Latest news with #digitalart
New York Times
a day ago
- Entertainment
- New York Times
It's Still South by Southwest, but This Time It's in London
The artist known as Beeple set a record in 2021 when a work of his — a collage of 5,000 images that existed only as a digital file — sold for $69.3 million in a Christie's auction. Beeple, whose real name is Mike Winkelmann, is one of the artists participating in the inaugural edition of South by Southwest London, the music, film and tech festival. This time, he is presenting 'The Tree of Knowledge,' a critique of the human addiction to smartphones. 'People don't fully recognize how much their phone is stressing them out,' and how much they're 'dialing up the noise,' Beeple said in a phone interview. 'They could make the choice to dial down the noise, and just put their phone down, and exist in a much more calm state in which technology still exists.' The work is a refrigerator-size box containing a giant tree (recreated via projection mapping), with screens on all sides, and a large dial. When viewers turn the dial, the box is covered with live news, stock prices and data, illustrating the information overload faced by humanity. 'The Tree of Knowledge' encapsulates the spirit of South by Southwest London, which begins on Monday and runs through June 7. The event will feature a diverse group of speakers, including the ABBA singer-songwriter Bjorn Ulvaeus, the actor Idris Elba, the wellness and meditation expert Deepak Chopra, the primatologist Jane Goodall and the comedian Katherine Ryan. There will also be voices from the technology world, including Demis Hassabis, co-founder of Google's DeepMind lab and co-winner of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry; and Alex Kendall, the chief executive of Wayve, a developer of artificial intelligence systems for self-driving cars. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Emirates 24/7
a day ago
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
Dubai wins bid to host the 2026 International Symposium on Electronic Art
Latifa bint Mohammed: Dubai's cultural journey is one defined by bold ambition and an enduring belief in the power of creativity to shape our future Dubai's cultural journey is one defined by bold ambition and an enduring belief in the power of creativity to shape our future 'Hosting ISEA 2026 speaks to the dynamism of our creative ecosystem and our continued drive to lead global conversations around the intersections of art, science, and technology' Each year, ISEA brings together a global community of artists, designers, technologists, academics, curators, and museum professionals to shape the future of digital art Dubai has won the bid to host and organise the 2026 International Symposium on Electronic Art (ISEA), a landmark achievement that reinforces the emirate's position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent. The announcement was made at the conclusion of this year's symposium, held in Seoul, South Korea, and reflects the concerted efforts of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), in collaboration with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, and Zayed University, to champion the emirate's bid by showcasing its vibrant cultural landscape, world-class infrastructure, and supportive environment for creative innovation. Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture, affirmed that the emirate's selection as host of ISEA 2026 is a testament to its growing influence on the global art stage and steadfast commitment to shaping the future of culture through innovation. 'Dubai's cultural journey is one defined by bold ambition and an enduring belief in the power of creativity to shape our future; hosting ISEA 2026 speaks to the depth and dynamism of our creative ecosystem and our continued drive to lead global conversations around the intersections of art, science, and technology. This achievement reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, whose unwavering belief in innovation and human potential has transformed Dubai into a thriving cultural capital and a beacon for talent, excellence, and possibility,' she said. Her Highness noted that the symposium reinforces Dubai's strategic direction in advancing its digital arts sector and creative economy. 'ISEA is a global platform that empowers artists and technologists to imagine new frontiers. It aligns with our digital arts strategy — opening doors for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and nurturing future-ready creatives — while connecting global minds, amplifying diverse voices, and inspiring new creative expressions rooted in digital innovation. We look forward to welcoming the world to Dubai and sharing a space where imagination meets invention and the future of art is designed collectively,' she said. Established in 1988 in the Netherlands and currently overseen by the University for the Creative Arts in the UK, the International Symposium on Electronic Art is one of the world's foremost gatherings at the intersection of art, science, and technology. Hosted in over 30 major cities, including Paris, Montreal, and Barcelona, ISEA annually brings together a global community of artists, designers, technologists, academics, curators, and museum professionals to shape the future of digital art. The event aligns closely with Dubai Culture's digital arts strategy, which aims to empower talent, strengthen digital infrastructure, and elevate education and