Movement and Virtual Intelligence for the Development and Accessibility of Artists and Audiences

ongoing

Movement and Virtual Intelligence for the Development and Accessibility of Artists and Audiences (MOVIDA) aims to explore the possibilities for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and related technologies in contemporary dance to: build capacity for artists; improve accessibility for persons with disabilities and mental health issues; while using these technologies for audience development and engagement. Recent developments in AI, particularly Virtual Intelligence, the combination of AI, Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR); and Embodied AI, the integration of AI into physical systems through robotics; provide dancers with a new world of possibilities for their artistic development. AI can assist performers and audience members with disabilities and mental health issues to adapt technology to their own individual special needs. These developments can enable novel and engaging experiences for audiences, combining dance with AI technologies including VR/AR, robotics and audience interaction – expanding and renewing the audiences for contemporary dance. MOVIDA is also concerned with the ethical and responsible applications of AI, namely regarding copyright, data ownership, job disruption and environmental impact. MOVIDA will pursue a human-centred AI approach and will contribute to reflection and discussion around responsible AI for the creative and cultural sectors in the EU, from a dance perspective. These aims will be developed in the scope of an Europe-wide cooperation in dance and digital arts. MOVIDA partners will run multiple activities to engage with artists and audiences: Labs, Residencies, Showcases, Forums, Podcasts and an online Knowledge & Tools Hub. It will involve 11 partners from 5 countries (Estonia, Germany, Portugal, Romania and Bulgaria): 5 dance centers, 4 universities and 2 institutions (associated partners) focusing on mental health and disabilities. It will involve artists from the EU and other eligible countries, particularly Ukraine.