Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising the world of modern art by challenging traditional concepts of artistry. AI enables artists to explore and generate novel forms of expression, that seemed unimaginable just a decade ago. However, this fascinating intersection of art and technology is transforming not only the way art is produced, but also how is perceived, experienced, and valued. Therefore, it raises questions about the essence of art, authorship, and originality. Read through the article to find out the key areas where AI makes an impact.
Creation of art
- AI algorithms learn from datasets of existing images to create new artworks, this is called generative art. AI has the ability to create a wide range of art styles, like abstract, realistic, modern. All of them often identical to human created art. As a perfect example of how AI can expand the boundaries of modern art, have a look at the illustration of Mount Fuji with a blend of realism, modernist style, and colourful essence generated by ChatGPT:
- Artists can use AI as a collaborator, where it can generate new ideas or drafts. These drafts can serve as a starting point for the artist. This allows artists to find inspiration for ideas when it feels like they’re out of creativity. Moreover, AI can create endless variations of a concept, enabling the artist to save time and refine their ideas quickly.
- AI makes art creation accessible to everyone. It allows people without any artistic training or skills to produce high quality art pieces. This introduces new perspectives by broadening the range of voices in the world of art and creation. As an example, have a look at a more detailed image of a 3D humanoid robot created by ChatGPT by using the following concept description:
AI art concept
Shape and Build: A humanoid robot with a sleek and modern design. The robot stands at about 6 feet tall with a well-proportioned, athletic build. The body is composed of smooth, metallic panels with joints that allow for fluid movement.
Head: The robot’s head is slightly elongated with a sleek, visor-like display that serves as its “eyes.” The visor can change colors depending on the robot’s status or emotions. It has a smooth surface with no visible facial features.
Arms and Hands: The robot has two arms, each equipped with five-fingered hands that can articulate like a human’s. The hands have a combination of precision tools and sensors embedded within them.
Legs and Feet: The legs are sturdy and slightly thicker than the arms, designed for stability and mobility. The feet have a flat, slightly wider base for balance and the ability to adapt to different terrains.
Colour Scheme: The robot’s body is primarily silver with accents of blue and white, giving it a futuristic and clean look. The joints and inner mechanisms might have glowing elements, adding to the high-tech appearance.
Accessories: The robot could have various accessories like a retractable drone stored in its back, a utility belt for tools, and a small display on its forearm for interacting with its systems.
Ethical considerations
- Because AI learns from existing artworks, questions arise about originality and authorship, and even if AI generated art can be considered original and authentic at all.
- The datasets which AI uses to generate art, often includes copyrighted material, which raises questions about intellectual property rights and could potentially lead to legal actions.
- Some traditional artists worry that AI can diminish the value of human created art, by challenging the significance of being an artist. Moreover, debates arise about whether the AI will have the ability to replicate identical art pieces that individuals can sell as authentic.
The best tools to generate AI images
- ChatGPT: The free version generates high quality images without watermarks. Moreover, the most images generated through ChatGPT have no visible errors like others.
- Canva: It recently integrated “Magic Media” which allows users to generate beautiful artworks. Moreover, users can benefit from integrated AI tools which can create specific style artworks, such as anime. However, to fully experience the benefits, a subscription of £10.99/month is essential.
- Adobe Firefly: Besides creating several styles of artworks with many customisation options, this tool allows users to upload their image to get variations. However, the images are often with errors and very visible that is AI generated. Moreover, the free version lets you download just with the watermark on.
- Grok/X: This newly integrated in X (Twitter) app AI tool has the ability to generate breathtaking images. The tool is available to X premium users, at a price starting from £11/month.
