.

SAG-AFTRA Members Nearly Unanimously Ratify New Sound Recordings Code

SAG-AFTRA members have overwhelmingly ratified a new Sound Recordings Code that includes significant provisions to protect artists against the misuse of artificial intelligence. The agreement, which spans until 2026, ensures that terms like "artist" and "singer" refer exclusively to human beings. Additionally, it establishes requirements for explicit consent and appropriate compensation when using digital replicas of artists. This move sets a precedent in safeguarding the integrity and contributions of human artists in an increasingly digital landscape.

"Among the provisions secured in the new contract are protections against artificial intelligence, which SAG-AFTRA said will go into effect immediately."

The contract also covers major labels such as Warner Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group, and Disney Music Group. With a 97.69% approval rate, the community's support for these measures is clear. As reported by Deadline, this contract not only addresses immediate concerns but also aligns with broader industry shifts towards recognizing and valuing the irreplaceable role of human creativity in music and performance arts.

Sheryl Crow on AI in Music: “Congress Needs to Act Now” (Guest Column)

In line with the SAG-AFTRA Members ratifying the New Sound Recordings Code, Sheryl Crow recently chimed in to emphasize the urgent need for legislative action against the exploitative use of AI in music, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

My Own Take: I somehow feel like musicians are likely more organized and in a stronger position to collectively bargain about this than visual artists, who have much less "unionization density."

While musicians like Crow rally for change at a legislative level, there is a notable disparity in advocacy strength among different artist communities. This suggests a pressing need for unified strategies that encompass all artistic disciplines, promoting a fair and ethical digital landscape.

AI in Visual Arts

AI Fashion Photography - Adstronaut AI Creates Stunning eCommerce Images for Fashion Brands

Adstronaut AI, as discussed on TrendHunter.com, is harnessing AI to produce hyper-realistic fashion photography. This technology challenges traditional roles in the industry by enabling smaller brands to achieve high-quality visuals. These were previously exclusive to larger players being able to afford expensive editorial and fashion photo shoots.

There's much to discuss about the advancements in the field of AI-generated images, as I've observed over the past year from Mid-Journey's work and our articles on the "Uncanny Valley" effect.

The rapid improvement of AI-generated images potentially shifts economic opportunities and shifts roles within the fashion industry. While this may pose a threat to traditional jobs like fashion modeling and photography, it also democratizes the capability for smaller retailers to compete at a higher level, which could invigorate new creative approaches and market dynamics.

Reflecting on this as a former commercial photographer now focused on art, the essential question becomes whether the source of an image—AI or human—alters its value or impact. This progression invites us to reconsider the essence of artistic expression and the authenticity of our shared visual experiences. As technology blurs these lines, finding ways to maintain the human connection in art becomes increasingly significant.

Societal Impact of Art and Tech

Fossil fuelled – the sticky relationship between art and the oil industry

Art's role as a societal commentator extends beyond the canvas, capturing the essence and ethics of its time. A recent article from Apollo's May 2024 issue examines the complex relationship between the art world and the oil industry, revealing how deeply industries influence cultural expression. The narrative weaves through historical instances where art served as both a beneficiary and a critic of the oil industry's patronage, mirroring similar dynamics seen today with big tech and social media.

We often discuss art and technology, and in today's context, this primarily means artificial intelligence. However, big tech, social media, and numerous other influences of industry and large corporations on the arts have also been a focus for the intersection of art and tech.

The discourse around 'artwashing'—where corporations attempt to gloss over questionable ethics through cultural sponsorship—is particularly poignant. As galleries and artists reassess their ties with such sponsors, the article prompts reflection on the broader implications of funding in the arts, urging a reevaluation of where support is sourced and its influence on artistic freedom and integrity. For a deeper understanding, consider reading the full feature in Apollo, linked here.

Design

Apple Designers as International Design Dignitaries & Custodians of Art Process Intelligence

Apple designers are recognized not just for their skills in technology but for their deep understanding of cultural nuances across the globe. This expertise allows them to create products that resonate with a diverse international audience, acknowledging and celebrating cultural differences through thoughtful design.

"Apple designers...act as guardians of cultural intelligence," Michael Darius notes in his article on Substack, underscoring their role in ensuring Apple’s products reflect a broad spectrum of human expression and heritage.

While the idealized view of Apple designers as custodians of cultural intelligence is compelling, personally I wonder about the practical aspects of their day-to-day roles. Having worked for Apple myself back in the day, albeit in a non-creative role, the reality on the ground might differ, with the pressures and dynamics of corporate design possibly diluting the pure implementation of these ideals. Nonetheless, the aspiration to integrate cultural sensitivity into design practices highlights a crucial direction for technology companies: to consider the cultural contexts of their users seriously.

This approach is not just about making products that are globally appealing but also about respecting and valuing the diverse ways people interact with technology. By striving to embed cultural insights into their design process, Apple sets a standard for the industry, advocating for a blend of innovation and cultural awareness that enhances user experience and fosters global connectivity.

The Last Word

Thanks for joining me in this exploration at the crossroads of art and tech. If something sparked your interest, I'd love to hear your thoughts. Reach out and share your reflections or topics you're curious about for future editions. Until next time, keep connecting the dots in your own creative journey.

Cheers, Juergen