Overview of the Initiative

Chanel has announced its partnership with the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) to establish the Chanel Center for Artists and Technology. This groundbreaking center is set to commence operations this fall at CalArts’ Santa Clarita, California campus.

Objectives and Focus Areas

The Chanel Center is designed to offer students, faculty, and visiting researchers across various creative disciplines access to advanced technology, with a particular emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and digital imaging. The center also plans to facilitate collaborations with museums, universities, and technology firms.

Funding and Resources

Supported by the Chanel Culture Fund, the center will provide essential resources, including:

• State-of-the-art equipment
• Visiting artists and technologists-in-residence
• Graduate fellowships
• Innovative research and creation initiatives

Additionally, the center aims to host an annual forum focused on the interaction between artists and emerging technologies.

Statements from Leadership

CalArts President Ravi S. Rajan expressed enthusiasm about the new center, stating, “The Chanel Center for Artists and Technology at CalArts makes real an endeavor that’s long been in our dreams…we recognize that throughout history and across cultures, it’s the artists who consistently lead us toward a more imaginative, compelling, and just future.”

Yana Peel, Chanel’s global head of arts and culture, highlighted the significance of the initiative, noting, “Artists have always shown us what’s next through the constant evolution of new ideas…the Chanel Center for Artists and Technology will enable and encourage creatives across disciplines to harness that innovation.”

Next Steps

As part of the establishment process, a search for an executive director to lead the center is currently underway, ensuring that the initiative is steered toward impactful outcomes for both artists and technological advancements.