BIMM University launches AI_Labs to pioneer innovation in creative industries
BIMM University is excited to unveil a ground-breaking initiative at the intersection of technology and creativity – BIMM University AI_Labs. With an unwavering commitment to staying at the forefront of educational innovation, BIMM University is establishing AI_Labs to delve into the fast-evolving world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its profound implications for the Creative Industries.
The advent of AI has sparked transformative changes across various sectors, and the Creative Industries are no exception. Recognising the immense potential that AI holds for reshaping music, design, film, gaming, and other creative domains, BIMM University is taking a proactive step towards harnessing this potential whilst also understanding the legal and ethical implications of the profound changes that we will see.
The primary aim of the BIMM University AI_Labs is to be a hub of research, exploration, and advancement in applying AI within the Creative Industries. Through rigorous study, experimentation, and collaboration with industry experts, the university intends to unlock new avenues of creativity, efficiency, and expression.
“Our mission is clear,” states David Jones-Owen, CEO and Vice Chancellor of BIMM University. “We want to comprehensively understand the profound impact AI is having on the Creative Industries and, by extension, our academic institution. It is imperative that our students and lecturers are well-prepared for the AI-driven future and that our university’s operational strategies are optimised to embrace this transformative wave.”
In this pursuit of knowledge and innovation, BIMM University AI_Labs is thrilled to announce a significant addition to its team. Warren Barkley, a distinguished figure in the AI landscape and Director at Google, will be joining BIMM University as a visiting faculty. With a wealth of experience and insights garnered from years of spearheading AI initiatives, Barkley’s involvement is poised to elevate the labs’ endeavours.
Barkley comments, “The synergy between AI and the Creative Industries is undeniable. From enhancing music composition to revolutionizing visual arts, the application of machine learning to creative industries opens a new world for artists of all types. I am honoured to be part of BIMM University’s visionary approach in preparing the next generation of creatives to harness the power of AI while preserving the authenticity of their art.”
The creation of BIMM University AI_Labs marks a significant leap forward in fostering a symbiotic relationship between technology and artistic expression. By creating a space where innovation thrives and where technology seamlessly integrates with the arts, BIMM University reaffirms its commitment to providing a holistic education that equips students with the skills they need to succeed in an evolving world.
As the AI landscape continues to evolve, BIMM University stands firm in its dedication to nurturing creative talents who can navigate the dynamic interplay between art, technology, and innovation.
About Warren Barkley
Warren Barkley leads the AI platform team for Google Cloud. Before joining Google, he led the AI teams at Amazon and Microsoft in executive positions, developing over a dozen AI products and services. Warren has over 65 patents, advanced degrees from multiple Universities, and resides in Seattle, USA. He began his professional career as a musician playing in symphonies, orchestra pits and the occasional small live venue.
After completing a second degree in education, he transitioned from a full-time musician to a public school teacher. Always deeply interested in technology, he spent summers studying computer science which led to joining a technology start-up and then to Microsoft.
At Microsoft, he led several businesses and was heavily involved in the creation of wireless technology, which became Wi-Fi. In 2012 Warren was appointed CTO of SMART Technology Inc., an EdTech NASDAQ listed company, where he spearheaded a re-designed engineering team of his making, developing several award-winning products, including reinventing the smartboard and a new app-based cloud learning platform for any device.
