The Impact of Generative AI on Visual Arts Practices

THE RESEARCH PROJECT

This PhD invites applications for those interested in the impact of generative AI on visual arts practices. This PhD might involve analyzing these impacts and practices from a theoretical perspective to generate new ways of framing and addressing the issues raised by these technologies or with a practice-based methodology, which may entail developing new approaches to working with these technologies. Subjects may include, but are not limited to, the aesthetics or ethics of generative AI in the context of visual arts practices, the ways that generative AI is altering established visual arts practices and what new practices generative AI affords.

Those interested in applying are encouraged to discuss the project and their proposal prior to submitting an application. The principle supervisor for this project is: Dr. Claire Anscomb, however, other suitable co-supervisors can be found by reviewing DMU’s research centre hubs.

The lead supervisor’s research profile can be found here, alongside their personal website.

ABOUT DMU LEICESTER SCHOOL OF ART

The Leicester School of Art, established in 1870, evolved through many incarnations, including the Leicester Colleges of Art and Technology and Leicester Polytechnic. Our reputation for quality and distinctiveness in teaching and research is a direct result of our long heritage. The award-winning Vijay Patel building combines all our art and design courses into a striking creative hub. It has been designed to provide the space to foster both creative and technical skills. We have 25 industry-standard workshops and extensive specialist equipment, from traditional hand tools to cutting-edge digital technologies. Our flexible work spaces and state-of-the-art studios provide students with the perfect environment to experiment with different processes and discover new passions. Each course has dedicated studio spaces created to mimic professional practice and encourage student collaboration. Expert tutors and technicians empower students to express themselves and discover their true potential in this exciting and motivating environment.  Visit the Art and Design page to learn more.

PHOTOGRAPHIC HISTORY RESEARCH CENTRE [PHRC]

Founded in 2012, the Photographic History Research Centre (PHRC) specialises in international and interdisciplinary research on photography and its theories and practices from the 19th century to the present day, and is known for its distinctive approach to photography and its social and cultural manifestations. The Centre’s research is distinguished by a commitment to moving beyond disciplinary boundaries to explore the multiple strands of photography’s history; approaching it as an interconnected set of social and cultural processes; and as a visual economy which embraces the photographic industry, networks of photographic knowledge, science and technology, aesthetic, evidential and informational values, and institutional practices. Find out more about the centre’s researchers here.