Aware of hidden agendas, people no longer believe in the possibility of absolute truth or complete transparency from institutions, public figures, and individuals. Yet they are still drawn to honesty, integrity, and – at times – even vulnerability, which they expect from peers and brands alike.

Stable Diffusion is the latest open-source AI image generator signalling a growing appetite for new kinds of tech-enabled creativity. Offering brands exciting avenues for innovative communications, it also necessitates intentional mitigation against misinformation and technological biases.

Google’s ‘pocket gallery’, which once allowed AR-compatible devices to view artworks, has now expanded to allow all internet users to get access to exclusive and often too fragile pieces to see in real life. The move exemplifies how digital spaces can improve access to culture.

Limewire began life as a subversive platform that allowed people to illegally download their favorite songs. While digital rights and piracy laws caught up with its original iteration, the rise of streaming services and surging creator power have paved the way for an NFT-focused revival.

From sci-fi-inspired touch screens to the rise of algorithmic art, artistic thought plays a greater role in creating the future than might first be apparent. Canvas8 spoke to cultural researcher and author Alex Quicho about the role creative discipline plays within pop culture and innovation.