In the latest episode of Approximately Correct, we’re meeting at the intersection of AI, art, creativity, and social connection with Kate Compton. Kate is an expert in generative AI, an artist, and a self-described “weird futurist.” She’s long been fascinated by creativity, and how people use digital tools to express themselves — from her early days on procedural planet generation for the video game Spore, to creating the generative tool Tracery to allow people to make playful Twitter bots. 

She’s interested in the small, everyday acts of creation that she calls “casual creativity.”

"A lot of academics will study creativity, and they'll be like, how do you make the next Mozart? How do you make the next Steve Jobs?” she says.

“I'm really interested in the small, everyday creativity.  It's not that you're making the biggest, best thing, but you're enjoying making it."

She argues that in recent years, generative AI has been dominated by large, often-closed systems controlled by large organizations. But it wasn’t always like that. Early AI systems were smaller and more open, allowing a culture of weird, creative projects passed among friends and tight-knit communities. These creations were shared, remixed, and shared again, encouraging the strange and original. 

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While the landscape has changed, keeping that plucky, personal remix culture alive is important, according to Kate. As is remembering the social aspect of creativity.  She says she’s not interested in the discussion of “if AI can be creative,” because AI lacks what she thinks is the most important part of art: social connection.

Creativity is a great thing socially; it is a great thing for us to feel,” she says.

“Don't pick a weird thing that you're going to make. Pick a person and then figure out what you would use to send the strangest love letter to them.”

Check out the full episode to hear more from Kate on what makes digital creative tools feel satisfying, and how AI has impacted the process of casual creativity.

Approximately Correct: An AI Podcast from Amii is hosted by Alona Fyshe and Scott Lilwall. It is produced by Lynda Vang, with video production by Chris Onciul. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.