How One Artist Merged Man and Machine Tech venture capitalist, artist and self-titled “fusioneer” Paul Kirby explores new processes for human creativity
Loveland, Colo.
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December 02, 2021 09:13 AM Eastern Standard Time
Nestled in Loveland, Colorado, is artist Paul Kirby’s studio. Inside that studio stands a 10-foot by 10-foot AI-powered robot named Dulcinea, capable of producing masterful paintings with exquisite brushwork in the manner of the Renaissance virtuosos. Kirby created Dulcinea, named after a character in Don Quixote, as his partner, muse and medium — a delicate dance between man and machine.
Unlike other efforts to recreate art with artificial intelligence, Kirby didn’t design Dulcinea to think like a human being. He designed her to paint like a human being, relying on both his artistic skills and his coding prowess in a process he calls “fusioneering,” the pursuit of a single vision while combining multiple passions or interests.
“My mission was to combine my expertise and passion for technology, science and invention, with my love of art and aesthetics,” said Kirby.
Now Dulcinea has a different mission.
In hopes to inspire others, Kirby produced a film documenting Dulcinea’s creation and his 40-year journey to embody fusioneering. Entitled “Brushstroke,” the short documentary film chronicles the pain and passion that fueled him, his work, and Dulcinea’s creation. In his story, we realize that art and science can become one, that our disparate strengths can all work together and that a steadfast commitment to our dreams will make them a reality —no matter how unconventional.
"While I remain passionate about creating in collaboration with Dulcinea," he says, "my focus for the work has changed. She stands as a role model now, the manifestation that anyone can carve out a unique path for themselves by cultivating and combining their strengths and passions.”
The film has been included in both the Vail Film Festival and the Portland Film Festival, with more appearances scheduled for early 2022. Viewers can also watch “Brushstroke” by visiting Kirby’s website: www.thefusioneer.com.
The Kirby Foundation
Guided by the belief that all of us can fuse our interests, skills and passions into a unique vision of innovation and purpose, The Kirby Foundation inspires others through the example of its founder Paul Kirby. He was the first "fusioneer," combining his interest in science, technology, and art to create Dulcinea, a 10-foot by 10-foot, AI-powered, painting robot. Unlike efforts to recreate art with artificial intelligence, Dulcinea — using paints, brushes and canvas — creates singular masterpieces based on Kirby’s vision, artistry and coding skills. Today the foundation’s vision is to encourage and empower all to become "fusioneers" and pursue their dreams. Learn more about Kirby's vision and the work of the foundation at www.thefusioneer.com.
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