We Are At War is the latest, groundbreaking new work and 9th book by London born, New York based conceptual artist Phillip Toledano.
In an era where AI is reshaping media and testing the boundaries of authenticity, this book couldn’t be more timely—especially with moments in history developing such as the recent American election, where questions about truth and AI-manipulated content are front and center.
In We Are At War, Toledano doesn’t just create a book; he reinterprets history itself through AI. Published by Italian publishers L’Artiere and on sale from this week, the book recreates a lost roll of film by iconic war photographer Robert Capa, depicting D-Day through an AI lens. This unique project, a meticulously crafted 1944-style newspaper with AI-generated articles and period advertisements, accompanied by contact sheet of the ‘lost roll of film immerses readers in both the anticipation and chaos of that pivotal day. Even the simulated “missed shots” add an uncanny realism, all achieved through AI technology.
By questioning,
“If we can rewrite the past so convincingly, what does that mean for the present?”,
Toledano raises profound implications about AI’s impact on our sense of history, authenticity, and memory. His project, which he calls “historical surrealism,” goes beyond art—it’s a thought experiment on AI’s potential to shape what we perceive as truth. This speaks to technology’s growing power to redefine not just our future, but our understanding of the past.
With AI’s rapid advances, We Are At War offers a relevant exploration into how technology influences public perception and historical accuracy—a conversation especially pertinent as media manipulation and authenticity concerns become more prominent.
Phillip Toledano will be one of the photographers represented by publishers L’Artiere at a Q&A session at this Saturday December 7th, at Picturehouse and the Small Dark Room in New York. You will have the opportunity to see We Are At War IRL.
This Is War Robert Capa (July 2009): READ
