I Learn to Diffuse, or Data Alchemy 101: a Mnemonic Manifesto

TL;DR

This paper introduces the concept of data alchemy through a multimedia narrative using text-to-image diffusion art, aiming to inspire scientific inquiry and creative exploration in visualization.

Contribution

It presents a novel narrative framework combining diffusion-based generative art with multimedia storytelling to explore data visualization and scientific inquiry.

Findings

Proposes data alchemy as a narrative device for visualization

Uses diffusion-based generative art to illustrate concepts

Encourages interdisciplinary and creative approaches in science

Abstract

In this manifesto, we put forward the idea of data alchemy as a narrative device to discuss storytelling and transdisciplinarity in visualization. If data is the prima materia of modern science, how does one perform the Great Work? We use text-to-image diffusion-based generative art to develop the concept, and structure our argument in ten propositions, as if they were ten issues of a comic novel on data alchemy: Ad Disco Diffusionem. To follow the argument, the reader must immerse themselves in our miro board, and navigate a multimedia semiotic topology that includes comics, videos, code demos, and ergotic literature in a true alchemic sense. By accessing this paradigm one might find new sources of inspiration for scientific inquiry in familiar places, or get lost in the creative exploration of the unknown. Our colorful, sometimes poetic, exposition should not distract the reader from the seriousness of the ideas discussed, but ultimately it is about the journey.