Bonn, November 11, 2025. What role does Artificial Intelligence play in creative work – inspiration or threat? This question was at the center of the panel discussion “AI – Muse or Monster?”, held on November 8 as part of the Cine Bonn Bleu Short Film Festival at Kinopolis Bad Godesberg. The panel was moderated by Anna Höpfner, a Computer Science Master’s student at the University of Bonn and member of the Lamarr Institute for Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence.
In front of an audience of around 400 people, experts from design, film, and technology explored the creative potential and ethical challenges of AI:
- Manuela Klauser, creativity and innovation consultant and AI artist (sheisinblack.art)
- Sally Kiss, multidisciplinary designer and founder of KISSDESIGN
- Tatjana Wittig, Director and Chapter Lead AI at Deutsche Telekom
- Tanja Schalling, producer and filmmaker
- Philipp Ladage, media educator and filmmaker
The discussion addressed questions of authorship, responsibility, and artistic freedom in the age of intelligent systems. Panelists reflected on how AI can enrich creative processes while also raising concerns about bias, authenticity, and accountability.
“What made it truly exciting was the diversity of perspectives – from artistic curiosity to critical reflection on ethics and control,” said moderator Anna Höpfner. “It became clear that creativity and responsibility must go hand in hand. As AI becomes part of our creative processes, it’s crucial that we reflect on how we use these tools – responsibly, transparently, and with awareness of their impact.”
For the Lamarr Institute, this dialogue lies at the heart of trustworthy AI: while Artificial Intelligence can open new creative horizons, it also demands responsibility, reflection, and ethical awareness. Only when used responsibly can technology become a genuine tool for human creativity.