2023's Stratford Events
In 2023, we brought together scholars, activists, community members, artist and performers in Stratford to explore a diversity of compelling contemporary issues, including the Promise and Perils of Artificial Intelligence. From everyone at the Provocation Ideas Festival, thank you for your participation and support. Because of you, Provocation is able to succeed in its mission of fostering public spaces for spirited discussion, debate and exploration. People have come together to discover new ideas, share their perspectivs, and deepen their sense of community at Provocation events. We have been thrilled by the response.
If you missed this year’s Provocation events, video recordings and images from many of the panels and performances are now available below in relevant event sections.
November 4, 2023.
Creative Explorations with Digital Artist Ryan Kelln: Hands-on Workshop
Dive into the world of generative artificial intelligence with software artist, Ryan Kelln. Discover the magic of 'Stable Diffusion' – a cutting-edge text-to-image software. Master the basics, learn to edit and enlarge images, and even create videos. But it's not just about the 'how'; we'll delve into thought-provoking discussions on identity, appropriation, and copyright in the digital age. Join us for an immersive experience where technology meets art, and where automation and ethics intersect.
For this hands-on session, we encourage you to bring your own laptop. We will also have a limited number of laptops available for participants to use on a first-come, first-served basis.
Co-presented with Stratford Public Library.
Saturday, November 4 • 2pm to 3:30 pm.
Stratford Public Library
19 St Andrew St, Stratford, ON
November 13 - 18, 2023.
AI artistry on display: When all dreams come true
Step into a captivating world where local and global artists unite in an exhibition that transcends boundaries. Observe a breathtaking array of creations, all shaped by generative artificial intelligence. This extraordinary display unveils the profound impact of AI tools on the ever-evolving canvas of art, challenging conventions and ushering in a new era of limitless possibilities.
As AI tools flourish, they are revolutionizing the artistic landscape, dismantling traditional gateways, and creating a paradigm shift from scarcity to abundance. Our featured artists, each with their distinct perspective on these transformative tools, allow you to embark on a journey of reimagining art, culture, and the very concept of work in a world cohabited with AI.
Join us as we delve into this remarkable odyssey, an exploration and celebration of the artistry that thrives in a universe shared with these new forms of intelligence. These entities, for better or worse, have gleaned their wisdom from us, and their creations will leave you pondering the profound interplay between humanity and AI. Witness a possible future of art unfold before your eyes.
Monday, Nov 13 - Saturday, Nov 18 • Continual Showing During the Day and Night.
University of Waterloo Stratford School of Interaction Design and Business (Atrium)
125 St Patrick St, Stratford, ON.
Free event.
November 10, 2023
Neural Ballet
"Neural Ballet" is a live dance performance enriched with AI-generated visuals, collaboratively created and performed by professional ballet dancer and award-winning choreographer Irina Lerman, along with software artist Ryan Kelln. This distinctive show weaves a mesmerizing tapestry that includes both neoclassical masterpieces and original contemporary works, specifically crafted for this event. These pieces explore the fascinating intersection of physical artistry and the data streams that pulse through the emerging artificial intelligences redefining artistic boundaries.
Venturing into the nuances of intelligence, "Neural Ballet" poses the compelling question: How can movements and gestures, so deeply human, be captured, interpreted, and echoed by the realm of artificial intelligence? Join us for an exploration that dances at the intersection of tradition and innovation, encapsulating the dynamic dialogue between dance and data.
Co-presented with SpringWorks Stratford.
Join us for an exploration that dances at the intersection of tradition and innovation, encapsulating the dynamic dialogue between dance and data, featuring
Irina Lerman – Ballet Artist and Choreographer
Ryan Kelln – Digital Artist
Eileen Smith – Artistic Producer of SpringWorks , Opera Singer, Actor
Ron Kennell – Actor, Writer, Director, Producer
Moderator: Laura Condlln – Actor
Friday, November 10 • 7pm to 9pm.
Factory 163
163 King St, Stratford, ON
Performance programme available here.
November 16, 2023
CBC IDEAS: Visionaries in Conversation
Immerse yourself in a insightful discussion moderated by CBC IDEAS host Nahlah Ayed, accompanied by renowned science fiction writer and tech visionary, Cory Doctorow. Joining this compelling lineup is tech policy entrepreneur and incisive analyst, Vass Bednar. Together, they will embark on a thought-provoking journey, delving into the pivotal interplay between imagination, public policy, and advocacy.
Discover how these driving forces empower us to seize control of our technology, instead of ceding power to formidable external influences. This isn't just a conversation; it's an opportunity to explore how we reshape the future of our tech-driven world -- an exhilarating exploration of possibilities!
Co-presented with CBC IDEAS and the University of Waterloo Stratford School of Interaction Design and Business.
Thursday, November 16 • 7pm to 8:30pm.
University of Waterloo Stratford School of Interaction Design and Business
125 St Patrick St, Stratford, ON.
November 16, 2023
Inspiring the Next Generation
An exclusive encounter: Award-winning sci-fi author Cory Doctorow engages with 7th and 8th Graders. This is an educational opportunity for youth.
Co-presented with the Stratford Public Library.
Thursday, November 16 • 1:30pm to 2:30pm.
Stratford Public Library
19 St Andrew St, Stratford, ON
November 17, 2023
Transmigrations: Music & AI Fusion
Prepare to embark on a musical odyssey. Join us for a mesmerizing concert, a synergy born from the collaborative creativity of Dhaivat Jani and Ryan Kelln. This immersive experience delves into the history of the technological transformation of modern society, the nature of intelligence, and the recent revolution in generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools.
