Creative AI: Filmmaking, Writing & Art in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

It's A Symbolic Sandbox: John Brennan (Filmmaker, Professor)

Virtual cameras, Stable Diffusion, Midjourney, Houdini, Flux, ChatGPT -- Filmmaker and Professor John Brennan uses them all. John is a second member of the AI vanguard teaching at USC (after last week's guest, Scott Easley), who discusses his journey in interactive media and motion capture, and examines, often profoundly, the evolution of technology in the creative process. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and the role of AI in enhancing creativity while also addressing the challenges artists face when using AI tools. The discussion also hits on the balance between individual creativity and collaboration, the impact of AI on artistic expression, and the harrowing – yes, harrowing! – experience of training AI models to reflect personal artistic styles. Over this hour, we discuss so many fascinating topics I can’t even list them all in a quick intro: the intricacies of machine learning and AI in the context of art and creativity, explore the technical aspects of diffusion models, the ethical implications of AI-generated art, and the evolving relationship between artists and technology, the balance between utilizing AI as a creative tool and maintaining artistic control, and the future of AI in the creative process. We even go on at length about Aristotle.
ONE NOTE: the audio is really rough at the outset, but then gets better, but is never 100% – but I HAD to release this episode, because we go to such interesting places. Please bear with it and trust me, the concepts and conversation are worth it.
*****
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to John Brennan and His Background02:16 The Evolution of Motion Capture and Interactive Media06:35 AI's Role in Creative Processes and Virtual Production11:00 The Balance of Collaboration and Individual Creativity17:54 Exploring AI Tools and Their Impact on Art21:58 The Harrowing Process of Training AI Models26:42 Exploring the Depths of Machine Learning30:55 The Legal and Ethical Landscape of AI Art33:59 The Creative Sandbox: Merging Concepts and Ideas38:46 Navigating Aesthetics: The Quest for Imperfection47:41 The Future of AI in Creative Processes
*****
Takeaways
* John Brennan is a pioneer in interactive media and motion capture.* The evolution of motion capture has opened new creative possibilities.* AI is becoming integral to creative processes in film and gaming.* Collaboration is essential in creative projects, even with advanced technology.* Artists face self-doubt when training AI on their own work.* The balance between individual creativity and collaboration is crucial.* AI tools can enhance artistic expression but also present challenges.* Training AI models can be a harrowing experience for artists.* The importance of iteration and serendipity in creative work.* Understanding AI tools requires nuanced engagement from artists. John expresses a deep interest in understanding the technical workings of AI tools.* The conversation touches on the legal implications of using AI-generated art.* AI models like stable diffusion raise questions about originality and artistic ownership.* The ability to remix and combine concepts is a key feature of AI art tools.* There is a tension between the perfection of AI-generated images and the desire for human imperfection.* The role of the artist is evolving in the age of AI, requiring new forms of collaboration.* John emphasizes the importance of maintaining control over the creative process.* The discussion reflects on the philosophical implications of AI in art creation.* AI tools can serve as a source of inspiration but should not replace the artist's intuition.* The future of AI in art will require a nuanced understanding of its capabilities and limitations.
*****
Sound Bites
"I'm interested when things are especially unsettled.""What do we need to do on a mocap stage?""AI being the next step of that process.""Finding those places for iteration and serendipity.""Do we lose something in the access to serendipity?""I started trying to make my footprint less and less.""This is a machine drawing and a machine rendering.""It's a meaning or a symbolic sandbox.""I'm swimming in a sea of beautiful mediocrity.""It's about when do I have control.""We will be using it as a form of outsourcing."
 

It's All Adult LEGOs For Me: Scott Easley (Visual Designer and Professor)

