President’s Report August 2026
Denise Keele-bedford
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a major focus in our world today. Is it something to be feared, celebrated, or simply embraced as another contemporary tool?
AI takes many forms, all based on increasingly sophisticated computer technology. The ability to gather information from countless sources and generate responses to almost any question is both remarkable and, at times, overwhelming.
A couple of years ago, a photographer friend showed me an image that a young person had created using an AI app on his phone. Stephen explained that it was produced almost instantly and was remarkably close to what had been requested: "A koala driving a tractor, wearing a baseball cap, at sunset in the foothills." Imagine any variation of that scene and AI could generate it. Change it to a red tractor, a blue cap and a yellow koala—bingo—that's what you get.
Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery
More recently, I had a fascinating experience with AI at the Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery while visiting “Helen Britton: The Story So Far”.
I met up with a MSWPS member who volunteers at the gallery, and during our conversation about memories, she invited me to participate in The Synthetic Memories Project.
The project invites members of the community to share stories that might otherwise fade over time. Through a guided one-on-one conversation, participants explore an early or significant memory and work collaboratively with facilitators to translate it into a visual form. Using a carefully controlled generative AI process, spoken and written descriptions are transformed into dreamlike images—fragmented, poetic and emotionally resonant reflections of memory itself.
As I spoke, I was amazed to watch images appear almost instantly on the screen in response to my words.
The interview, together with the generated image and accompanying text, will remain on display for the duration of the exhibition. There are no privacy concerns, as neither my name nor my likeness is used.
It was an unexpectedly positive experience, conducted in a gentle, thoughtful environment with a welcoming atmosphere. If you happen to be visiting the area and AI intrigues you, I encourage you to drop in and experience the project for yourself.
Heide Museum of Modern Art
On Friday 31 July, a group of MSWPS members met at Heide Museum of Modern Art. We know we are doing something right when a relatively new member remarks, "This is why I joined the Society." These outings provide wonderful opportunities to get to know one another, view and discuss exhibitions together, support each other's learning, and broaden our artistic horizons.
Activities at Ola Cohn House
Our Life Drawing sessions and Open House gatherings also bring members together to create, connect and share ideas. I encourage everyone to keep an eye on the events and activities listed on our website. It is a valuable communication channel that you can access at any time.
Website:
You'll find details of upcoming MSWPS events there, including the Affordable Art Fair, which holds a pleasant surprise. Be sure to take a look—and register early.
Entries for our Annual Exhibition opened on 1 August and close on 6 September. Please log in to your Member Portal to submit your entry.
We are also seeking volunteers to assist on delivery day (Tuesday 6 October), at the Exhibition Opening (Saturday 10 October), and on collection day. When completing your entry form, please indicate your sitting times and when you are available to help.
A reminder to all exhibiting members that no images of your exhibition artworks are to be shared on social media prior to Judging Day on Thursday 8 October.
Annual Bus Trip
The Annual Bus Trip to the Shepparton Art Museum is now half full, so if you are planning to attend, please register soon. Full details are available on the website.
As we move closer to our Annual Exhibition, it becomes an especially busy time for your committee. I would like to thank them sincerely for their dedication and commitment. My thanks also go to the many members who volunteer their time and energy to help make our exhibition such a successful and welcoming event for both artists and the wider community.
Members views and suggestions are always welcome, contact your committee at:
Many Birthday wishes to August born members.
