Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the narratives of our time, providing new tools and methods for storytelling and learning. This transformation was at the heart of discussions held recently at the Biblioteca fra' Landolfo Caracciolo, where experts convened to explore how AI is altering the fabric of communication. The event, titled "Storytelling at the Age of Artificial Intelligence," was organized under the auspices of the County of Naples' Casa delle Tecnologie Emergenti and aimed to examine the intersection of innovative technologies and cultural narratives.
The meeting gathered notable figures from various educational institutions, including Riccardo Milanesi, Professor of Transmedia Studies at Sapienza University of Rome, Giovanni Abitante from the School of Filmmaking AI, and Luca Tremolada, the journalist known for his insights on gaming and technology. The event kicked off with remarks from Maria Grazia Falciatore, Chief of Staff for the Mayor of Naples, who emphasized the importance of integrating new technologies within the traditional contexts of storytelling.
According to Professor Milanesi, cWe have talked about how artificial intelligence is changing the way we tell stories, communicate, and even write.d He highlighted the necessity for young people to familiarize themselves with these technologies to understand both the opportunities and challenges they present to traditional forms of narrative and educational practices.
Meanwhile, another significant perspective was introduced by Luca Tremolada during his book presentation, "La lezione è finita. Come intelligenza artificiale, social media e realtà virtuale stanno cambiando il nostro modo di apprendere" (The Lesson is Over. How AI, Social Media and Virtual Reality Are Changing Our Way of Learning). Tremolada articulated the dual nature of these technologies, posing thought-provoking questions such as, cAre we becoming weaker and stupider?d He expressed concerns about how social media and AI can fragment our knowledge and weaken our cognitive capacities.
Tremolada's analysis digs deep, considering whether current educational practices sufficiently equip students to navigate the complex digital environment. The traditional methods of learning are broadly challenged by the instant access to information teens have, melding perfectly with their social media habits.
On the other hand, Tremolada also advocates for embracing technological advances, framing them as tools for evolution rather than downfall. He asserts, cIf managed with a spirit of critique, these innovations wont condemn us but will offer new opportunities for knowledge and interaction with the world.d This perspective aligns with the underlying goal of discussions at the Biblioteca rallying around enhancing artistic and cultural practices through innovative learning experiences.
The event included workshops with students from the Accademia di Belle Arti, exploring practical implementations of these new tools. By engaging directly with these technologies, students were invited to think critically about their creative processes and avenues for storytelling. The gathering was part of broader initiatives from the city to promote tech-centric educational growth, emphasizing the rich historical and cultural settings of Naples as the perfect backdrop for such innovative exploration.
Noteworthy is the upcoming exhibition from the Troika collective, set to open at the Schirn Kunsthalle Frankfurt, titled "Buenavista," running from March 7 to April 21. This exhibit probes the intersections between AI, nature, and society, showcasing how contemporary artists use these themes to reflect on the rapidly blurring lines between natural and artificial intelligence. Troika's multidisciplinary approach, often interlacing art with scientific inquiry, challenges viewers to reconsider their perceptions of technology's role within society.
Given the broader conversation about AI’s impact on creative fields and education, Tremolada's remarks resonate within the current societal dialogues about how we must reassess our grasp of knowledge and the tools we use to acquire it. The emergence of AI and social media as central figures reshaping narratives raises questions about cultural identity and the integrity of storytelling.
Reflecting on the day’s discussions, one can’t help but wonder whether this technological era signifies the end of traditional storytelling, or if it marks the dawn of new, more innovative methods. One thing seems evident: the blending of AI and human creativity presents intriguing possibilities for future narratives.