Beneath the term 'artificial intelligence' lies a paradox. On one hand, 'artificial' invokes ideas of something fake and unnatural. A contrast to the lofty ideals of 'intelligence'—truth, knowledge and the power to shape our world. Can this oxymoronic union be anything but a distortion? This puzzle underpins our spring 2025 exhibition.
Lifelike AI-generated images, from the Pope wearing Balenciaga to Taylor Swift in explicit scenes, have spread virally online, threatening society's ability to separate fact from fiction. Yet it's this very tension—of apprehension and awe, disgust and attraction, worry and comfort—that fascinates us about AI.
From Doha to Damascus, AI-backed tools are revolutionizing journalism, augmenting the creation, distribution and consumption of media. However, the motives behind AI's use remain contentious, with concerns about deception, undermining public trust and perpetuating societal divisions.
An inquiry into AI for investigative journalism, and journalists investigating AI, is needed now more than ever. We will uncover everyday misconceptions, consider unforeseen impacts, and envision a future where AI strengthens journalism and serves the greater good.
Through evidence-based storytelling, data visualization, case studies and artistic interpretations, the exhibition explores four key themes: Hindsight, Insight, Oversight and Foresight. Visitors will embark on a reflective journey into the past, discover the transformative power of AI, examine the ethical implications of its global influence and imagine a future where these technologies strengthen media while upholding core values.
Join us and delve into the heart of a technology poised to redefine our perception of reality.
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Program credits
Jack Thomas Taylor
Jack Thomas Taylor (b. 1991, United Kingdom) joined the Media Majlis Museum in 2017 as one of the founding curators and has worked extensively across multiple areas of the organization since its inception. Since 2009, he has held various positions in the arts, culture, and creative domains in Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai, and Qatar across exhibitions, branding, visual arts, programming, and publishing. Taylor has consulted a variety of organizations on cultural and creative strategy and contributed to notable projects including the countrywide experience for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™. As an experienced curator and producer of ideas, he has worked in diverse and Agile work environments, managing exhibitions and media products from concept through to delivery. Taylor has wide-ranging experience in creative services, including with BOND Creative Agency as a studio manager, strategist, and producer (Abu Dhabi) and as an independent consultant with brand experience agency Imagination. In addition, he has held editorial positions at Alef (which he founded in 2014) and Brownbook. Taylor has also written for the likes of Canvas, Harper’s Bazaar, LS:N Global, Sotheby’s, Time Out, and Vision. In 2023, Taylor became a founding board member of the inaugural International Council of Museums (ICOM) national committee in Qatar.