Abstract

Developing advanced semantic models is important in building computational systems that can not only understand language but also convey ideas and concepts to others. Semantic models can allow a creative image-producing-agent to autonomously produce artifacts that communicate an intended meaning. This notion of communicating meaning through art is often considered a necessary part of eliciting an aesthetic experience in the viewer and can thus enhance the (perceived) creativity of the agent. Computational creativity, a subfield of artificial intelligence, deals with designing computational systems and algorithms that either automatically create original and functional products, or that augment the ability of humans to do so. We present work on DARCI (Digital ARtist Communicating Intention), a system designed to autonomously produce original images that convey meaning. In order for DARCI to automatically express meaning through the art it creates, it must have its own semantic model that is perceptually grounded with visual capabilities.The work presented here focuses on designing, building, and incorporating advanced semantic and perceptual models into the DARCI system. These semantic models give DARCI a better understanding of the world and enable it to be more autonomous, to better evaluate its own artifacts, and to create artifacts with intention. Through designing, implementing, and studying DARCI, we have developed evaluation methods, models, frameworks, and theories related to the creative process that can be generalized to other domains outside of visual art. Our work on DARCI has even influenced the visual art community through several collaborative efforts, art galleries, and exhibits. We show that the DARCI system is successful at autonomously producing original art that is meaningful to human viewers. We also discuss insights that our efforts have contributed to the field of computational creativity.

Degree

PhD

College and Department

Physical and Mathematical Sciences; Computer Science

Rights

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