Paper short abstract:

This paper describes the methods for creating the multimedia art project Pelican Stairs, using this case study to discuss ramifications for the commodification of machine learning tools for artists in light of prior innovations for creatives like pre-stretched canvases, desktop photo editing, etc.

Paper long abstract:

Digital innovations such as desktop word processing, photo and video editing opened up new technology-assisted creative possibilities for those without specialist training in design, publishing, photography and film. Spreadsheets created new informational management capabilities for people who previously wouldn't have worked with domain-specific tabular data like accountancy worksheets. Similarly, tools like RunwayML, an online graphical-interface platform for machine learning tools like video editing and text generation, open up machine learning techniques like StyleGAN to those without data science skills, offering a new wave of creative exploration. This paper describes the methods for creating the multimedia AI-assisted pandemic memoir Pelican Stairs and discusses further ramifications for the commodification of machine learning tools for artists.