Ringling College of Art and Design, in partnership with community impact firm DreamLarge, will host its second annual AI Symposium, AI and Creative Innovation: Advocating for Artists and Designers, on October 10–11, 2025, at the Ringling College campus. This year’s event brings together leading voices in art, technology, and education to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping creative industries—and how artists can respond with both innovation and integrity.
As AI continues to evolve rapidly, Ringling College is at the forefront of guiding artists, designers, and educators through this technological shift. With new research initiatives, certificate programs, and curriculum integrations, the College is establishing a global standard for how creatives can engage with AI responsibly and effectively. The annual symposium serves as a cornerstone of this mission, offering attendees the chance to dive into critical conversations, hands-on workshops, and forward-thinking presentations.
“Ringling College of Art and Design isn’t just preparing for the future of AI; we’re actively defining it,” said Dr. Larry R. Thompson, President of Ringling College. “Through comprehensive programming and strong community partnerships like this one with DreamLarge, we’re ensuring that creatives are empowered to lead—not follow—in the AI era.”
A platform for ethical AI innovation
The 2025 AI Symposium will feature two days of talks, demonstrations, and networking events designed to empower artists and designers to navigate the opportunities and challenges posed by AI. The event’s mission is clear: to advocate for creatives, promote ethical practices, and champion human-centered design in a tech-driven world.
Speakers include industry veterans and emerging leaders such as:
- Dr. Moiya McTier, astrophysicist and senior advisor to the Human Artistry Campaign
- Peter Mohrbacher, fantasy artist and creator of Angelarium
- Amelia Winger-Bearskin, associate professor of AI and the Arts at the University of Florida
- Cat Hicks, Ringling alum and Head of Animation Innovation at Cartwheel.ai
- Kurt Paulsen, co-founder of Sapiendra.ai and a leader in motion design education
Attendees can also engage with workshops led by AI experts and educators such as Tim Nohe, Mary Fiore, and Steve Diasio, addressing topics from AI ethics and storytelling to creative skill-building in a tech-disrupted landscape.
As part of the two-day experience, we’re excited to invite you to the Day One afterparty! Held from 7-9 pm at the Sarasota Magazine and DreamLarge headquarters (just a few minutes from the campus), this event is free to attend and enjoy for attendees of the symposium.
Enjoy light bites, complimentary drinks, good music, and great vibes as we exchange ideas and learnings from the day, and get excited for Day Two!
Registration Details
The AI Symposium is open to the public and welcomes professionals, educators, students, and anyone interested in the evolving relationship between art and AI.
Learn more and register for the symposium on the AI Symposium webpage.
Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest Ringling College news in your inbox.
Contact:
Office of Marketing and Communication
communications@ringling.edu
941-309-4008
