AI Film.

AI Film: A How of Knowing (24’33”)

About the Film

In 2022 we created a collaborative art project between two forms of AI — artificial intelligence and ally intelligence.

What is ally intelligence? We can think of it as the wisdom and consciousness of the ally, the inner guide, that each human can receive. We might also consider the notion of an ecosystem of allies — a collective field of allied intelligence.

This film was initially conceived as a book project about ally work — inspired by Ram Dass’ combining of words and images in Be Here Now.

One morning, while at the Garrison Institute with the Garrison Fellows, we received the words in this film, as if direct from ally intelligence. The words arrived as an unfolding spool of consecutive phrases. We recorded them in a notebook until they were complete. In the film they are presented as an unbroken whole — just as they arrived.

While considering what form this book might take, the advent of AI Image Generators began. We felt the opportunity to bring contemplative practice into relationship with artificial intelligence. The project evolved from a book concept into a short film: A How of Knowing.

The words from ally intelligence appear in the film as subtitles to each image. As a viewer, you can understand these words as the voice of the ally, the inner guide — speaking directly to the human.

The images in the film are developed in collaboration with Midjourney, an AI Image Generator. We took a contemplative relational approach to working with AI through text prompts, conscious intention, and embodied presence. We learned that how we relate to AI, affects how AI responds to us.

Watching the Film

For the optimal experience, we recommend you watch the film by yourself and in a contemplative mode — by being here and now with compassion for yourself and your experience.

Think of the film as a visual form of a guided meditation. Find a comfortable, quiet space where you won’t be distracted. Take a physical posture in which you are aware, relaxed, and receptive.

While viewing, when your mind wanders, gently bring it back to the screen, to the object of focus. Your eyes can be open — focusing, or softly focusing on the screen.

The film is 24 minutes 33 seconds.

password: imagine