What is art? Its dictionary definition is closely tied to the human elements – creativity and imagination. We make art to express ourselves, to express something to others, to intrigue, to horrify, and to mystify. It’s an abstract method of human communication wherein the message delivered is not totally decided by either the sender or the receiver, but an amalgamation of both entities’ experiences. But what happens when AI is used to make art? It seems there has been an explosion of this phenomenon in recent years, with artificial intelligence threatening to nullify the need for graphic designers, editors and other such jobs. The Photoshop “generative fill” is extremely clever, but it’s uncertain what this kind of technology means for those in the industry. Even more alarming than this is the fact that AI can now generate whole artworks from just a few prompts.
Taylor Garcia’s film, however, looks at how AI might be integrated into art, rather than replacing it. Penny (Varda Appleton), a talented art director, is unveiling a new installation that uses AI to express the true subconscious of an artist while they perform. Penny doesn’t seem to be entirely thrilled by this new direction of art, but with trends constantly moving, you either stay relevant or get left in the past. A tech guy introduces the new installation before handing it over to some contemporary dances. Behind them, images, shapes and colours are projected onto a screen. It’s very avant-garde. When Penny is pressured into giving a performance, it’s a bit of a flop. This is probably a long way outside of her comfort zone.
Penny is worried she’s made a fool of herself, but another woman speaks to her in the bathroom and gives some oddly supportive words of reassurance. It seems Penny’s gallery gets a fair few negative reviews, but this woman enjoys reading them to show that even those who are supposed to be the most knowledgeable about art can be completely wrong. Art is, after all, subjective.
Alone in the gallery, Penny has another go with the AI installation. This time she moves freely and easily. Without the weight of dozens of eyes on her, she allows herself to be more fully immersed in artistic practice. Through the images projected on the screen, we can see the joy and fun retuning to her soul. A digital representation of her artistic essence dances across the white background as Penny dances in the foreground. It’s an uplifting and joyous culmination to the film.
With great acting from Varda Appleton, wonderful music from Tim Meyer, and thoughtful lighting and cinematography throughout, this entertaining short is a wonderful example of emerging talent in the industry. Director and writer Taylor Garcia has created a perfect example of what the short film medium can achieve.