Like the advent and widespread adoption of the computer, artificial intelligence (AI) has already started changing how creative work is done. To help students and professionals navigate that shift, RRC Polytech’s Schroeder Institute of Entertainment and Media Arts, together with presenting partner CreativeMornings Winnipeg, is hosting a free Fireside Chat on AI and Creativity. This lunchtime event will take place January 29 from 12 to 1 p.m. at the Roundhouse Auditorium in Manitou a bi Bii daziigae.

The event will bring two industry experts, Sophie Theodorou and Ben Myers, to the Schroeder Institute for an interactive discussion exploring the role of AI in the creative industries, and how it can be used as a ‘power-tool’ to help creatives iterate faster and expand how visual stories are developed.

“This is a top-of-mind topic at the Schroeder Institute right now,” says Thomas Lepp, Director of the Schroeder Institute. “AI is evolving and changing at a fast pace…it almost feels like there’s this huge tidal wave building behind us. That’s why we’re trying to bring some conversation and knowledge to the local creative community.”

Ben Myers is the CEO and co-founder of Robin, an AI communication platform that serves organizations across Canada, including educational institutions, entertainment venues, and government agencies.

He also founded Blatant Space, a creative studio specializing in generative AI art that has partnered with major brands and artists, including Gucci, BEAK>, and Mononeon.

Before working in tech, Myers was a VFX compositor and manager on major productions including Avatar and The Hunger Games, providing him with a deep understanding of the practical challenges facing media professionals.

“I look forward to sharing practical examples of how AI can be integrated into the artistic practices of students and faculty,” says Myers.

Sophie Theodorou is a content creator, AI consultant and recognized thought leader in the space.

She built a successful business by combining expertise in content creation, video editing and social media strategy, growing an audience of over 100,000 followers across TikTok and Instagram (@teach2ai).

Her work spans brand partnerships with companies including Adobe, Samsung, GoDaddy and Google, as well as advising early-stage companies on growth strategy. She has also served as a preferred product tester for Microsoft Copilot, Google AI Search, and Anthropic Claude, and has led AI training sessions globally through Apple Education.

“Ben and Sophie are artists at heart,” says Lepp. “They are two very positive and intelligent voices who have been at the forefront of adopting these tools and figuring out how they can give you superpowers and allow you to move forward in the design process in a very effective way.”

The Schroeder Institute supports Manitoba’s growing creative industries by developing local talent and strengthening connections between education and industry. As AI continues to reshape creative work and the skills behind it, the Schroeder Institute of Entertainment and Media Arts and RRC Polytech are focused on helping people build the skills to do their jobs well alongside AI.

That work extends beyond the classroom. This panel is part of a series of future-focused Fireside Chats hosted by the Schroeder Institute, designed to create welcoming, accessible spaces where students, creatives and industry professionals can come together to build a more connected creative community.

“We’re hoping attendees will leave with the understanding that there is a path forward to adoption,” says Lepp. “This will be a nuanced, thoughtful conversation that leads to some outcomes that will be helpful to people in their design and artistic practices.”

Reserve your spot for the AI x Creativity Fireside Chat on Jan. 29.