In the language of machine learning, the term “interpolation” refers to a foundational mathematical technique used to estimate unknown values that fall between known data points. Interpolation allows filling in missing values in existing datasets, but also to create different kinds of transitions between discrete data points. 

In the context of this conference, “interpolation” indicates the intention to reflect on the relations and mutual interactions between the fields of AI, art, and art history. The conference will analyze how recent developments in the field of both analytic and generative AI have profoundly transformed the ways in which images are captured, generated, modified, seen and described, but also the way in which transformations in the fields of contemporary and visual culture have shaped the public reception of AI and the cultural imaginaries surrounding it. It will also address the question of whether traditional art-historical and media-theoretical concepts allow us to fully grasp the current, tectonic shifts, or whether new concepts and categories are needed.  

The conference is organized by the German Center for Art History Paris (DFK Paris) in collaboration with the Jeu de Paume, where the exhibition The World Through AI / Le monde selon l’IA is currently on view until 21 September 2025. It will consist of four panels: “AI and Art History,” “AI and Contemporary Art,” “AI and Photography,” and “AI and Visual Theory.” The conference will include a guided tour of the exhibition, as well as a talk with Alexander Kluge, followed by a screening of his recent AI films.

Concept: Noam M. Elcott (Columbia University, New York), Peter Geimer (DFK Paris), and Antonio Somaini (Université Sorbonne Nouvelle Paris 3)

With: Ada Ackerman (CNRS Paris), Emmanuel Alloa (University of Fribourg), Estelle Blaschke (University of Basel), Gregory Chatonsky (Paris/Montreal), Noam M. Elcott (Columbia University, New York), Peter Geimer (DFK Paris), Bernard Geoghegan (University of Basel), Leonardo Impett (Bibliotheca Hertziana, Rome/University of Cambridge), Béatrice Joyeux-Prunel (University of Geneva), Alexander Kluge (Berlin), Egor Kraft (Tokyo, Berlin, Vienna), Michelle Kuo (Museum of Modern Art, New York), Roland Meyer (University of Zurich), Andrea Pinotti (University of Milan), Noam Segal (Guggenheim Museum, New York), Antonio Somaini (Université Sorbonne Nouvelle Paris 3)