Not long ago, a childhood friend of mine, who now studies at an art school in France, and I were talking about the fact that how quickly we have adapted artificial intelligence technology into our daily lives. Our discussion went on for hours and not for a moment did either of us get bored. After reading my previous articles, he suggested I write an article summarizing our discussions and looking forward to it.
Well, how can I reject an old friend? And the time is right. The art world is currently abuzz with debate about artificial intelligence: generative tools like Midjourney, Dal·e, and Runway are making headlines, and serious conversations are taking place about how these technologies can reinvigorate creativity. Some museums are even exploring AI-infused exhibits, and auction houses are selling AI-created pieces alongside living artists. Unsurprisingly, this has sparked controversy. Critics have sounded the alarm: “Let’s not destroy the spirit of art,” they warned. “Art must remain human.”
Well, I’m in favor of using AI in art. And I am also in favor of preserving the human essence of artistic creation. These positions, in my view, are not contradictory. This conversation should not be framed as “AI replacing artists.” Rather, think of it as AI Empowerment As I argued in a previous article (“It’s About Empowerment”), technology is always perceived as a threat to human endeavor, but it almost always turns out to be an extension of it. And today’s artists can use all the help they can get.
Being an artist in the 21st century is not easy. Like referees or umpires, they are often only noticed when the work is “wrong” when the work is deemed derivative, unusual or unnecessary. And ironically, they’re now being judged against a fast-paced universe that’s fast, clean, and often surprisingly impressive. It’s not a fair playing field, unless artists are equipped with the same tools.
To be clear, I support AI as AI Toolnot as one Change. I’m particularly intrigued by tools like Dal·e, which allow artists to quickly translate abstract concepts into visual drafts. These tools are not flawless. But they are improving rapidly and offer capabilities that most humans can achieve alone. Below, I’ve outlined some common objections I’ve made to the use of AI in art and a response to each. (And I bet if you’re reading this in 2035, you’re wondering why it was controversial.)