Recent years have been characterized by a strong concentration of IT platforms and an almost total monopoly on large-scale computing infrastructures. Flagship image-generation software products such as Dall-e or Adobe Firefly are a case in point. However, the hard work of communities of developers, enthusiasts and activists has created a nascent alternative made up of disparate software, hardware resources, documentation, forums and counter-lobbies.

While, for a long time, the inspection of cutting-edge AI models required the authorization of software giants under restrictive conditions, the situation is changing as the alliance between a large number of smaller players has reached a critical threshold. The Stable Diffusion ecosystem is a paradigmatic example.

In this session, Nicolas Malevé* will explore the various agents, software, interfaces, datasets and legal frameworks that support Stable Diffusion, as well as the communities involved in the project. Through several small experiments, we’ll test together how scripts, templates and interfaces can help play with and transform the image generation pipeline.

* Nicolas Malevé is a visual artist, computer programmer and data activist and also member of Constant.

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Every 2nd Monday of the month, these critical reflection encounters propose to address topics related to the digital (e.g. algorithms, surveillance capitalism, ecological impacts, etc.) and to explore alternative ways of doing things (discovery of free and ethical tools, de-gluing of smartphones, protection of communications, etc.).

These evenings take place in two parts: at 6:30 pm, there is a presentation followed by a discussion or a thematic workshop. Don’t hesitate to send your suggestions at: info@ateliers-dk.be
The presentations are held in French.
Please note: this venue is not fully accessible to people with reduced mobility. If this applies to you, please contact Tactic beforehand.

These meetings are organised by Neutrinet and Constant’s partner, Tactic.