Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR and AR) and AI in Art is a groundbreaking summer course that will be held at the prestigious Royal College of Art (RCA) in London, starting on August 28. This unique program is the result of a collaboration between the RCA and Acute Art, a leading production company specialising in virtual and augmented reality experiences, helmed by curator Daniel Birnbaum. The course aims to explore the intersection of art and technology, with a particular focus on VR, AR, and AI.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Present Futures course is the involvement of renowned artists who have successfully incorporated VR and AR technologies into their practice. Pop artist KAWS and immersive installation artist Olafur Eliasson are among the guest presenters who will share their insights and experiences with the participants. KAWS, in collaboration with Acute Art, recreated his Serpentine show, “New Fiction,” within the popular online video game Fortnite in 2022. These artists’ pioneering work in blending art and technology makes them valuable resources for the course participants.
John Slyce, the course co-leader and senior tutor at RCA’s School of Humanities, expressed his enthusiasm for the program, particularly highlighting the access that participants will have to the world’s most important artists working with VR, AR, and related technologies. The course offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with these artists and gain insights into their creative processes.
In addition to the artists’ contributions, Present Futures will feature talks, practical exercises, and collaborative workshops, providing a comprehensive learning experience for the participants. British artist duo Gilbert & George and Hans Ulrich Obrist, the artistic director of the Serpentine Galleries, will also be sharing their perspectives alongside specialists and leaders in technology, media, and art. This diverse range of voices will provide a well-rounded understanding of the impact and potential of VR, AR, and AI in the art world.
The program will delve into various aspects of VR, AR, and AI, exploring them from artistic, curatorial, and technological standpoints. Participants will be encouraged to critically examine the influence of these technologies on contemporary art, institutions, art fairs, biennials, and ecological considerations. By engaging with these topics, the course seeks to equip participants with the necessary tools to navigate the rapidly evolving art world of tomorrow.
Present Futures: Virtual and Augmented Reality and AI in Art offers a unique opportunity for artists, curators, and individuals interested in the intersection of art and technology to expand their knowledge, develop practical skills, and foster meaningful connections with leading practitioners in the field. The course promises to be an immersive and transformative experience, providing participants with the expertise and insights necessary to navigate the ever-changing landscape of contemporary art.
For those looking to explore the possibilities of VR, AR, and AI in art, the Present Futures course at the Royal College of Art is an invaluable opportunity to engage with cutting-edge technologies and learn from visionary artists and industry experts. Applications are now open, and spaces are limited, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting journey into the future of art.
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