The workshop is aimed at artists and creative practitioners interested in critically engaging with text-to-image AI systems. Using Stable Diffusion, participants will explore text-to-image prompting, model parameters, and image-making workflows. Through guided exercises and group discussion, they will reflect on questions of authorship and agency in AI-assisted image-making.
The session will introduce participants to AI as a material and critical tool through hands-on experimentation. Led by artist James Irwin, the workshop will cover examples of AI-based artistic practice, provide an accessible introduction to Stable Diffusion and text-to-image prompting, alongside an overview of key AI technical concepts and models. Participants will then take part in a guided practical exercise using Stable Diffusion, concluding with a shared reflection on process, decision-making, and the role of AI in contemporary creative practice.
This workshop will use RunDiffusion, a browser-based AI platform that includes versions of Stable Diffusion that run entirely on a remote server. There’s no need to download or install anything, and it works on any laptop - no high-end graphics card required.
By the end of the session, participants will
Gain hands-on experience using Stable Diffusion to generate images through text-based prompts.
Develop an understanding of key technical parameters and workflows of the tool
Critically reflect on the role of human and machine collaboration in AI-assisted image-making.
What do I need to bring?
A personal laptop. Before the session, please visit RunDiffusion.com, click ‘Get Started’ to create a free account, and add $5 credit. This will provide approximately 10 hours of usage.
Do I need any particular skills?
No prior experience with Stable Diffusion is required. This workshop is designed for beginners.
When:
Sat 14 Mar | 11am-1:30pm
Where
arebyte Digital Art Centre
25-27 Camden Road NW1 9LN
Price
Commercial / Industry Ticket £35
Independent Artist Ticket £20
Student Ticket £16
James Irwin
James Irwin (b. 1980) is an Artist, PhD researcher at Kingston School of Art, Associate Lecturer at UAL and Digital Media Tutor at the Royal Academy Schools. He works with web technologies, AI systems and digital sound and image to investigate the notion of a vital life force inherent within digital media.