Jannis Maroscheck, an acclaimed designer from Germany, has devoted the past few years to exploring and experimenting with automated design processes. His latest venture, “Latent Figures,” represents a remarkable convergence of creativity, design, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Unveiling AI’s Creative Potential
“Latent Figures” stands out as more than just a conventional design book. It serves as a visual compendium, showcasing a diverse collection of visuals generated by an artificial intelligence system. This AI has been exposed exclusively to graphic shapes and symbols, spanning ancient glyphs, medieval monograms, Y2K graphics, and clipart illustrations. Through “Latent Figures,” readers gain insight into how AI interprets and reinvents these fundamental elements of design.
Building on Previous Experiments
This publication builds upon the foundation laid by Jannis Maroscheck’s earlier work, “Shape Grammars,” released three years ago. Like its predecessor, “Latent Figures” represents a continuation of Maroscheck’s exploration into generative design experiments. At its essence, the book offers a deep dive into the inner workings of an AI system developed by Maroscheck to produce an endless array of unique graphic shapes.
AI’s Unique Perspective
The AI featured in “Latent Figures” offers a fascinating perspective. Unlike humans, it has never experienced the world in the traditional sense. Devoid of encounters with sunsets, mountain ranges, bustling cities, or serene forests, its knowledge is confined to graphic shapes and symbols. Yet, despite these limitations, the AI demonstrates an ability to generate visually intricate and compelling representations.
Signs from the Unknown
Described as “signs from an unknown memory,” the visuals presented in “Latent Figures” provide an intriguing glimpse into AI’s interpretation of design elements. While many of these forms may resemble familiar objects or concepts, their true significance remains enigmatic, blurring the line between coherence and absurdity. Through “Latent Figures,” Maroscheck invites readers to embark on a captivating exploration of AI’s creative potential in the realm of design.
