SAN DIEGO, CA, October 28, 2023 — In a momentous gathering of leading minds and scholars in the imagination space, Fabrice Guerrier, the founder of Syllble, had the distinct honor of participating in the “Atlas of Imagination” Workshop held at the Arthur C. Clarke Center for Human Imagination, UC San Diego on October 20-21, 2023. This historic workshop marked the inception of an exciting journey toward the establishment of a groundbreaking field of study, “Imagination Studies,” in the 21st century.
The workshop convened a select group of visionaries who specialize in various facets of imagination, from neuroscience and cognitive science to social science and philosophy. The primary goal was to propel forward a theoretical model of imagination, exploring its intricate features, boundaries, and the boundless possibilities it holds. Collaboration and the exchange of knowledge were paramount during this 1.5-day event.
The occasion featured thought-provoking discussions on the profound role of imagination in the modern world and the imperative need to understand and harness its potential. Fabrice Guerrier delivered a presentation on his theories concerning “Imaginary Worlds” and the groundbreaking work of Syllble, emphasizing the transformative power of collaborative worldbuilding which facilitates the convergence of diverse creative communities from various backgrounds, uniting them as both creators and engaged fans.
Moreover, Fabrice believes it underlines the vital necessity of Syllble as a modern studio system that is owned by diverse creators from around the world who are activated through science fiction and fantasy collaborative worldbuilding. Through Syllble he also stressed the necessity of telling entertaining stories from underrepresented voices who we wouldn’t otherwise hear from. And the need to imagine new futures encompassing political, social, economic, cultural, and technological realms previously unexplored.
The workshop hosted a public event with Dr. J. Craig Venter, the pioneering scientist responsible for sequencing the human genome, who shared insights on aphantasia, a condition characterized by the inability to visualize mental images. Dr. Stephen Asma, renowned author of “The Evolution of Imagination” and a workshop participant, engaged in enlightening conversations with him.
Among the esteemed attendees were:
- Dr. Ed Finn, PhD, Associate Professor and Director of the Center for Science and the Imagination at Arizona State University.
- Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman, PhD, Founder and Director of the Center for Human Potential, noted author of “The Cambridge Handbook of Intelligence.”
- Dr. Peter Langland-Hassan, Professor of Philosophy and Director of Graduate Studies at the University of Cincinnati, author of “Explaining Imagination.“
- Dr. Amy Kind, Russell K. Pitzer Professor of Philosophy and Director of the Gould Center for Humanistic Studies at Claremont McKenna College.
- Dr. Stephen Asma, celebrated author of multiple books, including “The Evolution of Imagination.”
- Dr. Erik Viire, Md, PhD, Professor and Director of the Arthur C. Clarke Center for Human Imagination at UC San Diego.
See a full list of the guests here.
The “Atlas of Imagination” Workshop marked the commencement of a new era in the exploration of imagination’s role in our rapidly evolving world, promising exciting developments and profound insights into the uncharted territories of human creativity and innovation. Fabrice Guerrier’s participation in this event underscores the significance of Syllble’s mission and the synergy between diverse intellectual disciplines, empowered creators and science fiction and fantasy storytelling in shaping a future where imagination knows no bounds.