Stable Diffusion, ChatGPT, DALL·E, Meshi.ai, Maya, Unity, Photoshop, even Eliza from back in the day -- what DIDN'T we talk about this episode?
This is a good one – I’m talking with Scott Easley, senior lecturer at USC's Viterbi School of Engineering, and he’s playing around at the bleeding edge of video game visual development.  OH, AND HE WORKED ON ODDWORLD! We dive into the evolution of video games, the integration of AI in game development, and the centrality of humanity in creativity. We then turn to his work as a professor, where Scott emphasizes the role of students in shaping the future of game design and the iterative process of creation. He also walks us through some of his work and techniques; here's a link to the blog post with all of the images:
https://www.creativeaipod.com/blog/scott-easley-podcast-images/
Scott is thoughtful, philosophically and technologically adept, AND he liked the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, so you’re gonna love this guy as much as I did.
*****
Takeaways
* Scott Easley has over 21 years of experience at USC.* He transitioned from the video game industry to academia.* The USC Games program combines engineering and cinema.* AI tools are evolving and impacting game development.* Students are becoming savvier with technology.* Art serves to guide the player's experience in games.* Creativity is essential in the integration of technology.* AI can inspire and assist in the creative process.* The iterative process is crucial in art and game design.* Scott encourages students to explore a wide range of artistic influences.
*****
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Scott Easley and His Journey02:33 The Evolution of Game Development and Education05:14 Embracing AI in Game Design07:53 The Impact of Technology on Creativity10:34 Navigating the Challenges of AI in Education13:05 The Future of AI and Game Development15:40 Inspiration and the Role of AI in Creativity22:58 Exploring the Creative Process in Video Game Development25:22 The Intersection of Art and Technology28:12 Utilizing AI in Character Design31:54 The Iterative Nature of Art38:19 Student Perspectives on AI in Art41:58 The Future of Art and Technology Collaboration
 
 

AI Is A Massive Unlock: Douglass McGinness (Founder of Animated Company)

Flux, Kling, Minimax, Veo 2: Douglass McGinness III, founder of Animated Company, is using them all to brilliant effect. Trust me when I say his opinions are based on getting stuff made (isn't that the heart of being creative is all about?), so when he shares his thoughts, they come from a place of experimentation, iteration, and exploration.
If you don't want to read any more text, I get it, but know this: Doug is brilliant, and if you want to make animated films, you should listen.
Okay, more summary blather:
In a really compelling conversation, Doug talks about the transformative impact of AI on the animation and VFX industries, then shares his journey from traditional animation to embracing AI tools, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with this shift. The discussion covers the evolving landscape of creative work, the hybrid model of combining traditional techniques with AI, and the future of AI in film and animation. Doug emphasizes the importance of adaptation and experimentation in leveraging AI for storytelling and creativity.
*****
Takeaways
* AI is the future of storytelling in animation.* The initial fear of AI can transform into empowerment.* Experimentation with AI tools can lead to new creative possibilities.* There is a divide in the creative community regarding AI adoption.* Clients often have misconceptions about AI's capabilities.* AI can enhance creativity rather than replace it.* The importance of a hybrid approach in using AI and traditional methods.* Personalization of content will become more prevalent with AI.* The amount of content available is overwhelming for consumers.* AI will lead to more interactive and personalized content experiences.
*****
Sound Bites
"AI is absolutely the future.""I believe it's a good thing.""The ground has suddenly shifted.""AI can do this now.""AI is a massive unlock.""It's a real divide.""AI gives us the opportunity to explore.""Everything is progress.""AI can create new things.""The amount of content is overwhelming."
*****
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI in Animation02:48 The Journey from Fear to Embracing AI06:02 The Divide in the Creative Community08:58 Client Perspectives on AI in Creative Work12:09 Experimentation and the Spirit of Play14:59 Tools for AI-Driven Creativity17:48 The Future of AI in Film and Animation
 
 
 

