Washington University in St. Louis explores artificial intelligence and design creativity in an upcoming mini-symposium

The Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts and McKelvey School of Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis have announced a new symposium focusing on the applications of AI in architecture and the built environment.

Taking place on April 3rd, ‘AI + Design’ will cover the future of AI-assisted design methods/tools. It also dives into "the future of AI-assisted design and the implications for design practice and training, among other topics."

Distinguished Google research scientist Krishna Bharat will deliver the keynote address, followed immediately by a conversation between alumnus Kory Bieg (AB'99), founder and principal of OTA, and Ian Bogost, who is the director of film and media studies at the School of Arts & Sciences and professor of computer science and engineering at the McKelvey School.

Assistant professor and undergraduate architecture chair Constance Vale will continue the day-long event with a lecture featuring visiting assistant professor Matthew Allen titled ‘The Machinic Muse: AI & Creativity.’ Their presentation will be followed by a panel discussion led by associate professor of interaction design Jonathan Hanahan on the topic of Human-AI Interaction. Finally, the symposium will conclude with closing remarks from McKelvey School Dean Aaron Bobick.

“Among creative professionals, conversations about artificial design can spark both fascination and trepidation,” Sam Fox School Dean and E. Desmond Lee Professor for Collaboration in the Arts, Carmon Colangelo, said in a preview. “This symposium aims to get past the hype and the sensationalism to grapple with AI’s real capabilities as well as the sorts of tools, skills, and interfaces that will allow designers to harness its best potentials.”

Events begin at 12:30 with opening remarks from Colangelo and take place at the Anabeth and John Weil Hall. Registration is free and open to the public. More information about events taking place on campus this semester can be found here.