MBZUAI has launched The Academy, a global platform for AI knowledge exchange, along with the world’s first AI x Arts Fellowship. The inaugural cohort of eight fellows includes artists and innovators like Refik Anadol and Amrita Sethi, who will participate in residency programs in Abu Dhabi in 2026. The Academy also encompasses the MBZUAI Executive Program (MEP), which empowers UAE leaders to leverage AI. Why it matters: This initiative signals MBZUAI's commitment to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between AI and the arts, positioning Abu Dhabi as a hub for innovative AI applications in culture and heritage.
Salim T. S. Al-Hassani from the University of Manchester presented at KAUST's 2019 Winter Enrichment Program about the contributions of Muslim civilization to science and engineering. The lecture highlighted inventions like early clocks from Muslim heritage, including Al-Jazari's elephant clock. Al-Hassani aims to address the neglect of non-European cultures' impact on humanity. Why it matters: The talk emphasizes the historical significance of Islamic contributions to science and technology, relevant for promoting STEM education and cultural awareness in the region.
Dr. Laila Nehme, a French archaeologist from CNRS, visited KAUST as part of the Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) to discuss her work on Mada’in Saleh, also known as Al-Hijr or Hegra. Nehme co-directs the Saudi-French Archaeological Project and specializes in Nabatean epigraphy, studying the daily life of the ancient Nabateans through unearthed remains. Her team, working with the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities, is beginning its third four-year program to study the site. Why it matters: The research sheds light on the historical significance of Mada’in Saleh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Nabatean civilization's southernmost settlement, enhancing our understanding of the region's rich cultural heritage.
MBZUAI and the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF) hosted the fourth edition of Mailis, focusing on AI's impact on the arts. The event, part of ADMAF’s Riwaq Al Fikr initiative, featured discussions on AI's role in music, visual art, and creative expression. A panel including MBZUAI's Gus Xia explored AI's creative potential in filmmaking and music. Why it matters: This collaboration highlights the growing interest in exploring the intersection of AI and culture in the UAE, potentially fostering new forms of artistic expression and cultural preservation.
Dr. James She from Hamad Bin Khalifa University will give a talk on AI for Art, Culture and Heritage, covering history, trends, opportunities, and potential impacts in the Gulf region. His research focuses on AI and multimedia technologies for art, media, culture, and human creativity, with recent artworks using AI for cultural or heritage content in Arabic regions. He was also a visiting artist-in-residency at Fire Station Museum, Qatar Museums in 2020-2021. Why it matters: This lecture highlights the growing interest and applications of AI in preserving and promoting cultural heritage within the Gulf region, potentially fostering innovation in art and culture.
The Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to co-curate a program involving international professors, artists, and scientists. The collaboration will focus on STEAM projects, artist residencies, and publishing research papers. The partnership was announced in conjunction with the Riwaq Al Fikr talk exploring AI's implications for the music and creative industries. Why it matters: This MoU signifies a growing trend of integrating AI with arts and culture in the UAE, potentially fostering innovation and new forms of artistic expression.
Ivan Gromicho, a scientific illustrator at KAUST, creates visual representations of complex research findings for journals like Cell, Nature, and Science. He collaborates with KAUST faculty to transform data into comprehensible illustrations. Outside of work, Gromicho pursues rock climbing, exploring natural rock formations across Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: This highlights KAUST's support for interdisciplinary pursuits and employee well-being, fostering innovation at the intersection of science and art.
Todd Nims, a filmmaker born in Saudi Arabia, premiered his film "Joud" at KAUST's 2018 Winter Enrichment Program. The film, set in Saudi Arabia, explores the cycle of life in reverse and the meaning of "Joud" (generosity in the face of scarcity). Nims describes Saudi Arabia as a "magical place" due to its rich storytelling tradition. Why it matters: The article highlights KAUST's role in showcasing cultural works and supporting Saudi artists, though the AI relevance is limited.
Lea Sublett, Manager of KAUST Alumni Affairs, developed a love for travel and diverse cultures through her upbringing. She initially pursued journalism but found herself working in alumni relations at universities, including five Australian universities before KAUST. Sublett's career has allowed her to meet alumni worldwide and learn about their experiences. Why it matters: This profile highlights the international and diverse community fostered by KAUST, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange and global engagement in its mission.
