something new

Welcome to the first installment of People Over Pixels, a monthly newsletter where every edition reads like a note from your friendly digital anthropologist who thinks too much about the design and culture of technology. I know your time is valuable, so I’ll keep these newsletters short, spicy, and sometimes sweet.

Why a newsletter?

My intention is to stay connected with folks who, while we may not work in the same industry or live in the same neighborhood, feel that technology is a powerful tool for human connection and discussion. I’d love to keep this interactive, so please reply or comment with topics you’d like me to write about.

Why should I listen to you?

If you’re reading this first edition, you are likely someone I know from outside the internet and are subscribing as a favor - thank you! But, to all you other internet friends, I have spent a few years writing a fair share about AI use cases and AI ethics while designing a conversational AI product for an international company. In the last year, I have explored mediums apart from writing such as coding, linguistics, content creation, and the art of DJing, all of which have colored a fresh perspective on how to use modern technology. Now, it’s time to write again.

What’s with the name?

I’m an advocate for human-centered design. However, I’ve also reached a stage in my career as a user experience designer that tends to breed cynicism. After seeing features and products that aren’t supported by proper research or user input, it is through writing here that I can reimagine why and how things could be different. While I specialize in (conversational) AI products, I will cover a range of topics within design and am eager to hear about your interests as well.

Hollywon’t

Almost exactly a year ago, I wrote about the ongoing strikes in Hollywood. My stance remains the same - AI is entertaining, not entertainment. California seems to be catching on, with SB 1047 legislation making its way to becoming law. Since a lot of the foundation models (think OpenAI and popular AI tools that have come out of Silicon Valley) are in California, this is one to watch.

I find it hard to believe that AI is not already present in Writers’ Rooms. However, beyond the writing of these films is all the labor associated with production - acting, animation, lighting, stage design, and sound design, all of which can be replaced or sped up by AI. I’m all about co-creation (the act of using AI to help humans work more efficiently), but when it comes to art, I’m still undecided on what is ethical or sustainable.

The adage "ask for forgiveness, not permission” may as well be the slogan for generative AI. Despite all the lawsuits that are headed for AI music companies and more, I can’t help but be pessimistic about its use in the entertainment industry.

Fun for the LA Locals (+ one for everybody)

• Anyone can peruse the Internet Archive Book for fascinating drawings on just about anything

• PST ART is back this month with hundreds of artists exhibiting the intersection of art & science

• Read scripts from your favorite movies at the WGF library (before AI-generated scripts make their way in?)

• Cumbia week is upon us and if you want to be gozando y bailando conmigo, avísenme 🙂 

What do you want to hear from me most? (reply or comment)

• Hot takes

• Practical use cases

• Unique recs + rabbit holes

• Interesting news