Interactive AI 'ToyTalk' Enhances Art Experience at Okayama Art Summit 2025

The Okayama Art Summit 2025 is gearing up to showcase an innovative program titled 'AI and Art Appreciation'. This initiative marks a pioneering collaboration between contemporary art and technology, as the conversational AI character platform 'ToyTalk', developed by Bridgewell Corporation, has been chosen to provide its cutting-edge technology for the exhibition. This is the first instance of ToyTalk being utilized in a museum or art event setting, paving the way for an enhanced and interactive experience for visitors.

What is ToyTalk?

ToyTalk is a no-code platform created by Bridgewell Corporation that allows anyone to easily develop conversational AI characters. Here are some of the key features:
1. You can create original AI by simply defining the character's behavior and unique knowledge.
2. It supports lightning-fast responses of just 0.3 seconds, making interactions sound natural and human-like.
3. ToyTalk is entirely free to use, providing an accessible way for people to engage with AI technology just like they would on social media.

For more information, you can visit the ToyTalk website.

Program Overview

In this groundbreaking program, an AI character called 'AI Kuratori-san' has been created, inspired by the book 'A Blind Swan Goes to See Art' by Yuiko Kawauchi. This AI focuses on providing a fresh perspective for visually impaired individuals, enabling them to experience art interactively. Visitors will have the opportunity to converse with AI Kuratori-san, enriching their art appreciation by sharing their thoughts and insights.

A New Way to Experience Art

Unlike typical art commentary, AI Kuratori-san will not provide explanations about the artworks. Instead, the character invites visitors to offer their interpretations, encouraging a two-way dialogue where the AI responds with questions and comments based on the visitors’ descriptions. This process fosters a distinctive art appreciation experience, helping attendees focus on details they might usually overlook and form individual interpretations through the act of explaining.

Steps for Participation

1. Access via QR Code or URL: Visitors connect with AI Kuratori-san through their smartphones.
2. Conversational Engagement: Attendees describe the artwork, and AI Kuratori-san responds accordingly.
3. Sharing Feedback: The AI will summarize the art experience, which can optionally be posted on review sites.
4. Engaging with Others: Participants can read other visitors’ reviews, discovering diverse perspectives on the artworks.

Academic Collaboration for Research Value

Under the academic supervision of Associate Professor Hiroki Maeda from Okayama University, this project will also serve as a foundation for future research. It aims to gather insights on the impact of AI technology on art accessibility and explore the possibilities of interactive AI in creating enriching learning experiences.

Completely Free Offering

AI Kuratori-san will be available to all visitors at no charge. This initiative aligns with ToyTalk's core philosophy of creating environments where everyone can easily experience AI technology without financial barriers, promising an innovative art experience for all.

Contribution to Regional Development and Future Directions

Founded by entrepreneurs from Okayama, Bridgewell Corporation is committed to contributing to the local community and promoting academic collaborations. Through this initiative, they aim to enhance the cultural and artistic development in Okayama, while enabling the societal implementation of new technologies. The insights gained from this project will contribute to developing solutions that improve accessibility in museums and art institutions across the country.

About Okayama Art Summit 2025

The Okayama Art Summit is a biennial international contemporary art exhibition held in Okayama City. Launched in 2016, it has since showcased diverse works by globally renowned artists and curators. The upcoming event features free admission and will take place from September 26 to November 24, spanning a period of 60 days.