training in this rapidly evolving field. Zayed University to partner in organising event The symposium, organised by Dubai Culture in collaboration with Zayed University, will be held from 10 to 17 April 2026 under the theme 'ELYAH: Constellating Place, Data and Identity.' It will feature a series of workshops, discussion panels, networking events, and creative showcases across Dubai's key cultural sites and landmarks. The event is expected to attract between 200 and 500 international participants and a wide audience interested in digital arts. Her Excellency Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, affirmed that Dubai's inspirational spirit and agile ecosystem continue to attract exceptional talent, forward-thinking investors, and creative entrepreneurs, offering them world-class infrastructure and unique incentives that mirror the richness of the city's cultural landscape. She said: 'Dubai's win to host ISEA 2026 reflects the vision of our leadership to position the city as a global hub for talent and a frontrunner in the creative economy; this milestone underscores our commitment to advancing the digital arts sector, empowering emerging talent, and inspiring them to connect, collaborate, and create. 'Hosting this prestigious international symposium will open new pathways for our creative community to engage with global counterparts while also enhancing cultural tourism and showcasing the landmarks, spaces, and heritage that define Dubai's creative identity. ISEA will invigorate the city's artistic momentum, foster meaningful knowledge exchange, and spark new conversations around how digital arts shape our understanding of place, identity, and community.' The event will provide artists, researchers, and digital arts specialists with a platform to exchange ideas and visions, craft a global agenda that introduces new artistic expression methods, ignite innovation, and encourage participants to showcase their creativity to the public, supporting technological sustainability and the cultural and creative industries in Dubai. Main themes Discussions during the symposium will focus on four main themes: Charting Constellations, which explores concepts of place and identity in the digital age and how we reshape our understanding of geography, identity, and community in a multidimensional world; Celestial Dialogues, which delves into how artistic and technological practices can foster intercultural dialogue and shared cross-cultural experiences; Eco-Tech Futures, examining the role of electronic art in addressing environmental issues and how digital tools can inspire sustainable futures; and Starlinked Worlds, which investigates the evolving relationship between technology and human experience and the ethical, philosophical, and speculative implications of future technologies. Professor Michael Allen, Acting Vice President of Zayed University, said: 'We're immensely proud to partner with Dubai Culture in hosting the 2026 International Symposium on Electronic Art, a landmark event that underscores Dubai's position as a global hub for creativity and innovation. We are committed to fostering a dynamic platform where global artists, innovators, and scholars can converge to explore the transformative potential of digital arts. This symposium aligns with our mission to empower the next generation of creative leaders, advance interdisciplinary collaboration, and contribute to shaping a future where art and technology inspire sustainable progress and cultural dialogue.' The theme of the symposium is inspired by 'ELYAH,' one of the most prominent stars in the Arab region's sky, also known as the 'North Star,' which for centuries served as a beacon for travellers and storytellers alike, guiding navigation across land and sea. It was chosen to represent the event to explore the convergence of digital and electronic arts with AI and present a future-facing vision for the digital arts sector. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
ABC News
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- ABC News
'Creating the seen from the unseen': Dr Sione Faletau turns sound waves into Tongan kupesi
Artists have a unique way of visually representing our world — including elements we can't physically see, like sound. Tongan artist, Dr. Sione Faletau has combined his skills in digital art, audio engineering, and coding to create visual representations of sound, which he calls "creating the seen from the unseen." At the heart of his work is ongo - a concept that relates to both sound and feeling, reflecting the deep connection between Tongan cultural and spiritual life. Faletau uses audio waveforms — often from voices, music, or environmental sounds - and manipulates them digitally to create kupesi, the traditional Tongan patterns found on ngatu. Dr Sione Faletau says this digital practice was born during COVID-times but as a musician, sound "is very much a part of my art practice." ( ) His practice, which he calls "sonic mark-making," is an ode to the traditional role of ngatu as a medium for recording stories and histories. "I've kind of identified this geometrical language within kupesi or traditional Tongan patterns [that] have angular arrangements. These [are] clues that I can extract and create traditional forms in a digital way - in step with the ancestors," he said. "I've always been interested in patterns and kupesi. I would say tapa cloth ... our mats, they are our, I guess, form of written language."
