When we ask AI to create an image, we often think we are getting a neutral reflection of our ideas. But beneath the surface, AI tools carry “Invisible Architects”, hidden biases and data-driven defaults that decide what "history," "freedom," or "culture" should look like. To achieve
a clearer view of the AI landscape, we need a new visual vocabulary that allows us to see and discuss what the machine is doing.
In the first 20 minutes of this session, I will share a powerful visual story: the contrast between two AI-generated images of decolonialization. We will look at how the "default" AI gaze often produces images of struggle and physical upheaval, and how we can disrupt that code to generate images of intellectual joy and celebration. Using my unique lens as a Black woman educator and researcher, I will demonstrate how our personal "voice" is the most important tool we have when navigating the black box of technology.
As a
Campfire Session, the focus will then shift to the room. This is a space for all participants to share their own "Aha!" moments and challenges with AI. Together, we will facilitate a dialogue about:
- Whose gaze is dominant? Identifying common stereotypes AI defaults to.
- What is missing? Noticing the cultural silences in AI outputs.
- How do we "write back"? Using our own professional expertise to demand better, more diverse representations.
Whether you are a creator or an educator, this session will help you move from being a passive user to a critical auditor of the digital world. Let’s gather around the campfire to co-construct a clearer path toward visual equity in the age of AI.
