PhD Oral Exam - Suzanne Kite, Individualized Program

When studying for a doctoral degree (PhD), candidates submit a thesis that provides a critical review of the current state of knowledge of the thesis subject as well as the student’s own contributions to the subject. The distinguishing criterion of doctoral graduate research is a significant and original contribution to knowledge.

Once accepted, the candidate presents the thesis orally. This oral exam is open to the public.

Abstract

This dissertation explores the possibilities of the ethical creation of artwork using artificial intelligence (AI) through the development of protocols based on Lakȟóta ontologies, resulting in collaborative artworks collectively titled Hél čhaŋkú kiŋ ȟpáye (There lies the road). It investigates how Lakȟóta ontologies are well-suited for creating ethical and reciprocal relationships with the nonhuman and articulates that perspective in the context of creating performance artworks and collaborative art-making processes. This project is conducted in collaboration with the Lakȟóta communities diasporically, the Oglála Lakȟóta community in Pine Ridge Reservation, and diasporic Indigenous communities internationally. Through these collaborations, this dissertation has involved recordings, installations, performances, and written documents considering our current and future relationships to nonhumans with special consideration to digital technology in general and AI specifically—while articulating ethical processes which define who and what is in relation. It considers the acute necessity for engagement with Indigenous ontologies through research-creation in order to develop artworks and technologies in ethical ways. This dissertation 1) seeks to understand Indigenous ontologies, specifically Lakȟóta ontology, by collaboratively defining relationships to nonhuman beings through the process of art-making; 2) develops culturally-grounded methodologies to guide the creation and refinement of AI wearable and digital technologies through performance, sound art, and visual art practice; 3) develops the foundations for a specifically Lakȟóta Artificial Intelligence system; and 4) suggests Indigenous (Lakȟóta) research methods for research and creation in collaboration with Indigenous communities.