Today’s Weekend AJ Highlights

Good morning. How can you believe anything anymore? AI has taken away the “proof” of a video. And seeing (or hearing) is definitely not believing anymore. Sociologists call it “deep doubt,” and being unable to truly believe in anything is destabilizing, not just personally, but for the wider culture. Ars Technica’s Benj Edwards explores the phenomenon. Meanwhile, here are the rest of today’s highlights:

  1. China’s Art Censorship Targets Contemporary Artists
    China’s increasing crackdown on contemporary art has forced many artists to go underground or leave the country entirely. This new wave of censorship is severely limiting creative expression. Read more on The New York Times.
  2. Is AI Creating a Crisis for the Art World?
    As AI-generated art becomes more prevalent, artists and curators are grappling with existential questions about the future of creativity. Is human input becoming irrelevant in the art world? Read more on The Guardian.
  3. Indigenous Artists Lead the Way in Climate Activism
    Indigenous artists from the Amazon to the Arctic are using their work to advocate for urgent climate action, blending cultural traditions with contemporary environmentalism. Their art is drawing attention to the devastating impacts of climate change on indigenous communities. Read more on BBC.
  4. Met Gala’s New Theme Sparks Controversy Over Colonial History
    The announcement of the Met Gala’s new theme, centered on colonial influences in fashion, has ignited a heated debate. Read more on Vogue.
  5. The Return of Live Theatre in Post-Pandemic New York
    New York’s theatre scene is experiencing a renaissance as audiences flock back to live performances post-pandemic. The industry is also facing new challenges, from inflation to shifting audience demographics. Read more on The Washington Post.

As usual, skip down to read the rest of the stories we collected this weekend. See you tomorrow.

Doug

Latest Stories

After 99 Years, CBS News Is Shutting Down Its Radio Network

“Today, CBS News Radio provides material to an estimated 700 stations across the country and is known best for its top-of-the-hour news roundups. The service will end on May 22, the network said Friday.” - AP

Merriam-Webster And Encyclopedia Britannica Sue OpenAI

“The lawsuit (by the American dictionary publisher and British encyclopedia) incorporates both the ‘mass-scale copying’ of their copyrighted content for training AI models and for real-time RAG scraping (retrieval-augmented generation). It also claims ChatGPT generates outputs that contain ‘full or partial verbatim reproductions’ of Encyclopedia Britannica and Merriam-Webster content.”...

Jury Finds Bill Cosby Liable In Another Sexual Assault Case, Awards $59 Million

“After a nearly two-week trial in Santa Monica, jurors found Cosby, 88, liable for the sexual battery and assault of Donna Motsinger. They awarded her $17.5 million in past damages and $1.75 million for future damages, … (plus) an additional $40 million in punitive damages,” totaling $59.25 million. -...

Premium

Finance Consultant – Arts FMS

Arts FMS is seeking a Finance Consultant with extensive experience in accounting and financial management, preferably in the arts sector.

Senior Finance Consultant – Arts FMS

Arts FMS is seeking a Senior Finance Consultant with extensive experience in accounting and financial management, preferably in the arts sector.

The Cecilia Chorus of NY, Carnegie Hall, April 17.

The Cecilia Chorus of NY, Carnegie Hall, April 17. Pianist Simone Dinnerstein, guitarist David Leisner. Premieres by Robert Sirota; Mark Buller, Leah Lax, Beth Greenberg.

The Heifetz International Music Institute seeks Executive Director.

The next Executive Director will advance the organization’s mission, safeguard its financial and operational strength, and foster an environment in which artistic excellence thrives.

The Florida Orchestra seeks Vice President of Development.

The next Vice President of Development will play a central role in advancing the financial strength and long-term sustainability of The Florida Orchestra.

Director of Philanthropy – Ballet Arizona working with Management Consultants for the Arts

Celebrating its 40th year & launching a new artistic vision under Artistic Director Daniela Cardim, Ballet Arizona is poised for ambitious growth. The organization seeks

Grand Rapids Symphony – President & CEO

As it approaches its 100th anniversary in 2030, the Grand Rapids Symphony seeks a mission‑driven President & CEO to lead its next chapter of impact

Classifieds

Development Director – Eugene O’Neill Theater Center via TOC Arts Partners

The Eugene O’Neill Theater Center seeks a new Director of Development.