Grit Wolany

Insecta ex machina (2024),
Grit Wolany

Exploring the Possibilities of Novel Fusions

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of our daily lives, unlocking new dimensions of creativity—not only in commercial design but also in the arts.

The project Insecta Ex Machina harnesses generative AI technologies
to create exploratory workflows and innovative fusions between disparate worlds—specifically, the intricate realm of insects and the rich legacy of Swiss design. This unexpected connection transcends existing boundaries and reveals new perspectives through the power of AI.

Developed over a span of more than two years, this project began as a
curiosity-driven exploration of AI-generated abstract imagery. It evolved into a deep dive into the world of insects and, later, the synthesis of these discoveries with the heritage of Swiss design.

As AI tools advanced, particularly with the significant strides in video
generation in 2024, Insecta Ex Machina evolved into an experimental video artwork that bridges these creative domains.

January 2023: development of the abstract backgrounds with Gen AI diffusion models

February 2024: exploration of new insect species with Gen AI diffusion models

September 2024: Adapting the format to 16:9 and initial experiments with AI video and AI sound

About
Grit Wolany is a freelance art director and the AI scout at the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK). Her fascination with AI began during her master’s degree at ZHdK and has since evolved into a passion for exploring the artistic potential of generative algorithms.

Her work focuses on visual exploration and the innovative, unexpected applications of AI technologies, bridging design research with experimental artistic practices.

Web: gritwolany.com
Insta: @gritney