AI is a Catalyst to Conceptualize in New Ways: Erin Reilly

Charisma.ai, Inworld AI, Ready Player Me, Eleven Labs, RunwayML, Kyber -- this week's guest Erin Reilly, the Founding Director of the Texas Immersive Institute, is exploring the outer edge of AI tools as both a creator and a professor. Listen in to hear her talk about her iterative experimentation!
****
This week, Erin Reilly and I discuss her extensive experience with AI, particularly in the context of fandom engagement and character development. She shares insights on how AI can enhance personal connections and learning experiences through the creation of digital twins and virtual beings. The discussion also explores the future of AI in education, emphasizing the importance of creativity and the evolving role of technology in the classroom. We hit on a lot of different topics along the way: the integration of generative AI in education, the importance of accessibility and participation in creative tools, and the evolving role of AI as a catalyst for creativity. The conversation also touches on the future of AI in creation, addressing concerns about copyright and the need for a critical approach to using AI tools.
Takeaways
* Erin has over a decade of experience working with AI.* She identified eight core motivators for fan engagement.* AI can scrape social media data to analyze fandoms.* Creating characters that are fallible can enhance learning.* Digital twins can provide personalized educational experiences.* AI can serve as a personal assistant in educational settings.* The importance of social and emotional learning in AI interactions.* AI tools are rapidly evolving and impacting creative workflows.* Students are integrating AI into their creative processes from the start.* The future of education may involve AI teaching assistants.* The participation gap in access to creative tools is significant.* AI can enhance creativity rather than replace it.* Students need to experiment with AI to form informed opinions.* Accessibility to tools is crucial for equitable education.* Generative AI can be used for social impact and change.* AI tools should be critically analyzed, not just accepted at face value.* The future of creative work will involve a blend of human and AI collaboration.* Copyright issues surrounding AI-generated content need to be addressed.* Students should be encouraged to create and innovate using AI tools.
Sound Bites
"I created a character that knew it was fallible.""I think we can try getting it to be a human.""Every semester it gets better.""We call it the participation gap.""Use it for good, right?""AI is a catalyst to conceptualize in new ways.""You can't think of it that it's replacing you.""At least try it. At least experiment.""The sandbox will still be there.""Create something magical. I love it."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI and Fandom Engagement07:20 The Evolution of AI in Character Development13:49 Creating Digital Twins and Virtual Beings24:14 The Future of AI in Education and Creativity28:17 Exploring Generative AI in Education35:44 Accessibility and Participation in Creative Tools44:09 The Role of AI as a Creative Catalyst52:09 Navigating the Future of AI and Creation
Keywords
AI, fandom engagement, character development, digital twins, virtual beings, education, creativity, immersive technology, generative AI, personal assistants, Generative AI, education, accessibility, creative tools, social impact, future of AI, digital media, student engagement, creative expression, technology in art
 

The Relationship With Reality Gets Renegotiated: Inti Macdonald (Industrial Designer)

Spatial computing. Industrial design. Craftsmanship and creativity.
In this conversation, I speaks with Inti Macdonald, a recent graduate in industrial design, about the evolving landscape of design tools, particularly the integration of AI in creative processes. Inti shares his journey from traditional craftsmanship to embracing digital tools, highlighting the importance of user empathy and foundational skills. They discuss the emotional impact of AI-generated content, the potential of spatial computing, and the responsibility of creators to navigate the balance between creation and destruction in a rapidly changing world.
*****
Takeaways
* Inti Macdonald is a recent graduate in industrial design.* User empathy is crucial in the design process.* AI tools are evolving and becoming integral to design.* Foundational skills in craftsmanship enhance the use of AI.* AI can evoke emotions and enhance storytelling.* Spatial computing offers new ways to interact with design.* The relationship with reality is being renegotiated through digital tools.* Creativity will be elevated, not replaced, by AI.* Emerging technologies can help preserve the physical world.* Creators have a responsibility to balance creation and destruction.
*****
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Inti McDonald and His Journey03:07 The Evolution of Design Tools06:04 AI in Creative Processes11:45 Integrating AI with Traditional Craftsmanship15:05 The Role of AI in Artistic Expression19:55 Future of AI as Creative Collaborators23:48 Emotional Impact of AI-Generated Content29:52 Spatial Computing and Its Potential35:50 The Responsibility of Creators in a Digital Age50:11 Conclusion and Reflections on Creation and Destruction

I Have a Team of Interns: Todd Tibbetts (Artist, Designer)

