Credit: Catherine Breslin & Team

The MUTEK AI Ecologies Lab is an interdisciplinary residency at the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), art, and ecology, bringing together artists, researchers, and technologists. This program, created by MUTEK and developed in collaboration with SAT, the Milieux Institute for Art, Culture, and Technology, the Abundant Intelligences program, and the Applied AI Institute, fosters cooperation and critical discourse around AI-driven artistic practices.

At a time when technology increasingly mediates our relationship with nature, the goal of the AI Ecologies Lab is to rethink the role of AI in creative expression with ecological awareness and explore how technological advancements can align with environmental responsibility and ethical artistic practices. In this regard, participants will co-develop tools and methodologies that will investigate a more sustainable future for digital arts.

As the innovation and technology partner, SAT will mobilize the expertise of its living lab to lead design thinking workshops for the selected projects. Additionally, its researchers, developers, and integrators will support the developments of prototypes during the hackathon that will take place at SAT on June 4, 5, and 6, 2025. SAT is proud to support an initiative that is focused on the responsible and sustainable use of AI.

Congratulations to the selected projects!

The Lab will introduce a diverse group of artists, technologists, and researchers from Quebec and Canada who have developed projects exploring sustainable and ethical alternatives for digital creation and AI. These works cover a variety of mediums, such as lichen bioindicators, XR, energy monitoring, and chatbots, while addressing themes such as AI transparency, decentralized computing, bio-inspired sensors, and sustainable digital practices.

Calendar

The AI Ecologies Lab will begin with an online component in April 2025, where participants will engage in online masterclasses, design thinking workshops, and one-on-one mentorship sessions. This will be followed by the in-person Lab from June 2-6, 2025 at Concordia University and SAT, bringing participants to Tiohtià:ke / Montréal for hands-on workshops and a hackathon-style sprint to develop prototypes of AI-driven tools. The program will culminate at the MUTEK Forum from August 20-22, 2025, where participants will showcase their work and receive feedback from a network of industry professionals.

Throughout the lab, a diverse group of mentors and experts from SAT, Climate Reality Project, Creative Green Tools Canada, Accenture Song, MILA, and Abundant Intelligences, will guide the participants, offering insights, feedback, and support to help prepare for the hands-on work ahead.

Stay tuned for our upcoming news following the advancements of the projects! 

MUTEK acknowledges the support of the Canada Council for the Arts and the City of Montreal for their support. This project is funded as part of the Cultural Development Agreement of Montreal, established between the City of Montreal and the Government of Quebec.