AI Is Already Here What’s happening now in artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence has become a lightning rod for modern society. It promises new possibilities while raising difficult and important questions. Is it all hype and harm, or can AI also help illuminate new ways of thinking, creating and living? 

 AI Is Already Here is an intriguing panel discussion that brings together local experts, writers, artists and thinkers who are engaging with AI in grounded, practical and critical ways, right here in Western Australia. Author Jay Martin is joined by Perth Festival commissioned artist and AI practitioner Adam Kelly, critical thinking specialist and author Bethan Winn, and Wei Lui,  Deputy Director of the Data Institute at UWA.

Together, they will unpack the truths, myths and unknowns surrounding artificial intelligence, exploring what AI can and cannot do, how it is already shaping everyday life, and what it means for creativity, work and human decision-making. 

Hosted by the State Library, this conversation creates space for listening, questioning and shared understanding. Offering an opportunity to engage with AI experts beyond headlines and hype, through local experience and community insight. 

Panellists 

Bethan Winn

Bethan Winn is a keynote speaker, facilitator and director of Human Skills Co, delivering tailored and transformative training to professional, government, academic and corporate audiences. Her latest book, The Human Edge: Critical Thinking in the Age of AI, was published in 2025.

Wei Liu

Associate Professor Wei Liu is an expert in Agentic AI and machine learning. She is the Deputy Director of the Data Institute at The University of Western Australia and has significant experience designing AI solutions.

Adam Kelly

Adam Kelly is an emerging theatremaker and a self described autistic gentleman. He began his career as an actor with WA Youth Theatre Company in 2017 and has appeared in many WAYTCo productions. In 2025, Adam performed Dragon I, a work exploring the intersections of AI, autism, technology, capitalism, creativity, diversity and social justice. The show was commissioned and presented as part of the 2026 Perth Festival.

Jay Martin

Jay Martin is an author of nonfiction and fiction living and working on Whadjuk Noongar Boodjar (Perth, Western Australia). Her writing often engages with complex contemporary topics, particularly the human condition as shaped by commercial, technological and industrial forces. Her most recent novel, Boom Town Snap, was published by Fremantle Press in 2025.