Key takeaways

This is some text inside of a div block.

In a world where the realms of art and technology intersect, Josie Williams, a multimedia creative technologist, is pushing the boundaries of innovation. Williams' focus on web-based projects and web VR is driven by a vision of accessibility, aiming to establish a new standard where art is not confined to traditional galleries and museums, spaces that often lack diversity.

Josie's work aligns seamlessly with EY's mission to create a better working world by placing humans at the core of their endeavors. Together, they are forging a path to democratize art experiences, making them available to a wider audience through the expansive reach of the internet.

One of Josie's groundbreaking projects, "Ancestral Archives," poses a profound question: What happens when black thought becomes the primary reference for AI to understand itself and the world? This exploration takes us on a journey into the archives of black thought, utilizing data sets, passive observations of AI bots in dialogue, and active interactions with these bots. The project seeks to infuse black femme-skewing and queer-skewed narratives into the emerging metaverse narrative.

Josie's work goes beyond mere preservation of the past; it reintroduces and recontextualizes the contributions of past leaders and innovators, connecting them with future generations of critical thinkers, activists, and thought leaders. Icons like James Baldwin, Zora Neale Hurston, Audrey Lord, and Octavia Butler take center stage in this transformative storytelling.

In parallel, EY's Metaverse Lab is making waves in the convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Metaverse. Embracing diverse insights, the lab addresses challenges related to avatars, sensory perception, and Web 3.0 features, catalyzing transformative change in the virtual realm.

This creative movement transcends the boundaries of art; it is about reshaping the future. When art converges with a business context, everyone stands to gain. The potential of AI and the Metaverse to reshape the world is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Kudos to Domhnaill Hernon for spearheading the EY Artist-in-Residence program, and the entire team, including Danielle McPhatter, Ethan M. Edwards, Joseph Bradascio, Steve Dalton, and Melissa Valentine, for bringing these innovative visions to life.

In a world where creativity and technology converge, Josie Williams and EY's Metaverse Lab stand at the forefront of change. Their work serves as a testament to the power of innovation, diversity, and the boundless possibilities of the Metaverse.

Prepare to be inspired and join the movement!

Rrahul Sethi
June 3, 2024
5 min read