How is machine learning and AI offering new modes of storytelling and story-making; challenging traditional frameworks of representation and production in cinema and digital image making?

In partnership with Abandon Normal Devices, the student will investigate how machine learning offers a new model for storytelling. The rise of crowd-sourced big data, coupled with new processors, has enabled a massive acceleration in the development of the neural networks that enable machines to become more intelligent. By connecting the fields of cinema and computing we investigate the opportunities this offers for alternative exhibition contexts, collaborative working and developing emotional resonance with audiences. Machine learning offers not just a way of intervening in the world, but learning from it.

Through this project we will collaborate with the people who make these technologies, investigate more open access to data and hardware, develop stronger relationships with a publicly-funded institutions, and develop a platform for reflection and debate so we can fully understand the creative opportunities this offers for filmmakers and cultural organisations.

Aims:
◾To understand the ethical and political implications of using machine learning in the context of cinema and audiences. I.e. what are the implications of tracking audience engagement?
◾To research how the field of cinema can be studied through computation, i.e. how does a computer see a film?
◾To research how audience experiences of cinema can be expanded through existing and future platforms
◾To conduct a practice-based research study that culminates in an exhibition or/and performance around notions of future cinema/film.

Objectives:
◾To raise awareness of machine learning as a tool for creation in moving image contexts
◾To push the boundaries of artistic and scientific practice in expanded cinema through using advanced computation, interaction and fabrication technologies.
◾To work directly with practitioners to develop new techniques, formats for cinematic exhibition
◾To place this research in current discussions around data rights management and legislation (how does the re- use of film material reject the narrow view of piracy as illicit activity)
◾To establish this research and practice in a contextual history of expanded cinema

To touch on fundamental questions about our emotional relationships with machines, as well as the politics of the systems in which these technological developments are created and used
To use case studies to evidence the use of intelligent machines in art, and about the implications of how intelligent machines are being incorporated into our lives.

From a methodological point of view the aims and objectives will be achieved by:
The development of projects, prototypes a series of experiments, curated events and interviews with filmmakers, artists and technologists, related professionals, workshops and performances facilitated through Abandon Normal Devices.