Foundation models meet visualizations: Challenges and opportunities

Abstract Recent studies have indicated that foundation models, such as BERT and GPT, excel at adapting to various downstream tasks. This adaptability has made them a dominant force in building artificial intelligence (AI) systems. Moreover, a new research paradigm has emerged as visualization techniques are incorporated into these models. This study divides these intersections into two research areas: visualization for foundation model (VIS4FM) and foundation model for visualization (FM4VIS). In terms of VIS4FM, we explore the primary role of visualizations in understanding, refining, and evaluating these intricate foundation models. VIS4FM addresses the pressing need for transparency, explainability, fairness, and robustness. Conversely, in terms of FM4VIS, we highlight how foundation models can be used to advance the visualization field itself. The intersection of foundation models with visualizations is promising but also introduces a set of challenges. By highlighting these challenges and promising opportunities, this study aims to provide a starting point for the continued exploration of this research avenue.