What's the Future of Art Look Like? A Visual Effects Artist + a Curator Answer | TED Intersections

Overview

This episode explores the intersection of art, technology, and storytelling, featuring insights from Rob Bredow, a visual effects artist known for his work on Star Wars, and Nora Atkinson, a curator who brought Burning Man to the Smithsonian. They discuss how AI and new tools are reshaping creative processes, the importance of preserving the soul in art, and the evolving role of constraints and collaboration in both filmmaking and curation.

Notable Quotes

- The machine can't do what I can do, but actually it does help me with this one part here. Then it becomes a tool, like a better paintbrush. — Rob Bredow, on AI as a creative aid.

- Burning Man had been an aspect of art pushed to the sidelines, and I started to draw the lines between what was going on in the craft world and what was going on out there. — Nora Atkinson, on redefining the boundaries of art.

- Perfection isn’t necessary. Some of those mistakes end up being the gems in the end product. — Rob Bredow, on embracing imperfection in art.

🎨 The Role of AI in Art and Creativity

- Rob Bredow initially viewed AI as a threat but now sees it as a tool that enhances specific parts of the creative workflow, likening it to a better paintbrush.

- Nora Atkinson highlighted the potential of AI in art, noting that the most exciting work often emerges when artists push the boundaries of technology, breaking it in creative ways.

- Both emphasized the need for AI tools to be designed for expert artists, allowing for refinement and higher-quality output rather than mass production.

- AI art is still underrepresented in museums, but Atkinson sees its inclusion as vital for documenting its evolution and showcasing its potential alongside traditional art forms.

🖼️ Blending Disciplines in Art and Exhibitions

- Atkinson discussed how exhibitions can transcend specific disciplines, focusing on ideas and inclusivity to attract diverse audiences.

- She drew parallels between curation and filmmaking, where collaboration across crafts creates a cohesive experience.

- Both speakers agreed that blending old and new techniques—whether in museum exhibits or visual effects—enriches the final product. For example, Bredow shared how Star Wars combined stop-motion, real-time graphics, and physical sets to create seamless storytelling.

🚀 The Importance of Constraints in Creativity

- Constraints, whether technical or conceptual, were described as essential for meaningful storytelling. Bredow noted that the best designs and innovations often arise from working within limitations.

- In filmmaking, constraints help establish a consistent tone and visual language, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in the story.

- Similarly, Atkinson emphasized the importance of crafting exhibitions room by room to evoke specific emotions and create a cohesive narrative.

✨ Preserving the Soul in Art

- Both speakers stressed the importance of maintaining the emotional and human essence in art, even as technology advances.

- Bredow shared how creating immersive environments, like the Millennium Falcon set with wraparound projections, transforms performances by grounding actors in the story.

- Atkinson highlighted the joy of watching visitors connect emotionally with exhibitions, often through unexpected or hidden connections between pieces.

🕰️ Learning from the Past to Shape the Future

- Atkinson shared examples of curating exhibitions that blend historical and modern elements, such as showcasing 19th-century forensic dioramas alongside contemporary works.

- Bredow described revisiting original Star Wars shots to identify timeless elements worth preserving while improving others with modern tools.

- Both agreed that looking backward can inspire innovation, with Atkinson noting that juxtaposing traditional and AI-driven art enriches both.