Asian Media Access (AMA), with support from the City of Minneapolis, is proud to present highlights from our inspiring presentation on March 17, 2025 session featuring Meow Wolf’s Technical Director William Slayden. This special event was part of AMA’s e-Magine! Initiative, a free 13-week online program running from February 17 to May 2025 that provides training in Generative AI and Digital Marketing. The program has enrolled 35 trainees who are learning through two focused tracks: Creation (using AI tools like ChatGPT, NightCafe and Pika) and Sharing/Distribution (covering digital marketing and WordPress). The Meow Wolf Presentation stood out as a program highlight, offering unique insights into how AI intersects with immersive arts and experiential design.
Slayden began by explaining Meow Wolf’s distinctive identity as a B Corp-certified company that prioritizes local hiring, diversity/equity/inclusion (DEI), and environmental sustainability. These values shape every aspect of their work, from exhibit development to community partnerships. More than just creating entertainment, Meow Wolf is committed to building creative communities while maintaining sustainable practices. Their approach demonstrates how businesses can successfully balance artistic vision with social responsibility.
During the presentation, Slayden showcased Meow Wolf’s innovative approach to large-scale interactive art installations that combine technology, storytelling and audience participation. He highlighted their upcoming Austin exhibition as a prime example of their creative process. This ambitious project incorporates crowd-sourced designs from Reddit and features remarkable technical elements including 2,500+ Edison plugs, 16-17 miles of network cabling, and eight immersive environments like a Forest Ruin, VR Mini Golf course and Rainbow Room arts education space. These details illustrated how Meow Wolf pushes boundaries by merging artistic vision with cutting-edge technology.
A key concept Slayden emphasized was Meow Wolf’s “designing by making” philosophy – a hands-on, iterative approach to creation. He introduced the Experiential Design Team, a cross-functional group of artists, IT specialists and construction professionals who collaborate closely on each project. This unique structure ensures seamless integration of artistic vision with technical execution. Slayden shared inspiring examples of innovation, including one artist’s use of carbon-absorbing paint that reflects the company’s environmental commitments. He also explained how Meow Wolf designs exhibits to be Autism-friendly and maintains a supportive workplace culture that encourages employees to develop customized roles.
The session generated enthusiastic discussion as trainees asked thoughtful questions about practical aspects of Meow Wolf’s work. Topics included scaling digital designs for large installations, preserving exhibits through archival processes, collaborating with local artists, budgeting for major projects, and potential remote work opportunities. Many participants expressed interest in possible Meow Wolf expansions to Minneapolis and special projects for niche audiences like art therapy programs for veterans. The presentation clearly resonated with attendees, who shared feedback like “This is great inspiration – design the life you want!” and “Thank you for showcasing creativity in such a human way.”
For e-Magine trainees, this session demonstrated the exciting career possibilities that emerge when combining AI and digital marketing skills with creative vision. As participants continue developing their AI portfolios – including images, videos and multimedia content – Meow Wolf’s example serves as powerful inspiration for what’s possible at the intersection of art and technology. Slayden’s presentation not only revealed Meow Wolf’s innovative creative processes and technical solutions, but also their strong commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
As Meow Wolf expands to new markets like Austin, their influence on the art and entertainment industry continues to grow. Their success proves that immersive experiences can be both technologically advanced and deeply human. Through initiatives like e-Magine and partnerships with innovative organizations like Meow Wolf, AMA is helping bridge the gap between creative vision and technological execution while preparing BIPOC youth and underrepresented communities for success in the digital economy. With additional program cohorts launching in June and August 2025, these opportunities will continue to expand. For more information, please contact amamedia@amamedia.org.