British author and explorer Alastair Humphreys visited KAUST as part of the Enrichment in the Spring program. Humphreys, known for trekking across the Empty Quarter, shared his adventures with the KAUST community. The event aimed to bring a sense of adventure to the university. Why it matters: Such events enhance the cultural and intellectual environment at KAUST, fostering a broader perspective among students and faculty.
KAUST's Discovery Week featured a gala and awards ceremony. Professor Gilles Lubineau opened the proceedings at the 2017 WEP Final Gala. A Javanese shadow puppet performance of the “Ramayana Epic” was also part of the event. Why it matters: Showcases KAUST's commitment to cultural exchange alongside its research activities.
KAUST is hosting a Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) featuring several events. These include a farmers market from January 14-16, an exploration of Asir landscapes and art with lectures and exhibitions from January 19-21, and a final gala on January 21. Why it matters: These events promote community engagement, cultural exchange, and awareness of Saudi heritage and sustainable practices at KAUST.
A photography exhibition at KAUST's 2015 Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) showcased Al-Balad in Jeddah through the lenses of Andrea Bachofen-Echt and Marina Kochetyga. The photographers captured the unique architecture of Al-Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, during multiple visits over a month. Andrea noted Al-Balad's authenticity due to limited tourism, making it a unique subject. Why it matters: This highlights the importance of preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia through art and photography.
KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2015 features keynotes by international experts and award winners. Week 2 events include Caltech's Anthony Readhead discussing radio astronomy and Saudi Arabia's potential role, and an exhibition of Tingatinga art from East Africa. Other events cover urban science, polar expeditions, and a multimedia performance called BELLA GAIA. Why it matters: WEP promotes scientific engagement and cultural exchange within KAUST and highlights opportunities for Saudi Arabia in global research fields like radio astronomy.
KAUST will host a Modern Saudi Art Exhibit from Arabian Wings (Jan 11-15), an Al-Balad 24 Photography Exhibition featuring work by Marina Kochetyga and Andrea Bachofen (Jan 11-16), and an East African Tingatinga art exhibition (Jan 18-24). The Al-Balad exhibit includes a video by Dr. Lorenzo Pareschi documenting a fire in the historic district. Why it matters: These art exhibits expose the KAUST community to diverse artistic styles and cultural perspectives, fostering cross-cultural understanding.
KAUST's Winter Enrichment Program (WEP) 2015 featured seminars, community events, guest speakers, and interactive exhibits. The program included 112 speakers from various regions and events like BELLA GAIA, a film festival, and photography exhibits. Lectures covered topics like Tingatinga painting and gold exploration in Saudi Arabia. Why it matters: Such programs foster knowledge exchange and cultural enrichment within the KAUST community and beyond.
KAUST's Theatre Troupe performed Agatha Christie's "The Mousetrap" for KAUST audiences on November 23 and 24. The play, directed by Ph.D. students Amber Siddiqui and Daniel Binham, featured KAUST students and staff. The directors were pleased with the large turnout and plan another production for the spring. Why it matters: Arts and cultural events enrich the KAUST community and provide opportunities for cross-cultural engagement.
This article discusses how AI has been portrayed in cinema, from early automatons in Metropolis to modern depictions of digital consciousness in Blade Runner and Terminator. It explores themes such as autonomy, intelligence, and responsibility. The films mentioned capture themes that still shape public imagination. Why it matters: Examining AI through the lens of cinema provides insights into societal hopes, fears, and questions about humanity's relationship with intelligent machines, influencing public perception and ethical considerations.
The article compiles a list of 10 science fiction novels featuring AI, including classics like Isaac Asimov's "I, Robot," Philip K. Dick's "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?," and Arthur C. Clarke's "2001: A Space Odyssey." Other featured works are William Gibson's "Neuromancer" and more obscure titles. The novels explore themes of ethics, humanity, and the potential dangers of advanced AI. Why it matters: Creative writing shapes public perception and explores the ethical implications of AI, influencing its development and deployment in the real world.