Jasper, Scenario AI, Midjourney, Stable Diffusion, and DALL·E -- this week's guest, artist and animator Todd Tibbetts, uses all these tools and more, so listen in to get some insight into how these AI tools can be a part of your workflow.
*****
In this conversation, I speak with Todd Tibbetts, a professional creative and founder of Happy Awesome Studios, shares his extensive experience with artificial intelligence in the creative industry. He discusses the evolution of AI tools, their impact on creative workflows, and the balance between efficiency and originality. Todd emphasizes the importance of intent in AI-generated art and the need for authenticity in a world increasingly dominated by AI creations. In this conversation, Todd Tibbetts and Andy Baker explore the evolving landscape of creativity in the age of AI. They discuss the rapid advancements in digital tools, the importance of control and consistency in creative processes, and the potential for AI to empower creators by reducing barriers to entry. The conversation also touches on the ethical considerations of AI in creative work and the need for a balance between technology and human creativity.
*****
Takeaways
* Todd Tibbetts has been in the creative industry for over 35 years.* His first experience with AI dates back to 2008.* AI tools have evolved significantly, impacting creative workflows.* Efficiency and speed are major benefits of using AI in creative work.* Training AI models can enhance marketing and visual outputs.* The derivative nature of AI creations raises questions about originality.* Intent from the creator is crucial in AI-generated art.* Authenticity can be added back into AI art to combat perfection.* The creative industry is adapting to the rise of AI tools.* Traditional stock photography is being challenged by AI-generated images.* Control and consistency in AI-generated content are crucial for creators.* AI can enhance the creative process by providing instant feedback and iterations.* Access to technology is essential for democratizing creativity.* The influx of AI-generated content may lead to a mix of quality and mediocrity.* Creativity should focus on unique storytelling rather than just technical skills.* AI can help reduce the time from concept to execution in creative projects.* The ethical implications of AI in creativity must be considered.* The 'iron triangle' of time, quality, and cost is being challenged by AI advancements.* Embracing AI can lead to new opportunities for creative expression.
*****
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Todd Tibbets and Happy Awesome Studios02:44 Early Experiences with Artificial Intelligence05:18 The Evolution of AI Tools in Creative Work10:41 AI in Creative Workflows: Efficiency and Speed12:12 Training AI Models for Marketing and Visuals17:30 The Impact of AI on Originality and Creativity20:16 The Derivative Nature of AI Creations25:12 The Role of Intent in AI-Generated Art30:36 Navigating Perfection and Authenticity in AI Art32:55 The Future of Creative Tools39:10 The Impact of AI on Creativity46:32 Overcoming Creative Barriers52:45 Embracing AI in Creative Workflows57:57 Navigating the Iron Triangle of Creativity

The Landscape of Writing is Changing: Jesse Alexander (Screenwriter)

Perplexity, Gemini, NotebookLM, 11 Labs, LoRA, ChatGPT, Claude -- this week's guest plays with them all, so if you want to know how AI can be integrated into your writing workflow, listen to how veteran screenwriter Jesse Alexander is doing it.
*****
In this conversation, Jesse Alexander, a seasoned TV writer and video game writer, shares his insights on the integration of AI in the creative process. He discusses his journey of experimenting with AI tools, the importance of conversational interactions with AI, and how these tools can empower writers. Jesse emphasizes the need for writers to adapt to the changing landscape of the industry, where traditional pathways are evolving, and the role of visionaries remains crucial. He encourages creators to embrace the tools available to them and to focus on making their own content.
*****
Takeaways
* Jesse Alexander has a diverse background in TV writing and video games.* AI tools can significantly enhance the creative process for writers.* Experimentation with AI has led to valuable insights and discoveries.* Conversational interactions with AI can yield better results.* Choosing the right AI tool depends on the specific needs of the project.* The landscape of writing is changing, and writers must adapt.* There is a growing need for visionaries in the creative industry.* Writers should focus on creating and not worry about external opinions.* AI can provide supportive feedback that is often lacking from human critiques.* The future of writing will involve a blend of traditional skills and new technologies.
*****
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Jesse Alexander04:43 Exploring AI in the Creative Process12:01 Experimentation with AI Tools17:48 Choosing the Right AI Tool for Writers24:42 Conversational Interactions with AI30:16 The Future of Writing and AI38:04 The Role of Visionaries in the New Landscape44:42 Empowerment Through Creation

Embrace the Tools, They Are Here to Stay: Bernie Su (Writer, Director, Producer)

