Fresh ideas from museums around the globe in your inbox each week
January 07 2025
By Manuel Charr
Synthetic Memories is a creative project that uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to bring personal memories to life, especially those without photos or videos. By turning people’s detailed recollections into AI-generated images and short videos, this project helps recreate moments that might have faded with time.
Helping People with Dementia and Alzheimer’s
One of the most meaningful uses of Synthetic Memories is in therapy for people with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. These AI-generated images can help spark forgotten emotions and encourage conversations about the past. Therapists have found that revisiting these recreated memories can improve emotional well-being and help slow cognitive decline.
A Space for Sharing Stories
In May 2024, Synthetic Memories opened its first public office at the Disseny Hub in Barcelona. Supported by the Barcelona City Council and BIT Habitat, this space invites people to share their memories and have them turned into AI-generated visuals. Participants can also choose to include their stories in a public exhibition, creating an archive of shared human experiences.
Want more insights like this? Explore our upcoming virtual conferences here
Ethics and Privacy Come First
Synthetic Memories takes privacy and ethics seriously. They ensure that the AI-generated images are not mistaken for real photos by intentionally adding slight visual differences. Cultural sensitivity is also a priority, and they collaborate with local organizations to ensure every community is treated with respect.
Connecting Generations Through Stories
One of the most beautiful parts of this project is its ability to connect generations. Older people can share their stories with younger participants, building bridges between the past and the present. By using AI to preserve and visualize memories, Synthetic Memories helps create a deeper sense of connection and understanding across ages.
A New Way to Preserve Memories
Synthetic Memories shows how technology can do more than just make life convenient—it can help us remember, connect, and understand one another better. Through AI, this project offers a unique way to honor personal and shared histories, making sure important stories are never forgotten.
How Synthetic Memories Started
Launched in 2022 by the creative studio Domestic Data Streamers, Synthetic Memories works with people from different communities around the world. Through one-on-one interviews, the team gathers stories and transforms them into visuals. This has been especially important for refugees and migrants who may have lost photos or never had the chance to document their lives.
Want more insights like this? Explore our upcoming virtual conferences here
–
Airí Dordas from Domestic Data Streamers will be speaking about Synthetic Memories at the Museum AI Summit in March.
About the author – Manuel Charr
Manuel Charr is a journalist working in the arts and cultural sectors. With a background in marketing, Manuel is drawn to arts organizations which are prepared to try inventive ways to reach new audiences.
