Synthetic Language: Working with Large Language Models
In-person at InterAccess - Register Here!
Large language models are rightly getting a lot of attention at the moment with the launch of ChatGPT and anticipation around GPT-4. We are also seeing a backlash against digital images generated from natural language prompts, particularly as these models are trained on the works of others without their consent or acknowledgement.
This workshop will support creators across disciplines to understand the potential applications of synthetic language in their practice, the concerns emerging from such uses, and potential approaches to doing interesting things.
Session 1:
Participants will experience and explore a GPT-3 driven performance work created by UKAI Projects in collaboration with STO Union and presented in Berlin at the Hebbel am Ufer and in Wakefield, PQ in 2022.
From there, we will offer a broad outline of how synthetic language is being used elsewhere, with an eye to the possibilities going forward.
Session 2:
In the second session, participants will bring outlines and sketches for possible explorations and work with fellow participants and UKAI's team to imagine a home in the world for the work while receiving and giving feedback, potential technical directions, and avenues to collaboration.
Upon completion of this workshop, participants will have a broad understanding of the implications of synthetic language and an outline of a project appropriate to the participants' practice and creative direction.
About the Instructor
UKAI Projects produces culture for what's coming.
Culture is our collective inheritance. It's where we go for answers to existing problems and new ones as they arise. Our culture today is increasingly focused on a narrow set of priorities around efficiency and scale.
Our focus:
Polyphony: we bring together multiple ways of understanding the world in conversation with each other - to avoid polarization and the reduction of issues to 'sides'
Transvaluation - substituting new values into existing systems and technologies to shift why they do what they do - e.g. prioritizing generosity over efficiency, compassion over growth
Prefiguration - organizing our relationships to reflect the future we are trying to build - we cannot be free in the future if we are not free in building that future
UKAI supports a diverse and resilient culture so that our society can continue to draw on a rich mix of solutions for today and for future generations.=
Workshop Prerequisites
- A Laptop with Windows or Mac OS (newer versions preferred)
Interested participants without access to this equipment may email education@interaccess.org to inquire about renting equipment provided by InterAccess. Access to equipment is provided on a first-come-first-serve basis and is not guaranteed.
Please make sure to prepare and test out this setup well before the workshop. If you run into any issues with installing or using this software, contact education@interaccess.org for troubleshooting advice.
Questions? If you have any questions about the workshop or special requirements, please contact us at education@interaccess.org.
Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy: We are unable to accommodate attendee cancellations or refunds less than 1 week prior to a workshop or event. InterAccess reserves the right to cancel or reschedule this workshop if necessary.
Cover image courtesy of UKAI Projects