What sets this concert apart is its captivating fusion of music and visuals, co-crafted with the assistance of AI tools. Drawing inspiration from the personal journeys of these artists, the concert promises an enchanting remix of musical and visual cultures, guided in real-time by you—the audience.
But it doesn't end with the music; this event is a gateway to a thought-provoking discussion with artists, AI researchers, and practitioners. Gain insights into the art of using these transformative tools and contemplate how their ever-growing adaptation and accessibility may sculpt the future of economics, politics, and culture.
Performed by a virtuoso ensemble:
- Chris Pruden on keys and synth
- Dhaivat Jani on drums, compositions, and arrangements
- Lucas Dubovik on saxophone
- Devon Goping on bass
- Ryan Kelln on visuals
Discussion panel following the concert:
Loreena McKennett – musician, composer
Graham Abbey – actor
Ryan Kelln – digital artist
Dhiavat Jani – musician, composer
Stewart Cappie –audio engineer, videographer
Moderator: Katie Micak – new media artist
Join us for a memorable evening where technology meets creativity.
Co-presented with SpringWorks Stratford.
Friday, November 17 • 7pm to 9pm.
Factory 163
163 King St, Stratford, ON
Concert programme available here.
November 18, 2023
AI’s impact on Stratford
Our panel discussion brings together leaders and participants from the community to explore the impact of artificial intelligence on Stratford’s arts and culture, healthcare and manufacturing sectors.
Discover how these advancements are shaping our city’s future in this collaborative endeavor with Invest Stratford and the Stratford Public Library.
Here are the panel members:
- Andrew Williams, President & CEO, Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance
- Colin Singh Dhillon, Chief Technical Officer, Automotive Parts Manufacturing Association
- Andrew Mestern, Technical Director Scene Shop, Stratford Festival
- Kevin Tuer, Chief Technology Officer, Communitech - moderator
- Shelley Windsor, Vice President at Windsor Hospitality Inc.
Saturday, November 18 • 2pm to 3:30pm.
Stratford Public Library
19 St Andrew St, Stratford, ON
Free event, but registration required.
November 18, 2023
Salon AI:
Culinary Delights
As part of the Provocation Ideas Festival, we have reimagined this concept for the modern era. We cordially invite you to join us for this technologically enhanced social event featuring a blind tasting of canapés and paired beverages. Half of these culinary creations have been crafted by Chef Courtney Noble and Manager Steve Doyle of Cafe Bouffon, while the other half has been prepared under the guidance of Artificial Intelligence.
Experience a fully interactive event enhanced with cutting-edge engagement technology.
Saturday, November 18 • 7pm
Cafe Bouffon
70 Ontario Street, Stratford, ON
June 14, 2023
Love Across Borders Book Reading and Signing
Author Anna Leka Miller will read from her new book, Love Across Borders, which spotlights couples around the world who have confronted frustrating immigration systems to be together—as she did to be with her husband. The reading will be followed by a book signing.
“Love Across Borders is a powerful and unforgettable testament to the humanity and love that prevail in spite of borders. This is a book that will make you weep, rage, and fight for the change our world deserves.”
Featuring:
- Anna Lekas Miller.
Writer and journalist who covers stories of the ways that conflict and migration shape the lives of people around the world. She has reported from Palestine, Lebanon, Turkey, and Iraq. Her work has appeared in
Vanity Fair,
The Intercept,
New Lines Magazine,
CNN, and many others. She lives in London with her husband, Syrian journalist Salem Rizk.
Wednesday, June 14 • 2pm
Fanfare Books
192 Ontario Street, Stratford
June 14, 2023
Love Across Borders
With deep empathy, rigorous reporting, and the irresistible perspective of a true romantic, journalist Anna Lekas Miller spotlights couples around the world who confront frustrating immigration systems to be together—as she did to be with her husband.
“Love Across Borders is a powerful and unforgettable testament to the humanity and love that prevail in spite of borders. This is a book that will make you weep, rage, and fight for the change our world deserves.”
Miller will discuss the hardships of forced migration that countless couples around the world face to be together.
Featuring:
- Anna Lekas Miller.
Writer and journalist who covers stories of the ways that conflict and migration shape the lives of people around the world. She has reported from Palestine, Lebanon, Turkey, and Iraq. Her work has appeared in
Vanity Fair,
The Intercept,
New Lines Magazine,
CNN, and many others. She lives in London with her husband, Syrian journalist Salem Rizk.
Wednesday, June 14 • 7:00pm–8:30pm
Avondale United Church
194 Avondale Ave, Stratford
All proceeds from this event will be donated to Stratford Hope.
June 17, 2023
Jane's Walk: Is Stratford a Healthy City?
Walk and talk with fellow citizens through downtown Stratford. Join us in front of the Stratford Public Library for a talk led by Ryan Erb, Executive Director of Stratford's United Way, on the topic of affordability and homelessness. Next stop, the Stratford Pride Centre for a discussion about equity, diversity, and inclusion, led by Bruce Skeaff (note: this stop involves a flight of stairs, but there is an elevator). Then, we are off the Bus Terminal on Downie St., where Kathy Vassilakos will discuss active transportation in Stratford. Our final stop is the Bru Garden, where Sammie Orr will focus on Stratford's environmental footprint.
Local musician Dan Stacey will be playing the fiddle from 11:30am to 12:30pm. Stay and enjoy lunch and a beverage, sit in the sunshine and each other's company.
Saturday, June 17 • 9:30–11:30am
Stratford Public Library
19 St Andrew St, Stratford
Walk leader will carry a yellow clipboard.
