Pascal Wicht brings a unique interdisciplinary perspective to AI applications, combining roles as researcher at Sicpa (a century-old family company producing security inks for global banknotes), former graphic designer, and educator focused on post-growth economic models.

Professional Background

Wicht's current research centers on how banknotes interact with mobile money systems worldwide, involving extensive fieldwork through interviews and photography. His background spans creative direction and graphic design, with ongoing selective client work for projects that align with his values. In education, he teaches sustainable business models and explores societal frameworks beyond traditional growth paradigms.

AI Philosophy and Practice

Positioning himself as having a «love-hate relationship with AI», Wicht advocates for minimal, intentional usage. His creative process emphasizes extensive pre-visualization to reduce computational demands: «I recently developed a campaign for a luxury brand. Four different creative tracks and I only did four hours of midjourney so it's one hour per track because I know exactly what I want.»

Environmental and Sovereignty Concerns

Wicht experiments with running AI models on his personal solar infrastructure, seeking technological independence from corporate platforms. His environmental consciousness extends to contemplating complete withdrawal: «I told them maybe last week I'm thinking about opting out. I want to close my midjourney account.»

Creative Vision

His speculative design work explores alternative futures, from post-climate-change food systems to imagined geographer-doctor societies that blend medicine with cartographic practices. Wicht's approach emphasizes documentary authenticity and cultural sensitivity, drawing on his experience living in Mozambique and understanding global inequalities.

Core Principle

Wicht maintains that genuine artistic value requires human observation and sensibility: «A good artist knows how to observe the world and brings his own or her own sensibility into the work. So if you don't take the time to observe the world and you don't work on your sensibility, it doesn't matter how much AI you have. Your images will look synthetic, empty, and they won't perform.»

Key Insight: Wicht represents a conscious approach to AI adoption that prioritizes environmental responsibility, cultural sensitivity, and meaningful creative output over technological efficiency or market trends.