The Age of Deep Learning: Automated Creativity or Tools for Extending Minds?

This course delves into the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) within the creative sectors, bridging technology and art to explore both its potential and pitfalls. As AI technologies like deep neural networks and quantum computing push toward human-level intelligence, this course investigates the impact, ethical considerations, and cultural phenomena associated with AI's advancements. From the inception of AI in the late 1950s to the present third wave of AI, students will examine how these technologies have evolved and their significant influence across various domains including industry, policymaking, arts, and education.

Throughout the course, we will explore state-of-the-art AI tools utilized in the arts and scrutinize the "devil aspects" of AI, such as political and ethical concerns. The curriculum includes hands-on opportunities for students to engage with AI models for image generation, integrating these tools into their artistic practices to create unique pipelines that combine both AI and traditional artistic methods.

The course aims to provoke thoughtful discussion and provide practical case studies that demonstrate creative and meaningful uses of AI. Students will learn to critically analyze the cultural, social and environmental impacts of AI, foster a deeper understanding of the technological processes behind AI, and develop their artistic outputs using AI technology.

Course Objectives:

- Experimentation and Innovation: Explore and experiment with the latest generative AI models.

- Technical Skills Development: Learn to create unique pipelines that combine AI models with traditional non-AI processes.

- Critical Analysis: Understand the capabilities and limitations of creative AI systems.

- Historical Context: Gain insights into the history and current state of the field of creative AI.

- Ethical Consideration: Evaluate the potential dangers and opportunities presented byDL, focusing on ethical and societal implications.