Astrid Visser – AI in Art Education: Enhancing Creativity and Innovation
As technology increasingly integrates into every aspect of our lives, the field of art is on the brink of a significant transformation. This talk will explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can become an ally in the creative process, offering fresh perspectives and novel methods for idea generation and development in visual arts and design. We will tackle common concerns about AI’s role in the arts, including authenticity, cultural appropriation, and assessment. We will discuss potential futures for the visual arts, and how AI can complement and enhance human creativity rather than replace it. Stretch your skepticism and consider how AI tools could broaden divergent thinking, enhance artistic workflows, and inspire students to explore and develop their ideas in innovative ways. Led by artist, designer, and former art teacher Astrid Visser, this session will provide practical insights into integrating AI as a dynamic partner in artistic creation and innovation, equipping educators in Aotearoa with the knowledge to embrace contemporary tools and cultivate a futures ready and industry aligned approach to contemporary making in their classrooms.
Biography
Astrid Visser is an artist, designer, and education consultant based in Te Whanganui-a-Tara. With a diverse practice that blends physical and digital media, Astrid harnesses the transformative potential of AI to push creative boundaries. Her extensive background includes over a decade of teaching Visual Arts, Design, Photography, and Painting in secondary schools throughout Aotearoa. An early advocate for moving image portfolios, she has delivered national professional development to support teachers in adopting new technologies.
Astrid’s expertise has extended beyond the classroom through her roles with Toi Rauwhārangi at Massey University’s College of Creative Arts and the Toi Mai Workforce Development Council. She led industry engagement across the Creative, Media, Game, and Design sectors at Toi Mai, and contributed to the development of future-focused qualifications. Astrid’s deep understanding of career pathways in the creative industries, coupled with her dedication to advancing creative education, underscores her commitment to ensuring Aotearoa remains a global leader in innovation and artistic excellence.