Latest news with #RazmigBedirian
The National
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Culture Summit Abu Dhabi 2025: What to expect during the three-day event
Since 2017, the Culture Summit Abu Dhabi has attracted cultural figures and intellectuals from across the world, offering a platform to reflect upon contemporary societal challenges. Opening today for its seventh annual event, the three-day programme of panels, artist talks, workshops and creative conversations will explore the theme Culture for Humanity and Beyond. Hosted at Manarat Al Saadiyat, the programme will cover a range of subjects that seek to identify common grounds that may help in building a shared, sustainable future. The event will feature three sub-themes, with one for every day of the event. Reshaping the cultural landscape will be the focus of the inaugural day. Renowned artists, leaders, intellectuals and creatives will discuss the ever-evolving global power dynamics during a period marked by the digital revolution and economic inequality. Participants will examine the volatile geopolitical circumstances and how they are redefining cultural identities and societal values. Today's events include highlights such as tech expert Mo Gawdat sharing wisdom on the challenges of AI, followed by a panel discussing the role of culture within global governance. The National's Razmig Bedirian will also share thoughts on heritage rehabilitation during a panel discussion. The National's editor-in-chief, Mina Al-Oraibi, will form part of a panel titled Creative Expression at a Time of Disruption. The day will also feature key performances from artists such as Kirill Levski, a screening of Wael Shawky's Drama 1882 and many creative workshops. The second day of the event will be held under the theme New Frontiers of a Post-Human Environment. Discussions will address recent advancements in technology, including artificial intelligence and biotechnology. They will highlight how these developments can enhance human experience, especially if cultural and creative sectors mould their business models and policies to make the most of these opportunities. Panels will tackle topics such as the culture of humanity in the digital era, machine culture, the interplay between human and technological experiences and more. The National's Farah Andrews will share thoughts on the rise of AI in creative industries in a panel of the same title. Other highlights include Sami Tabchouri, strategy lead at Blinx, hosting a talk discussing how generation alpha is consuming content, while author Emily Kasriel will host a deep listening workshop. The day will conclude with a Jazz Concert by Herbie Hancock Jazz Institute at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. New Frames to Redefine Culture for Humanity and Beyond will be the theme for the final day of the event. The programme will examine the rise of glocal approaches. The portmanteau reflects upon policies that have both global and local considerations. Panels will highlight the innovative and collaborative nature of these approaches. They will also underscore how cultural innovation and technology can help combat growing global polarisation. Some highlights from the day will include a talk by Gilbert Sinoue, writer and historian, on the golden age of Arab civilisation, a panel on culture leaders taking action for the planet and a discussion tackling on-screen storytelling in a post-human era. The day will conclude with a performance by jazz pianist Jesus Molina. More information is at
The National
04-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Are Studio Ghibli-inspired AI images harmless fun?
Are Studio Ghibli inspired AI images harmless fun? With regard to Razmig Bedirian's piece Studio Ghibli-inspired AI images are going viral, but here's why they shouldn't (April 2): It should be a straightforward concept to grasp that using AI to create images in an artist's style without their permission is considered theft. Zal Junaibi, Dubai The only reason people like me have taken to using the Studio Ghibli filter is because we are in love with the artist's work. Maybe it would have been good if the artist made his own filter and laughed about it. The unique stories and characters will never be truly replicated by this programme. It doesn't take into account that Ghibli movies aren't identical. Each is unique. So maybe let the fans have their fun without anyone politicising their funny posts. Don't come after harmless social media users for using a filter we like of movies we like. Sima B, Doha Users should be careful and not forget that they are sharing images and sensitive information about themselves to AI-enabled servers. Farhan Patel, Dubai It should be okay for people to enjoy a dope art style without having to hear complaints even about this. Nabil Hamideh, Los Angeles, California If the artist is against it, then it shouldn't be promoted by ChatGPT Timin Roy, Mumbai, India Israel's ceasefire violations in Lebanon With regard to the article Israel strikes Beirut for second time since ceasefire, killing four (April 1): What ceasefire is that? The one that Israel has violated so many times? A one-sided ceasefire cannot be considered a ceasefire at all. Hasan G, Tyre, Lebanon The relentless war in Gaza With regard to Thomas Helm's report Opponents of Netanyahu issue desperate condemnations of Gaza bombing (March 18): Release the hostages. Stop this renewed ground offensive and bloodshed once and for all. Work out a permanent solution to this. Enough is enough, stop the slaughter of innocent people. Nadia Kaur, Sharjah An Eid tradition with neighbours With reference to Mohamed Fathi's video about Eid sweets (April 1): Lovely to see this incredible lady keeping long-standing traditions alive despite inflation. It's remarkable to hear her say that for 40 years they have been gathering and preparing Eid sweets at home. May God bless this lady, Howaida Abdelaaty and her neighbours with good health and happiness to continue such beautiful and meaningful festive traditions. Ismail T, Cairo, Egypt
