Play, Create, Innovate: Benjamin Southworth on AI’s Role in Artistic Evolution

In this riveting episode host Lena Robinson welcomes Benjamin Southworth, a polymath who seamlessly blends art, music, entrepreneurship, and technology. Known for helping found groundbreaking tech community events such as Silicon Drinkabout, Chew the Fat and Don’t Pitch Me Bro, Benjamin shares insights from his journey co-founding 3Beards and playing a pivotal role in London’s Tech City (now rolled out nationwide as Tech Nation), to where he is today. Whether helping to orchestrate art hackathons in the Tate Modern or designing digital tools for emerging economies, Ben's career is a testament to the creative potential of technology.

The conversation dives deep into the intersection of AI and creativity, exploring how tools like generative AI can serve as collaborators rather than competitors for artists. Ben eloquently discusses the joy and challenges of maintaining a childlike sense of wonder, both in art and in life, and how his upbringing among artistic parents shaped his philosophy. The episode also tackles pressing questions: Can AI truly be a “bicycle for the mind,” amplifying human creativity, or does its rapid adoption risk mechanising our artistic souls?

From musings on empathy as the cornerstone of meaningful tech to real-world anecdotes of using AI for problem-solving, this episode is an enlightening exploration of technology’s role in art, society, and the future. Tune in to hear Ben’s predictions, hopes, and concerns about AI's impact on creative expression and human connection.

Links mentioned in this episode

• Benjamin Southworth's website - https://peaceandlovehq.super.site/
• Tech City UK - https://www.techcityuk.com/about-us/
• Book - Act of Creation by Arthur Koestler - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Act_of_Creation
• React - https://react.dev
• Python - https://www.python.org
• JavaScript - https://www.javascript.com
• Dennis SEVERS’ House - https://dennissevershouse.co.uk
• Shopify - https://www.shopify.com/
• Angus Steakhouse - Influencers misled - https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/ai-angus-steakhouse-reddit-london-b2638158.html
• Tony Blair Institute for Global Change - https://institute.global
• Eric Drass - Fine Artist - http://ericdrass.com

How to find Benjamin Southworth on Social Media

• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/benjaminsouthworth
• Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inthecompanyofus/
• Twitter - https://x.com/inthecompanyof

Thanks for listening, and stay curious!

//Lena