In a twofold project by Giuseppe Santangeli, titled "The world we created," he presents audiences with a provocative reflection on the possible future that has been shaped by humanity's actions and technological advancements.
In his project, the dire consequences of climate change are explored with the intention of reminding how humanity's relentless exploitation of natural resources, the unchecked production of harmful goods, and the growing mountains of waste affect the future. These factors, Santangeli suggests, are the catalysts for escalating conflicts, deepening social inequalities, widespread pollution, hunger, and worse of all: death.
Through his series of AI-generated images, the project shows how the transformation inflicted upon the planet could be significant, highlighted by the gravity of human footprints on the environment. The photographs present various visions of a world where destruction of the ecosystem, destruction of cities, and desolation of war among others is not just a distant threat but a reality coming to realisation soon. It is one where nature has been pushed to its breaking point, as the photographs depict the devastation of the world reminding viewers of the potential consequences of actions not addressed with urgency.
Yet, his works do not purely inform on the environmental issues at hand, but the additional aspect in reflecting on artificial intelligence and its growing influences. As AI evolves in a continuous state, the power to generate images and narratives that blur the line between truth and fiction may exist to disrupt human decisions. While remarkable, this technology raises a profound question about the future of information and trust. In a world where AI can create convincing and possible realities, the distinction between what is real and what is artificial becomes increasingly uncertain.
"The world we created" not only addresses the urgent environmental challenges caused by human behaviour but also raises important ethical concerns about technological advancements. The project reflects a possible future where the consequences of climate change and the manipulation of reality by AI converge, offering a thought-provoking and visually compelling commentary on the world humanity may soon inherit.
Entry Title: The world we created
Photographer: Giuseppe Santangeli
Winning Category: Special Category - AI-Generated Images (New)
Read about the ÄSCHER by Eric von Schulthess here.