Is AI Art "Real" Art?
January 3rd, 2023

Exploring the Ongoing Debate Over the Status of AI-Generated Art

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been making waves in various industries, including the world of art. AI-generated art, or art created using AI algorithms and software, has gained attention and sparked a debate over whether it should be considered "real" art. While some argue that it is a valid form of artistic expression, akin to traditional art forms like painting and sculpture, others maintain that it lacks the personal touch and creative input essential to "real" art. As AI technology continues to advance, it is worth examining the arguments for and against recognizing AI-generated art as a legitimate form of artistic expression.

AI-generated art has been around for a while but has gained more attention in recent years. Early examples of AI in art include computer-generated music and visual art from the 1960s, but it wasn't until the development of more advanced AI technology in recent years that it started to take off. Today, AI-generated art is exhibited in galleries and museums and sold to collectors. Some have achieved high prices at auction, showing that it is gaining recognition as a legitimate form of artistic expression.

Why AI-Generated Art Deserves Recognition

There are many examples of successful, well-regarded AI-generated art. One such example is the work of artist Mario Klingemann, who is known for using machine learning algorithms to create abstract and surreal visual art. Klingemann's work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world and has been praised for its technical skill and creative use of AI technology.

Art piece by Mario Klingemann at Nature Morte Gallery – New Delhi, India
Art piece by Mario Klingemann at Nature Morte Gallery – New Delhi, India

Another notable example of AI-generated art is the work of artist Anna Ridler, who uses AI algorithms and machine learning techniques to create intricate and detailed illustrations and patterns. Ridler's AI-generated art has been exhibited at galleries and art fairs and has been praised for its ability to create complex and intricate visual compositions that explore themes of technology and humanity.

GAN video Projection by Anna Ridler, Cypress Trees: Fragmentation – 2021
GAN video Projection by Anna Ridler, Cypress Trees: Fragmentation – 2021

Throughout history, the introduction of new technologies has always had an impact on the art world and has enabled the creation of new art forms. For example, the camera and digital media have revolutionized the way we create and consume art, and have led to the emergence of new art forms such as photography and digital art.

Just as the camera and digital media have allowed for the creation of new forms of art, AI technology has the potential to enable the creation of new and exciting forms of art that we have not yet imagined. The medium or process used to create art should not be the sole criterion for determining its value or artistic merit.

The Case Against AI-Generated Art as Inauthentic

One of the main arguments against recognizing AI-generated art as "real" art is that it lacks the personal touch and creative input that is often seen as essential to "real" art. Some argue that because AI algorithms and software are responsible for creating AI-generated art, rather than a human artist, it cannot capture the same depth and meaning as art created by human artists.

Additionally, some argue that the creative process behind AI-generated art is fundamentally different from that of traditional art forms. While human artists must use their imagination and skill to create art, AI algorithms and software rely on pre-programmed rules and data sets to generate art. This difference in the creative process may make it difficult for some to see AI-generated art as being on par with traditional forms of art.

It is important to remember, however, that the use of AI in art does not necessarily exclude the role of human artists. Many AI-generated artworks are the result of collaboration between human artists and AI and involve a blend of human creativity and technical expertise. As such, AI-generated art can incorporate the personal touch and creative input that is often seen as essential to "real" art.

Summing Up

In my personal opinion, AI-generated art should be considered a valid form of artistic expression. While the medium or process used to create art may be different from traditional art forms, it shouldn’t diminish its value as art.

Ultimately, the question of whether AI-generated art can be considered "real" or authentic depends on a variety of factors, including its ability to evoke emotions in the viewer, the artist's intention, the creative process behind the artwork, and the cultural context in which it was made. By keeping an open mind and considering all of these factors, we can better understand and appreciate the place of AI-generated art in the art world. What do you think? Can AI-generated art be considered true art, or is it just a cool new trend?

This is all, for now.
I’ll catch on the next one ✌️

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