Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) Use Policy

Quatrefoil is committed to the responsible, transparent, and ethical use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the design of exhibitions for history museums, science centers, and other cultural institutions. Our approach aligns with the principles of public trust, intellectual integrity, accountability, and transparency articulated by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) and the American Alliance of Museums (AAM).

At the heart of it, we believe that human creativity and ingenuity should never be replaced by machines. We value the expertise of our human team to guide our processes and the designs that come out of them. At the same time, we can’t deny that AI is changing the way we all work, improving workflows and making time-consuming tasks more efficient. To that end, our goal is to have AI help us improve administrative systems and streamline our process so that we can stay more focused on the creative endeavors which require thoughtful human input.

Transparency and Public Trust
Consistent with ICOM and AAM standards, AI will not be used in ways that obscure authorship, curatorial intent, or institutional accountability.

Accuracy, Scholarship, and Review
All AI-generated content is subject to human oversight and professional review. If AI content is knowingly incorporated, the individuals responsible for those elements will evaluate it for factual accuracy, historical and scientific validity, cultural sensitivity, and alignment with curatorial and educational goals. We do not endorse the use of generative AI in exhibits to create scenes or imagery that could be mistaken for actual historical events or people. We cannot, however, prohibit collaborators and partners from using generative AI content on their own.

Intellectual Integrity and Copyright Compliance
We will not knowingly employ AI systems or datasets that infringe upon the rights of creators, scholars, or cultural communities. We strive to secure permissions and give credit and compensation to creators where it is due to them.

Clear Attribution and Disclosure
Where appropriate, AI-generated elements will be clearly identified if they are presented in public-facing contexts. Elements that have been drafted by generative AI and then heavily edited or reworked by humans may not warrant AI labeling.

Human Responsibility and Ethical Judgment
AI serves as a support tool, not a substitute for professional expertise, curatorial authority, or ethical responsibility. Final decisions and accountability for all exhibition content remain with our human project team and our partner organizations, in alignment with ICOM and AAM expectations for stewardship and ethical practice.