ARTSINST 242:
Contemporary Art in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (ARTHIST 254, ARTHIST 344, EASTASN 242)
This course delves into the rapidly evolving landscape of contemporary art as it intertwines with the advancements in artificial intelligence. Students will explore how artists from Asia and its diaspora are harnessing the capabilities of AI to redefine artistic expressions, appropriate traditional media and aesthetics, and interrogate the boundaries between human creativity and machine intelligence. Drawing upon case studies, hands-on experiments, and critical discussions, students will gain a deeper understanding of the sociocultural implications of AI-infused artistry and its impact on society. This course contextualizes its content in a global narrative, discussing challenging themes and existential inquiries AI has evoked worldwide. Situating AI in the long history of machines, automation, and human engagement with technologies, the class encourages students to think critically about the "transformations" AI made to society. Central to our exploration will be the fundamental questions of what it means to be "human" in a world where machines can mimic, and even surpass, human cognition in certain domains. Drawing parallels between diverse cultures and technologies, we will dissect how human-machine collaborations shape our perceptions of reality, authenticity, emotion, and creativity. Through examination of both Asian philosophies and theories of posthumanism, students will reflect upon the broader philosophical implications of a world where artificial and human intelligence coexist, intertwining and reshaping the very fabric of society, culture, and personal experience. Instructor: Gerui Wang.
Terms: Spr
| Units: 3-5