Deepfakes for Good: Unveiling the E-ARTi Project

Ready for a plot twist?

The E-ARTi project is flipping the script on deepfakes, showing us how synthetic media—like deepfakes—can be the heroes, not the villains, in art and media education. Funded by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT Portugal) and based at the University of Lisbon's CIEBA, E-ARTi is on a mission to turn AI-generated art and memes into powerful tools for social justice, inclusivity, and cultural awareness.

But wait—what are deepfakes, really? Simply put, deepfakes are digital face-swaps, usually designed to mislead. But here's the twist: E-ARTi believes these very technologies can spark positive change. The project encourages creativity, collaboration, and visual activism, showing how teenagers are already remixing and reimagining these media for meaningful causes.

So, what's the goal?

The big idea is that synthetic media—used in a thoughtful, creative way—can help promote social justice and inclusion in art and media education. E-ARTi is developing a curriculum that teaches students ages 12-18 to use these tools ethically and critically, equipping them to express their voices and drive social change.

The Methodology (aka the magic formula):

E-ARTi combines online ethnographic research, art-based exploration, and practical AI strategies in the classroom. From 2024 to 2030, the project will unfold in three exciting phases, including classroom observations, workshops with students and teachers, and curriculum development. And yes, there will be two books—one for the academic world and another for teachers and students—packed with the project’s findings.

What’s in it for everyone?

E-ARTi Curriculum: A flexible, culturally responsive curriculum that helps teachers bring synthetic media into their classrooms.

Teacher Training: Professional development programs to help educators handle the ethical and pedagogical challenges of using synthetic media in class.

Awareness: Shining a light on how synthetic media impact art, education, and everyday life.

Publications: Two books that break it all down—one for academics and one for teachers and students.

Ethical Considerations: We know what you’re thinking: “Deepfakes? Aren’t they dangerous?” E-ARTi takes ethics seriously, addressing privacy, authenticity, and potential misuse head-on. The project ensures data protection and transparency, keeping everyone in the loop—from students to parents.

E-ARTi isn’t just about playing with technology; it’s about transforming how we engage with synthetic media. By empowering young people to critically engage with these tools, the project is shaping a more inclusive, conscious, and socially aware digital culture. Ready for the revolution?