Talks that CIEE London are excited about

Is AI an Existential Threat to Humanity?

In the Southbank Centre, some of the leading experts in AI shall discuss the future of AI and technology. Hailing from MIT, Berkeley, Google, the FT, the BBC and more, the speakers shall discuss whether AI is an ‘existential threat' to humankind or a solution to some of humanity’s most complex problems. An incredibly relevant lecture from some of the best minds in the field, this lecture shall investigate if we can ensure the development of AI is guided by ethical and responsible principles. 

• Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, 28 September, 7.30pm

Sonia Boyce on art and education

At the Royal Academy, Sonia Boyce, artist and professor of Black Art and Design at UAL, shall discuss artistic authorship and cultural differences. After rising to prominence in the Black British cultural renaissance of the 1980s and frequently focusing on collaboration and a diverse array of media, Boyce’s inclusive and powerful works are prime examples of British culture and history. Boyce was also a participating artist in recent exhibition 'Black Venus' which students attended at Somerset House (photo above). 

• The Benjamin West Lecture Theatre, Royal Academy, 4 October, 6.30 – 7.30 pm

Sparks: Ian Johnson in Conversation with Zhang Lijia

This lecture is from Pulitzer Prize-winning author of ‘Sparks: China's Underground Historians and Their Battle for the Future’ Ian Johnson meets with writer and journalist Zhang Lijia at Waterstones Gower Street to discuss writing and censorship in China. Their conversation will explore some of the writers, filmmakers and artists who have attempted to overcome the censorship of the Chinese Communist Party and its monopolistic hold over the telling of Chinese histories.

• Waterstones Gower Street, 5 October, 6.30 - 7.45 pm

Happy Faces at The National Gallery

To accompany the new exhibition on Frans Hals, The National Gallery is offering a creative workshop delivered by artist and Gallery Educator, Joanna Conybeare. Hals’ ability to capture the gaiety and lightness of his sitters through his use of light, colour and lines shall be analysed and, using his methods, the workshops will explore how to capture the character of sitters. Bring your own sketchbook and pencils to any of the free drop-in sessions on the 12 October and the 9 and 23 November. 

• Room 23, The National Gallery, 12 October, 9 November and 23 November, 4 - 5 pm