AI trends and challenges for the 21st century museum

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping industries, including the museum and cultural heritage sector. Recent advancements, such as the Nobel Prize recognition for John Hopfield and Geoffrey Hinton’s foundational work on artificial neural networks, highlight the transformative potential of AI alongside its ethical implications, including risks of misinformation and manipulation. Similarly, the use of AI to recreate the voice of the late critic Brian Sewell for a Van Gogh exhibition review demonstrates the intersection of innovation and controversy in the arts.

This presentation explores the state of AI integration in museums, reflecting both excitement and scepticism. Despite initiatives like the Smithsonian Museum’s AI Values Statement and the establishment of the European AI Office, significant barriers remain, including a lack of digital literacy, technical infrastructure, and strategic upskilling within the sector. Findings from recent surveys reveal that many museum professionals feel underprepared for AI adoption, underscoring the need for targeted education and collaboration with AI specialists.

Drawing on examples such as the AI4Culture platform and recommendations from ICOM and NEMO, this talk proposes actionable steps for fostering AI adoption. These include integrating upskilling into museum strategies, creating crossfunctional teams, and implementing phased pilot programs to ensure ethical, sustainable AI integration that aligns with museums’ missions.

By embracing thoughtful collaboration and addressing barriers, museums can position themselves as active contributors to AI advancements, enhancing accessibility, education, and community engagement while preserving their cultural and ethical integrity.