JS Institute of Design (JSID) recently hosted an art workshop featuring renowned Dutch artist Dadara at its Delhi campus. Organized and conducted by École Intuit Lab, the workshop, titled “I Am Not Human: Exploring Humanity in the Age of AI,” encouraged students to examine the evolving relationship between technology, artificial intelligence, and human creativity.
While talking about the theme of the workshop, Dadara remarked, “AI is rapidly copying and taking over a lot of things, but at the same time we are human as well, so my assignment was to make them think about the role of the human in this digital age.”
“Nowadays it is really important as a designer artist to realize that we live in a world where everything is technical, however one of the functions of art is that it can transcend everyday life, offering perspectives that challenge our understanding of reality. I enjoy creating projects that highlight how reality is not always what it appears to be, prompting people to question their perceptions and explore deeper meanings” he added.
Dadara, known for his large-scale interactive installations and thought-provoking public art, started his career in the early 1990s designing record covers and live paintings for the electronic dance music scene. Over time, his work expanded into experimental projects that challenge social perceptions, including installations at Burning Man and the Boom Festival 2023 visual identity. His Exchanghibition Bank project, which explores the value of money through symbolic banknotes and public interventions, is a notable example of his approach to blending art with social commentary.
Dean of JSID, Nien Siao, commented on the importance of such discussions in contemporary design education, stating, “As technology continues to redefine creative fields, it is essential for students to develop a holistic understanding of both its possibilities and limitations. Workshops like these encourage critical thinking and prepare designers and artists to navigate a digital world while maintaining a strong foundation in human-centered creativity.”
During the workshop, students engaged in discussions and hands-on activities that explored the intersection of AI and artistic expression. Dadara shared insights from his career, emphasizing the importance of creativity in a world increasingly influenced by technology. Participants experimented with both digital and traditional artistic techniques, discussing how AI can shape, challenge, or complement human imagination.
More than 10 external students attended the workshop, along with 30 students from JSID. The diverse perspectives among attendees sparked meaningful conversations about the role of technology in contemporary art and design. The event offered a rare opportunity for students to interact with an internationally recognized artist and gain exposure to new artistic approaches.
Managed by JS Institute of Design, the workshop is part of the institute’s ongoing efforts to provide students with industry-relevant learning experiences. By facilitating collaborations with global artists and designers, JSID continues to support creativity and innovation in design education.