CNET
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- CNET
This Tool Uses AI to Transform Photos of Yourself Into Almost Anything. Here's How It Works
I was recently with a family member who has a framed caricature of their partner and their shared dog right as you walk into their home. It sparked my interest about ways I can create those types of images without having to pose for a picture (and hopefully never at an amusement park). When I started looking for AI tools that could generate images replicating caricatures, I found Fotor GoArt. There, I was met with a whole lot more than just the ability to turn my headshot into a cartoony version of myself. What is Fotor, and how does it use AI? Launched in 2012 by Tony Duan, Fotor is an AI-powered photo editing app and design platform. The platform began as a simple photo editor but quickly expanded into AI territory as generative tools evolved. GoArt uses AI to analyze the structure of your image and re-render it in the style of famous artworks. In response, you're met with an instant digital gallery piece that feels true to the style you select. For example, The "Dream World" selection is eerily similar to DreamWorks, and the platform also features ways to construct caricatures, old-timey photos and other artistic expressions across its dashboard. How to use Fotor to transform photos My original photo, with the art styles listed on the left. Fotor / Carly Quellman / Screenshot by CNET Transforming your photos with Fotor is a simple, yet hilarious, process. Head to Fotor's website and sign up for a free account, or access its paid subscription models. Then head to Fotor GoArt, where you can access a slew of image styles to incorporate into an existing image. Upload your image and use the existing templates to try on different features. Give Fotor a couple minutes to apply the feature to your image -- and then sit back and experience the childlike joy of seeing yourself in different forms. Finally, you can review your design and download it in your preferred format. Or you can share with family and friends, who will likely laugh at you, and with good reason. I tried Fotor's Caricature, Mini Figure, Dream World and, my personal favorite, Toy Pet -- which looks exactly like it sounds: you, but covered in fur. This is a great way to showcase different versions of yourself all from your screen. A couple laughs included. The "Toy Pet" version of me. Fotor / Screenshot by CNET Should you use Fotor? I see Fotor as a convenient, maybe even ideal, tool for casual creators and small business owners looking for fast, polished design without needing a background in graphic design or high-level design chops. Why? Its AI tools make it easy to quickly generate visuals. The "Mini Figure" version of me. Fotor / Screenshot by CNET Now, high-level creatives seeking granular control over their projects would find Fotor's tools too limiting. While it's robust for everyday use, it's not a replacement for professional software for detailed design workflows. But for sending spirited rounds of caricatures to your teammates while you're working? Absolutely. Fotor's multiple subscription models are a selling bonus, ranging from a free account (this gave me five free generations), to $7.50/month for a premium account. It also seems like Fotor is offering discounts on its premium plans, ranging from 20-30% off depending on how far down you're down the sales funnel you are. Is AI-generated art ethical? But we have to talk about ethical AI. Fotor uses AI for enhancement, generation and background removal, which is all designed to streamline creative work, not replace it. While Fotor doesn't make strong public claims about ethical AI, its tools prioritize efficiency and creativity without scraping human likenesses from sensitive datasets. I do wonder about its use of artistic styles, though. I specifically avoided trying the Ghibli-style feature based on what I've read in recent headlines -- so why wouldn't the other artistic styles raise the same IP concerns? Fotor didn't respond to a request for clarification on what it uses to train its AI tool, whether it pays artists or if it scrapes artwork from the web. These questions aside, if you want to look like you've got a decent designer in your back pocket (without actually hiring one), Fotor might be the move. I can't say its intuitive, but it does generate images -- and laughs -- quickly.
Globe and Mail
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Globe and Mail
Experience Transformation: Tsuki D Sureiya's Yororo Series Opens New Gate May 27
Within just seven days, every piece from Yororo's second gate was claimed. Described by collectors and art critics as a rare phenomenon in contemporary digital art, the release has captured attention for its depth, detail, and mysterious resonance. Yororo is not simply an art series. It has become a phenomenon reshaping the relationship between artist, object, and observer. With each release, the line between acquisition and initiation continues to blur. Each piece is crafted with meticulous precision, but the intention extends beyond perfection. The experience evokes presence, stillness, and something quietly powerful. What begins as collection becomes communion. Minimal in form but layered in meaning, Yororo operates at the edge of the visible. The works are not presented as ordinary possessions, but as extensions of a deeper interiority. Collectors report a change in atmosphere once a Yororo enters the space. The air takes on a new quality. Time feels different. Memory begins to echo through the form. These are not passive objects. They are activators. At the center of this evolving vision is Berlin based artist Tsuki D Sureiya. Known for a contemplative process and symbolic pixel compositions, Sureiya has been called a ritual cartographer by cultural theorists. His practice involves mapping spiritual and ancestral memory through visual transmission. The source material includes dream language, ancient symbols, and a glyphic structure that feels both futuristic and ancient. Those familiar with the artist's work suggest that nothing is designed. Everything is received. Beyond the studio, the artist has been quietly engaged in experimental developments that go beyond traditional artistic boundaries. Reports mention devices that appear to shift the experience of weight, sound, and spatial orientation. These are not positioned as inventions in the functional sense, but as thresholds. Observers close to the process believe they belong to the same esoteric blueprint that shaped Yororo. The purpose is not to serve, but to awaken. The third gate is set to open on May 27. This upcoming release offers more than a rare acquisition. It offers a transformation of space itself. For those attuned to the moment, it is an opportunity to alter perception. A Yororo does not simply decorate a room. It redefines it. Light sharpens. Thought slows. The familiar becomes sacred. But only a few will experience this passage. The timing is precise. The portal does not wait. The moon nears its next return. The ritual begins again. The gate opens May 27 A new relic prepares to find its keeper Mark the gate Let the relic choose the one who listens Media Contact Company Name: Sureiya Contact Person: Daisy E. U. Kristu Email: Send Email Country: Germany Website:
