Discovering the Artistic Genius of Baris Gencel: A Transformative Journey in AI Art
A Spotlight from the AI for Good Global Summit: The Canvas of the Future AI Art Contest
This year’s AI for Good Global Summit showcased a truly remarkable event—the Canvas of the Future AI Art Contest, held in collaboration with Shutterstock. Talented artists and AI enthusiasts from around the world were invited to create stunning and original visual masterpieces using AI technologies, embodying their vision of a sustainable future aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
Among an array of outstanding entries, Baris Gencel’s artwork stood out. Serving as the Director of Digital Transformation and Innovation at the Lanvin Group in Shanghai, Gencel received praise for his impactful piece titled “Faces of Extinction of Species: Our Faces, Their Faces.” This artwork powerfully depicts the essential relationship between humanity and endangered species, resonating with the summit’s main focuses on sustainability and the vital role of AI in addressing global challenges.
Gencel’s entry outshone nearly 100 submissions from 37 countries, highlighting its significant message and remarkable artistry. His piece poignantly addresses the urgent environmental crisis by blending human and animal images, drawing attention to the plight of endangered species.
Acceptance Speech: A Call to Action
In a tone of humility and urgency, Gencel utilized his acceptance speech as the 2024 Canvas of the Future Winner to highlight the urgent environmental issues depicted in his artwork. He reflected on the inspiration derived from Carl Sagan’s famous “Pale Blue Dot,” stressing the necessity for collective action to protect our planet and its diverse forms of life.
“Look again at that dot. That’s here. That’s home. That’s where all life is,” Gencel passionately quoted Sagan’s profound perspective. He continued, “Every being you love, every creature you know or do not know, every plant, every animal, and every human who has ever lived is on it. But now, our excessive actions, intertwined with selfishness and greed, have caused suffering and led to the extinction of numerous species.”
His heartfelt address served not just as a reflection but as an urgent call for action. Gencel urged everyone present to recognize their shared responsibility for Earth and its ecosystems, highlighting how the extinction of even a single species affects the entire biosphere.
A Personal Inspiration
Gencel’s passion for environmental conservation is deeply rooted in his own experiences. He shared a moving story about Nana, a cat he adopted from a Shanghai shelter in 2018, which changed his perception of animals and their vital role in our lives.
“Nana transformed my life and everything I know about animals,” he expressed, emphasizing the profound bond and responsibility humans have towards all living beings.
His artwork, which skillfully combines human faces with animal textures, flowers, and plants, serves as a tribute to the interconnectedness and diversity of life on Earth. By incorporating human traits into the stories of endangered species, Gencel’s art delivers a powerful message about the collective fate shared by all living entities.
More than just a creative pursuit, Gencel’s work acts as a voice for the voiceless—a reminder that humanity must actively work to protect and appreciate the rich mosaic of life our planet offers. His vision aligns perfectly with the goals of the AI for Good Summit, showcasing how AI and creativity can foster meaningful and positive transformation.
“The Earth is [the] only world known thus far to harbor life,” Gencel remarked, “[and] at this moment, it is where we all make our stand. This emphasizes our duty to treat one another with compassion and to protect and cherish the only home we’ve ever known.”
Baris Gencel’s Vision: Compassion and Action
The clarity of Gencel’s vision is unmistakable: through collaborative effort, empathy, and thoughtful use of AI, humanity has the ability to tackle today’s pressing environmental crises. His art and resonant words spark hope and urgency, encouraging each of us to become stewards of our planet and champions for its future.
Baris Gencel’s commitment to ecological preservation and sustainability goes beyond his artistic creations; it is a profoundly personal mission. During his poignant acceptance speech, he fervently expressed his concerns about the planet’s current state. Drawing parallels between human actions and their harmful consequences on the environment, he utilized his art as a medium to convey this crucial message.
“Every majestic snow leopard in the snow mountains is without snow, every polar bear is left stranded on a solitary piece of ice to survive without ice, every bird in the gray sky, […] and every beautiful flower is on the brink of extinction,” Gencel passionately portrayed, deepening our understanding of the environmental crisis.
His heartfelt words resonated with attendees, many of whom were visibly moved by his impassioned plea for heightened environmental consciousness.
Gencel envisions a future where art and technology unite to enhance our understanding of our responsibility in conserving the planet.
“With my art, I strive to be a voice for them. If we don’t take action now, it will be too late,” he reiterated, emphasizing the urgent need for immediate intervention.
