Hagenberg/Linz, November 2025 – Ars Electronica and RISC Software GmbH have successfully collaborated on an AI workshop for artists in Johannesburg, South Africa. As part of the S+T+ARTS Africa initiative, the week-long “AI Bootcamp for Artists” took place, where European technology expertise met African artistic creation to drive digital innovation at the intersection of art and technology.
As one of Austria’s leading non-university research institutions, RISC Software GmbH provided two experts to share their extensive experience in the fields of artificial intelligence, machine learning and deep learning in the hands-on sessions of the workshop. Complementing this technical expertise, Ars Electronica provided valuable insights into the intersection of art and technology, allowing participants to benefit directly from extensive expertise and real-world case studies.
The program introduced participants to AI through a balanced mix of theoretical principles and practical exercises. The curriculum focused on machine learning for artists, emphasizing specific technologies such as neural networks for image processing. Participants engaged directly with advanced frameworks, including the Transformers library and ComfyUI, and also explored multimodal models for generative synthesis of images and music.
The primary goal was to empower creatives to use Python programming skills directly to create their own digital artworks and equip them with the AI technologies necessary for their professional practice – ultimately redefining the boundaries between technology and artistic expression.
“The combination of art and technology holds enormous potential for innovation. Our aim was to share tools and perspectives with African artists to help them drive digital innovation in their respective contexts.” explains Veronika Liebl, Managing Director Ars Electronica Festival. “The participants’ creativity and practical questions – embedded in an extremely dynamic local scene – made the workshop a complete success.”
The “AI Bootcamp for Artists” is part of the broader S+T+ARTS Africa program, which is supported by a grant from the European Commission (DG CNECT). The initiative aims to strengthen cooperation between European and African players at the interface of science, technology and the arts (STARTS).
The successful implementation of the boot camp is the prelude to planned follow-up activities, including a call for the selection of 10 to 15 African cultural and creative professionals to realize smaller AI projects together with partner organizations.
About RISC Software GmbH: RISC Software GmbH, based in Hagenberg, Austria, is one of Austria’s leading non-university research companies. The company develops and implements modern solutions with a focus on artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics and simulation for customers from industry and research.
About Ars Electronica: Ars Electronica is a platform for digital art, technology and society based in Linz, Austria. It is internationally known for its annual festival, the Prix Ars Electronica and the Ars Electronica Center. Ars Electronica is a central partner in European innovation and cultural projects.
© Ars Electronica & RISC Software for S+T+ARTS Africa, Reprint free of charge
Marketing and Communications Manager
