Bronwen Wade-Leeuwen

2.56 Exploring Sustainable Futures through AI Visual Imagery in Arts Education (Paper)

Bronwen Wade-Leeuwen – Department of Nature Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia

Abstract:

This presentation focuses on harnessing the transformative potential of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) to shape sustainable futures in art education within university contexts. Emphasising integrations of AI with traditional artistic practices, revealing new pathways for creativity and innovation while promoting environmental, cultural and sustainability Arts. Exploring applications of generative AI in Sustainable Arts Education Projects, that connect directly to UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s), students demonstrate how traditional Italian Fresco making techniques expanded their artistic mediums to imagine new opportunities for environmentally conscious art forms. Drawing on the research work of Dr Wade-Leeuwen, the paper examines “Five Levels of Creativity” (2016), discussing how these levels can further enhance creativity and reflective practices through meaningful integrations of generative AI tools. Wade-Leeuwen’s framework includes: 1. Experimental Creativity: Exploring boundaries and pushing limits; AI allows for rapid prototyping and iterations that encourage artists to explore uncharted territories in their work. 2. Emulative Creativity: Learning from existing artworks and techniques, which can be enriched by AI’s ability to analyse and generate variations on traditional styles and methods. 3. Visionary Creativity: Imagining entirely new inventive concepts and experiences. Generative AI can provide artists with unexpected results and narrative trajectories that challenge conventional thinking towards divergence. 4. Innovative Creativity: Combining different ideas and concepts, where AI can facilitate new connections and inspire novel approaches by utilizing vast datasets of artistic expressions. 5. Transformative Creativity: Effecting changing practices and perspectives, where AI can foster collaborative projects that bridge disciplines and communities, leading to impactful societal contributions. The presentation analyses visual fractural pattern making enhancements, illustrating how AI can aid Artists in reimagining their work through an eco-centric lens informed by nature. Examples of how the Arts emphasises sustainability, ethics and accessibility, fostering a new generation of Artists grounded in creativity, reflective practices and ecological awareness.