I can't believe I have published 170 interviews already!
Wow, I have published 170 Interviews plus 12 Musings, which is what I call this type of post, since I started the Arkansas Art Scene Blog on March 1, 2020. So, I thought I would do something a little different with this posting. But first, some statistics since my last summary on January 9, 2023, What I learned after 134 interviews. So far in 2023 there have been 14,343 unique visitors to the blog, a 14.3% increase over 2022! I continue to be amazed, but what this shows is that there is a lot of interest in learning about Arkansas’ fine art artists and that there are a lot of wonderful artists in this state.
It makes me very happy and I am honored that I can provide this type of support to our arts community.
Interviewees 135 - 170 in 2023.
There is growing interest and talk about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and AI-generated art. I am just beginning to learn about it myself. Of course, AI is being used for many things –things that we don’t even realize – including writing. So, I thought it might be interesting and fun to let AI write the rest of this posting. I’ve mentioned before that I am a retired researcher, so I thought I would run an experiment. I am also old school – using the phrase ‘old school’ just proved it – and like ‘real’ hands-on art, but I want to remain open minded about AI-generated art. As an experiment, I used Copy.ai, an AI writing tool that generates unique text (no plagiarism) on any topic using Google and other sources. Users can also choose a ‘voice’ – I chose postgraduate. Copy.ai also offers some limited free access so I did not have to pay for this experiement. The website is so simple to use it is scary. I simply ‘asked’ three questions: Why should I buy local art?, Should I buy art just because it is called art? and Should AI-generated art be considered real art? I did no editing to the text that it generated, just some rearranging. Here is the AI-generated answers to these questions:
Buying local art is not only enjoyable, it also has numerous benefits. Here are some reasons why it is important to support local art:
1. Support the local economy: By buying from local artists, you help to support the local economy. This means your money stays within the community, which can help to improve the local economy.
2. Unique pieces: Buying from local artists means you are more likely to find unique works of art. This is because local artists often have their own unique style that is not found in mass-produced art.
3. Connect with the artist: When you buy art from a local artist, you have an opportunity to connect with them, which can be very rewarding. You can learn more about the creative process, and the inspiration behind the art.
4. Build a collection: Collecting art from local artists can be a great way to build a unique collection that represents the local community.
5. Foster creativity: Supporting local artists can help to foster creativity in the community. This is because it gives local artists a chance to showcase their work, and inspire others to pursue their own creative endeavors.
Overall, buying local art is a great way to support your community, foster creativity, and find unique pieces that you will treasure for years to come.
However, you should not buy art solely because it is labeled as "art." The decision to purchase art should be based on your personal preferences, taste, and emotional connection to the artwork. Art is subjective, and what appeals to one person may not resonate with another. When considering purchasing art, take the time to understand and appreciate the piece. Consider the artist's intent, the techniques used, and the emotions or ideas conveyed. Reflect on how the artwork makes you feel and whether it aligns with your personal aesthetic and values.
It's important to buy art that genuinely speaks to you, evokes emotions, and brings you joy. Whether it's a painting, sculpture, photograph, or any other medium, the art you choose to buy should have a meaningful impact on you. Developing a personal connection with the art you purchase can enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of it over time. Additionally, learning about the artist and their background can add depth and context to the artwork. Supporting artists whose work and values you resonate with can also be a rewarding experience. Ultimately, the decision to buy art should come from your own appreciation and connection to the piece, rather than solely relying on a label or title.
AI-generated art refers to artwork, such as paintings, music, or poetry, created with the assistance of artificial intelligence algorithms and techniques. These algorithms can analyze large amounts of data, learn patterns, and generate new and unique artistic creations automatically. AI-generated art can result in various styles, ranging from realistic to abstract, and can offer new perspectives and innovative forms of artistic expression.
Some worry that AI-generated art might devalue the human creative process and diminish the role of artists. Additionally, concerns about authenticity and copyright issues have been raised, as AI algorithms can replicate existing styles and potentially infringe on the original artist's work. However, others see AI-generated art as an exciting tool that can expand artistic possibilities and offer new avenues for creativity. AI algorithms can be seen as tools that artists can use, much like traditional art supplies, to augment their creative process, explore new techniques, or generate novel ideas.
Ultimately, the art community will need to actively engage with AI-generated art, embrace its potential, and consider how it can coexist with traditional art forms. Like any new technology, AI in art should be seen as a tool that artists can embrace and utilize in their own unique ways.
The question of whether AI-generated art is considered real art is a subject of debate1. Some argue that AI-generated art is not real art because it is created by a machine without human creative input and lacks the inherent talent associated with traditional art forms2. However, others believe that AI-generated art should be considered real art because it involves human programming and input, and the final output is a result of both the machine's algorithms and the creativity of the human programmer1.
Art, in its essence, is a form of creative expression, and AI-generated art can certainly be seen as a unique form of artistic expression. The use of algorithms and machine learning in creating art opens up new possibilities for creativity and pushes the boundaries of traditional art forms1. These digital creations can evoke emotions, provoke thought, and challenge conventional ideas of what art is.
It's important to note that the perception of AI-generated art may vary among individuals and the art community as a whole. Some may appreciate the technical innovation and aesthetic appeal of AI-generated art, while others may question the originality and authenticity of art created solely by machines.
Ultimately, the definition of art is subjective, and the debate surrounding AI-generated art's status as "real art" is likely to continue as technology advances and new artistic possibilities emerge. It is up to individuals and the art community to determine how they perceive and value AI-generated art.
Sources:
1. Harvard Gazette. "Is art generated by artificial intelligence real art?" Available at: https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2023/08/is-art-generated-by-artificial-intelligence-real-art/
2. MediaHub Alfred University. "Is AI art really art? A pointless or a necessary argument?" Available at: https://mediahub.alfred.edu/2022/12/02/art-and-ai/
So, next time I post a Musing, you can wonder – is it really me or is it Memorex – again, old school…
