MODUL VISUELLE KULTUR

DISRUPTING AI

Artificial intelligence is considered a key technology for the coming decades. It seems set to dominate all areas of life in the near future. In aesthetic and creative fields such as visual arts, architecture, film, music and literature, the effects of artificial intelligence are already clearly noticeable: existing patterns are recognised, varied and processed into ever new combinations on the basis of existing data sets. This illusion of novelty not only awakens the imagination of effortlessly mastering new skills, but also suggests quick profits, as generative AI promises to solve all creative challenges through automated workflows, optimised processes and infallible predictions. While some hope for a revolution in the world, others point out that AI undermines essential principles of the quality of human creativity. What is often missing in these debates, due to the focus on new technological possibilities, is consideration of the social, cultural and political issues that artificial intelligence raises today. This ignorance goes hand in hand with an oversight of the thinking behind artificial intelligence and the new forms of discrimination and exploitation that can arise from it.

In the winter term 2025/26, the Visual Culture module will examine the relationship between these developments and contemporary architecture and art. We will take a broader view and closely examine the cultural setting in which AI is currently gaining influence. What is the connection between a growing sense of dysphoria and the proliferation of artificial intelligence? How does the use of AI relate to aesthetic understandings in art and architecture? Can these disciplines make use of artificial intelligence without losing their critical voice in the process of social transformation? Are they the last bastion of resistance or merely passive vehicles of technological transformation?

Situated between the discursive fields of architecture, contemporary art and theory, the module will create a structure for critical reflection, collaborative discussion and material practice through lectures, seminars, reading groups, public lectures, workshops and screenings. Using examples from art, architecture and activism, we will discuss how forms of critical practice manifest themselves, what challenges they face and how they can be initiated.

Students will be required to work both independently and collaboratively in an active and discursive atmosphere. With the support of departmental lecturers and tutors, each student will be asked to produce creative group projects conceived throughout the course, which show practice-based interpretations and reflections on the ideas raised throughout the module’s duration. The module programme takes place every Monday. In addition, workshops with international guests, reading groups and project support as well as supplementary courses are scheduled on several Tuesdays. Building on the individual case studies, this module concludes with a jointly organised public exhibition.

Lecturers:

▶ PETER MÖRTENBÖCK
▶ HELGE MOOSHAMMER
▶ LOUIS MORENO
▶ ANNA RESCH & SEBASTIAN JOBST (KONNEKTOM)
▶ S()FIA BRAGA
▶ BILAL ALAME

For further details, please see TISS and the page TEACHING

Kick-off: Monday, 6. October 2025, 12:00-14:00
Location: Seminarraum AC0440

ENROLLMENT VIA TISS-POOL