We’re in the final stages of our project, and it’s incredible how much work we’ve been putting into each tab. Initially, we had a clear vision of how each tab would function and look, but as time went on, we found ourselves making tweaks and changing certain aspects—either to improve our workflow to complete everything by the exhibition or because we grew more attached to specific tabs than expected. We’ve met multiple times on campus to ensure we’re all on the same page and to figure out details like the name of our project. Using ChatGPT for brainstorming gave us ideas that led us to a name we felt represented the project perfectly: SYNC-ception.

We wanted our project to capture the late ’90s and early 2000s web/tech aesthetic, so I created a Pinterest mood board to help us visualize what each tab might look like. When designing the AI dating tab, we reviewed the mood board and found pins we each really liked, and then Seyyid used that inspiration to design the layout. Our group divided specific tasks for each tab based on our strengths. Seyyid, who has more experience with graphic design and building websites, focused on making the site functional, while Somaya took charge of AI-generated art for the art gallery and the layout of the UFO news report tab. I’ve enjoyed creating the AI-generated furniture and extra photos for our AI dating profiles.

Interestingly, although I initially thought I’d focus mainly on the AI dating site—a tab I suggested because I’m fascinated by how AI and tech influence modern-day relationships—all three of us ended up contributing so much time and effort to it. We each generated unique people for the dating profiles, adding more depth by creating additional images showing each character engaged in hobbies and activities listed in their profile. Working with Leonardo.Ai for this was sometimes tricky; while some profiles easily generated consistent images of characters doing various activities, others came out with different-looking characters or only basic portrait shots, which was frustrating. Still, we decided to work with what we have, considering the time left until our exhibition.

All in all, it’s been so much fun working with my group members, and I’ve valued their hard work and creativity in this assignment. Seeing how each tab evolves based on who’s spending more time on it is really exciting. We all had individual ideas and goals, but the beauty of group work is seeing how the project shifts to reflect each member’s vision. Together, our efforts are coming together into a project that represents all our goals and creativity!