DeepSeek, Midjourney, Runway, Sudowrite, Claude, ChatGPT, LifeScore -- this week's guest, Emmy-winning writer and producer Bernie Su, uses them all, so if you want to know how to integrate them into your workflow, give this one a listen. In this conversation, Bernie and I discuss his innovative use of AI in storytelling, particularly through his work on the interactive series 'Artificial.' He shares insights on how AI tools are transforming the creative process, enhancing efficiency, and enabling writers to focus on their craft. Bernie also explores the implications of AI on the writing industry, the integration of various creative tools, and the importance of the artist's touch in finalizing projects. We also explore the evolving landscape of AI in creative industries and discuss the importance of streamlining workflows, the irreplaceable role of human creativity, and the empowerment that AI tools provide to independent artists. The conversation also touches on the disruption caused by AI, the democratization of creativity, and the necessity for artists to embrace change and adapt to new technologies.*****
Takeaways
* Bernie Su is an Emmy-winning writer and producer.* 'Artificial' was the first original narrative series on Twitch.* AI tools can enhance storytelling by making audience participation integral.* AI writing tools like PseudoWrite can streamline the writing process.* The creative industry is being disrupted by AI technologies.* Efficiency in creative workflows can lead to more innovative projects.* AI can help artists focus on the creative aspects rather than administrative tasks.* The last 10% of a project is often the most challenging to complete.* Using AI tools can save time and resources in production.* Artists must adapt to new technologies to remain competitive.  AI tools can streamline creative workflows significantly.* Human creativity remains essential in the artistic process.* The landscape of content creation is rapidly evolving due to AI.* Disruption from AI is inevitable and can lead to efficiency.* Independent artists have unprecedented access to powerful tools.* AI democratizes creativity, allowing more voices to be heard.* Embracing AI tools can enhance artistic expression and efficiency.* The future of content creation will require adaptation to new technologies.* AI can assist in generating content but cannot replace human touch.* The creative industry must navigate the balance between efficiency and artistry.
*****
Sound Bites
"AI tools are powerful and growing more powerful.""You can speed run a novel end to end.""The tools get you a huge percentage of the way.""AI is going to accelerate the creative process.""The tools liberate our ability to create.""You can create your own IP with AI tools.""AI democratizes creativity for everyone.""Embrace the tools, they are here to stay.""You should just forget about it and embrace it.""You are more empowered now than ever before.""You are more empowered as an independent artist."
*****
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Bernie Su and His Work02:54 Innovative Storytelling with AI in 'Artificial'05:57 The Role of AI in Creative Processes09:13 Exploring PseudoWrite: A Writer's Tool12:00 Integrating Multiple Tools in Creative Workflows15:01 The Cost of AI Tools and Their Impact17:46 Efficiency and Innovation in Creative Production20:55 The Last Mile: Finalizing Creative Projects24:13 Real-World Applications of AI in Commercial Directing28:47 Streamlining AI Workflows31:44 The Role of Human Creativity in AI34:45 The Future of Content Creation38:06 Navigating the Disruption of AI42:39 Empowerment Through AI Tools46:52 Democratizing Creativity51:35 Embracing Change in the Creative Process
 

We're Not Creating, We're Curating: Rob Dalton (Writer)

ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, Bard, LLaMA, Grok: In this premiere episode of Creative AI, we talk about them all.We begin with the brilliant and funny Rob Dalton sharing his multifaceted career as a writer, musician, and creative director, and discussing the profound impact of AI on creativity. He reflects on his initial skepticism about AI's ability to create art, recounting a pivotal moment when he realized AI could generate poetry and summaries effectively. The discussion delves into the evolving role of human creativity in an age dominated by algorithms, emphasizing the importance of emotional connection in art. Dalton expresses concerns about the future of creativity, where curation may replace creation, and the implications of trusting AI's decision-making processes, which often remain opaque. The conversation concludes with a cautionary note about the potential risks of ceding too much control to AI.
*****
Takeaways
* AI is reshaping the landscape of creativity and writing.* Emotional connection remains a vital aspect of human art.* AI can produce decent poetry, but it lacks true human insight.* The role of the creator is shifting towards curation.* AI's decision-making processes are often opaque and complex.* The future of creativity may involve more collaboration with AI.* Skepticism about AI's capabilities can evolve into acceptance.* The struggle of creation is an essential part of the artistic process.* AI is trained on a vast array of human experiences, both good and bad.* Trusting AI without understanding its processes can be risky. * Discussing AI and its implications is paramount.* Technology can diminish human agency, leading to a loss of personal initiative.* Education must adapt to prepare students for a tech-driven future.* Human connection is essential in navigating the challenges posed by AI.* Creativity can thrive even in the age of AI, but it requires conscious effort.* The relationship with technology should not replace our connection to nature and each other.* AI's rapid advancement presents both opportunities and risks for society.* Maintaining a sense of self is crucial in a world dominated by algorithms.* The future of humanity hinges on how we choose to use technology.* Hope exists in the potential for AI to enhance human creativity and connection.
*****
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Rob Dalton's Multifaceted Career03:04 The Impact of AI on Creativity06:08 AI's Role in Writing and Poetry09:01 The Future of Human Creativity in the Age of AI11:53 Curation vs. Creation: The New Creative Process14:51 Emotional Connection in Art and AI's Limitations17:56 The Complexity of AI and Its Implications21:01 Trusting the Black Box: AI's Decision-Making Process23:09 The Urgency of Conversation25:18 The Impact of Technology on Human Agency28:10 The Role of Education in a Tech-Driven World30:38 The Importance of Human Connection33:00 Navigating the AI Wave39:37 Creativity in the Age of AI44:22 Hope Amidst Uncertainty