AI for Breakfast

Post 36 - Should AI-generated imagery be considered art?

I’ve seen a lot of comments about this particular subject on various social media platforms and it certainly is a hot topic!

I guess you could compare it to the invention of photography in some ways. It caused a bit of a stir in the art world back then however we now have fine art photography so it seems people got over it eventually.

You could also argue that the writing of prompts to output images with AI is a form of creative writing, so could it be creative writing that’s the art or should we accept it as a new form of art? Beauty is in the eye of the beholder as the saying goes and I've seen some amazing imagery created with lengthy and well thought out creative prompts.

Using my own custom GPT built with GPT4 I got the following response, and once again at the very least it is certainly thought provoking.

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and creativity, a question that frequently surfaces is whether AI-generated imagery should be considered art. This topic stirs up a blend of opinions, emotions, and perspectives, making it a fascinating area to explore. Here, we'll delve into various aspects of this debate, aiming to shed light on the artistic value of AI-generated imagery.

The rise of AI in the creative world

AI's foray into the realm of creativity has been nothing short of spectacular. From generating intricate visuals to composing music, AI technologies have demonstrated an ability to produce works that resonate with human emotions and aesthetic appreciation. But does this ability qualify AI-generated imagery as art?

The essence of art

To address this question, we must first consider what defines art. Traditionally, art is seen as a manifestation of human creativity and expression, evoking emotional or intellectual responses from its audience. It's a medium through which artists convey their vision, emotions, and messages.

The case for AI-generated imagery as art

• Innovation and creativity: AI can create visually stunning images that often surpass the imaginative constraints of the human mind.
  These images can evoke emotions, provoke thought, and inspire, fulfilling many criteria we associate with traditional art.

• Collaboration between human and machine: Many artists use AI as a tool to push the boundaries of their creativity. In these instances, the AI becomes an extension of the artist's vision, playing a crucial role in the creative process.

The case against AI-generated imagery as art

• Lack of intent: Critics argue that AI lacks the conscious intent behind creating art. Since art is often defined by the intention and emotion of the creator, the absence of these elements in AI-generated works raises questions about their authenticity as art.



• The role of the artist: Some argue that art is intrinsically linked to the human experience. It's not just about the end product but the journey of creation, reflecting the artist's personal touch, thought process, and emotional investment.

Where do we stand?

The debate over whether AI-generated imagery constitutes art is complex and multifaceted. On one hand, the ability of AI to produce visually captivating images that can evoke an emotional response suggests that these creations can indeed be considered art. On the other, the absence of human intent and the unique touch of an artist in the creative process poses a significant counterargument.

As we navigate this debate, it's essential to keep an open mind and recognize the potential of AI to complement and enhance human creativity, rather than seeing it as a replacement. The integration of AI in the art world opens up new avenues for exploration, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and challenging our preconceived notions of artistry.