In recent years, artificial intelligence(AI) research has made significant advancements. However, there are still many elements that remain lacking, such as autonomy, embodiment, evolvability, and sustainability. These are characteristics typically seen in life. Takashi Ikegami lab at the University of Tokyo researches on artificial life(ALife) from this perspective. ALife is a field that studies the principles of all life phenomena aiming to redefine life by creating it in computational systems.

In this lunchtime talk, ALife researchers Itsuki Doi (Senior Researcher at Alternative Machine, Inc.) and Takahide Yoshida (PhD student) will present their latest scientific research and art projects utilizing Alife. One of the key projects is the humanoid robot Alter3, which has been under development since 2016. By combining Alter3 with large language models (LLMs), Alter3 can autonomously perform a diverse range of actions. Additionally, they will present an art project conducted at Alternative Machine Inc. One of the company’s aims is to implement the autonomy and evolvability important in artificial life research into society. Here they will share artworks and prototype products they have created based on this idea. These projects are examples of R&D through a loop between art and science. Through such practices that trace the connections between art and science, we propose new possibilities for symbiosis between humans and AI, as well as new forms of life.

Join us online on YouTube Live, or in the building on Friday 20th September 2024 at 1pm for the talk and to take part in the Q and A discussion afterwards. 

The Pervasive Media Studio is a partnership between the Watershed, University of the West of England and University of Bristol. The lunchtime talks are partly supported by MyWorld, a project led by the University of Bristol to support creative industries in the region. Watershed is supported by Arts Council England.

Address:
Watershed, 1 Canon's Rd, Bristol BS1 5TX

Directions:
The Lunchtime talks take place in the Pervasive Media Studio Event Space. To access the Studio, please go to the Main Watershed Box Office entrance and go upstairs to the Café Bar. Walk across the cafe bar, turn right and walk towards the double doors. Go through into the corridor and walk all the way down until you reach the Studio. A member of staff will sign you in, and check your ticket, if you have booked.

The Studio is wheelchair accessible, and the events space has a hearing loop. The last talk of every month is BSL interpreted. 

For more information on accessing the studio take a look here.

*Please note this is a hybrid event and will be live streamed so please be aware you will be in the live broadcast and recording when watching in the Studio.