Why AI Is Not the Enemy of the Art World

AI in the art world: A nuanced perspective: Despite widespread concerns, artificial intelligence (AI) is not inherently detrimental to the art world, but rather offers significant potential and power to artists and institutions alike.

• The anxiety surrounding AI in the art world, while real, may be disproportionate to its actual impact on artists’ engagement with these emerging tools.
• Concerns about access to advanced AI technologies and their monetization by big tech companies overshadow the existing opportunities for artists to utilize and benefit from AI tools.

Current accessibility of AI tools: Contrary to popular belief, artists already have access to consumer-level, cutting-edge AI technologies for creative purposes.

• Platforms like Midjourney offer photorealistic renderings based on text prompts, with regular upgrades and new versions accessible to users at relatively affordable prices.
• OpenAI’s chief technology officer, Mira Murati, has stated that their publicly accessible models are not significantly behind the most advanced “frontier” AI models being developed in labs.
• The accessibility of these tools potentially lowers the barrier to entry for artists by thousands of dollars compared to traditional art-making equipment and materials.

Comparing AI to traditional art production: The costs associated with AI tools are often more manageable than those of traditional artistic practices.

• High-quality camera equipment, computers, software subscriptions, and traditional art supplies can quickly amount to thousands of dollars in expenses for artists.
• While there are costs associated with using AI tools, such as monthly subscription fees, they are generally more affordable and accessible than many traditional art-making methods.

AI’s impact on museums and art institutions: While AI may present challenges, it does not necessarily pose an existential threat to the museum ecosystem.

• AI’s summarizing effect on museum archives could potentially reduce context, but this is not dissimilar to the impact of other technologies like photographs, documentaries, and social media content.
• These technologies have largely enhanced the museum experience for millions of people, suggesting that AI could have a similar positive impact.

Data sourcing and ethical concerns: The debate surrounding AI in art often focuses on the ethical sourcing of training data, but this issue is not unique to AI.

• Similar concerns about data privacy and usage exist with social media companies, yet these have not received the same level of scrutiny as AI.
• The selective focus on AI’s data practices may be distracting from the technology’s enormous potential in the art world.

Democratization of image creation: AI tools have significantly lowered the barriers to entry for creative expression.

• For the first time in history, anyone with internet access can create high-quality images regardless of financial status, physical ability, or technical skill.
• This democratization of image creation represents a significant shift in the accessibility of artistic tools and potentially opens up new avenues for creativity and expression.

Looking beyond the challenges: A more productive approach to AI in art involves asking better questions and exploring its potential rather than assuming harm.

• The art world has historically adapted to and benefited from new technologies, from the internet to computers and cameras.
• AI presents another opportunity for evolution and innovation in the art world, rather than an inherent threat to artistic practices or institutions.

Broader implications: Embracing AI’s potential in art: As the art world grapples with the integration of AI, it’s crucial to move beyond fear and skepticism towards a more nuanced understanding of its possibilities.

• While legitimate concerns about data privacy and ethical AI development should be addressed, these issues should not overshadow the transformative potential of AI in democratizing art creation and enhancing artistic expression.
• By embracing AI as a tool rather than viewing it as a threat, the art world can potentially unlock new forms of creativity, expand accessibility, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in artistic production and appreciation.