In the artist talk Mean Images, Hito Steyerl analyses the recent trend of so-called AI art, focusing on the algorithmic process of image generation. Engaging the multiple meanings of the term “mean,” Steyerl explores how these synthesized images are both a threat and, as the statistical average of their constituent datasets, foreclosed from true creativity. Starting with the “statistical renderings” produced by programs such as DALL-E, Midjourney and Stable Diffusion, Steyerl provides a critical perspective on how these technologies function to onboard users to the technological infrastructure that provides the computational power necessary for on-demand machine learning services and speculates on the future of images as they transition from representational to statistical.

Hito Steyerl: Mean Images is co-presented by Singapore Art Museum and National Gallery Singapore.

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The Southeast Asia premiere of Hito Steyerl’s landmark video installation Factory of the Sun is now showing in Singapore Art Museum at Tanjong Pagar Distripark from 18 May to 24 September 2023.

Supported by: