Hyperrealities and Uncanny Valleys: Provoking Dialogue through AI-Generated Imagery

(a.k.a. “I dream in image generations”)

Written with help from ChatGPT (v4)

Having worked for years in content moderation, my artistic practice delves into issues around the realm of AI image and text generation: embarking on (mid)journeys that explore the boundaries of photorealistic and hyperrealistic depictions of unreal events. By exploring speculative alternative realities, I construct visual narratives that portray political and other figures in hypothetical scenarios that have never unfolded within our objective consensus reality. Through this process, I aim to evoke curiosity and critical thinking among viewers, encouraging them to closely examine and question the information presented to them.

Humor and absurdity intertwine with my work, questioning the dichotomy between good and bad content and challenging societal limits through satire and parody. I firmly believe that the power of image making extends beyond aesthetics, potentially serving as a catalyst for profound societal discussions and inspiring real political change. Thus, I advocate for inclusive access and development, as well as encouraging diverse ownership and direction of these tools.

Within the context of postmodernism, my work ventures into the realm of hyperreality, blurring the boundaries between the real and the imagined. Deliberately engaging with the concept of the uncanny valley, AI-generated images can elicit a sense of uncertainty and discomfort. This unease prompts us to question the authenticity and reliability of what we perceive, particularly the information presented by those in positions of authority. It encourages a deeper examination of the potential consequences and implications of AI-generated content.

As a society, we must recognize that the challenges posed by AI-generated content and potential misuses cannot be solved by a single technical fix, nor should we fall into the trap of relying on AI to tell us what is “real.” Instead, AI-generated content represents an ongoing condition that requires continuous adaptation and proactive efforts to address issues and improve. Rather than advocating for the cessation of these technologies, I believe that navigating this landscape requires continuous critical thinking, adaptation, and open dialogue. This approach fosters a more informed and discerning approach to the consumption and interpretation of AI-generated images, text, and other content.

My work aims to provoke thought, spark conversations, and contribute to the larger discourse surrounding the impact and implications of AI-generated content in our increasingly interconnected world. Everyone needs to have their say in this conversation so we can develop a more nuanced understanding of the role and influence of AI in our society.

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