AI for Good stories

Celebrating 160 years of technological innovation with AI art

As the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) marks its 160th anniversary, AI for Good is thrilled to announce that the second edition of the Canvas of the Future contest has been launched. This competition invites artists and AI enthusiasts to showcase diverse perspectives on how technology can impact digital connectivity, bridge divides, and connect the world.

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Polina Nash

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As the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) marks its 160th anniversary, AI for Good is thrilled to announce that the second edition of the Canvas of the Future contest has been launched. This competition invites artists and AI enthusiasts to showcase diverse perspectives on how technology can impact digital connectivity, bridge divides, and connect the world. Participants are encouraged to submit one original, high resolution AI image that is international or universal in character and of relevance to the fields of activity of the United Nations.

Apply now! Deadline to submit is 15 May. 

The contest will culminate at the AI for Good Global Summit 2025, scheduled for July 8-11 in Geneva. The winner will receive several prestigious rewards: 

  • An exclusive invitation to attend and showcase their artwork at the AI for Good Global Summit 2025. 
  • The Canvas of the Future trophy, symbolizing their contribution to the intersection of technology and artistic expression. 
  • Recognition from an assembly of global leaders in AI, technology, and sustainability, which can significantly enhance their professional and artistic profiles. 

This contest is a global platform for artists to express their visions of the future through the lens of AI technology. By pushing the boundaries of what is possible in art, participants will contribute to a broader dialogue about the role of technology in society. As we look forward to the innovative artworks that will emerge from this contest, the fusion of AI and artistic creativity holds the key to unlocking new ways of understanding and shaping the world around us.  

Last year, during the Canvas of the Future Award Ceremony members of the contest judging panel, including LJ Rich, Frederic Werner, Amir Banifatemi, and Alessandra Sala convened for a fruitful discussion on topics such as the cultural, societal, and ethical implications of the widespread adoption of AI in creative fields, the opportunities of watermarking in an era of deep fakes, and more. The panelists provided insight into their unique perspectives and outlooks on the new realms of creative possibility that have been opened with AI. Inventor, musician and international broadcaster LJ Rich shared: 

“I have this sense that there is a symphony in all of us and the potential of AI to release the symphony that’s inside each of our minds. How beautiful would it be for the musicians of the world to hear the songs inside everybody’s heads? I’m a big fan of allowing creativity to flourish, and if AI tools can help us do that, and we can do it responsibly, then we’re on the path for an amazing future together.” Watch the full Award Ceremony here 

Canvas of the Future is a channel for individuals to embrace their creativity and contribute to shaping global perspectives on how technology can foster a more connected and inclusive world. 

Discover the 2024 edition where among nearly 100 entries from 37 countries, Baris Gencel’s work stood out. Based in Shanghai, Gencel, was awarded for his poignant and visually striking piece titled “Faces of Extinction of Species: Our Faces, Their Faces.” Read more 

Lori Rodney, Global Head of Communications at Shutterstock and Canvas of the Future 2024 winner Baris Gencel at the AI for Good Global Summit 2024 

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