This podcast explores the impact of AI on art and artists, including discussions on creativity in the age of AI, China's advancements in AI technology, and the potential of AI as an enabler for artists. It also explores the tensions between art for elites and art for the masses, and questions the value and identity of AI-generated art. The podcast concludes by discussing the transformative nature of AI on artistic practice, emphasizing that it will not render artists obsolete but instead birth a new kind of artist.
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Quick takeaways
Generative AI is being widely adopted in business applications in China, enhancing operations and showcasing China's dominance in integrating AI into consumer areas.
AI is seen as a tool for innovation and creative expression by Chinese artists, enabling them to explore new perspectives and reach wider audiences while emphasizing that AI lacks the depth and originality stemming from human experience and imagination.
Deep dives
Generative AI in Business Applications in China
Generative AI is making significant strides in business applications in China. Companies like JD.com, NetEase, and Up Fintech Holdings are leveraging AI to enhance their operations. JD.com has implemented personalized recommendation systems and automated pricing tools. NetEase has launched a low-code platform for easy software production. And Up Fintech Holdings introduced an AI-powered investment assistant. These examples highlight China's dominance in integrating AI into consumer areas.
Artists Embracing AI and Innovation
Chinese artists are embracing AI as a tool for innovation and creative expression. Some artists believe that AI can help overcome constraints and push the boundaries of artistic creation. The book 'Book from the Ground' is one such example, where computer software was used to create narratives using icons. Artists see AI as an enabler rather than a competitor, as it allows them to explore new perspectives and reach wider audiences. While concerns exist about AI potentially replacing human creativity, these artists emphasize that AI lacks the depth and originality that stems from human experience and imagination.
AI's Impact on the Definition of Art and Artist
The advent of AI is challenging traditional notions of art and the role of the artist. The concept of authenticity, which used to be a cornerstone for evaluating art, is increasingly being replaced by the idea of possibility. AI's transformative nature and its ability to augment human creativity reshape artistic practice. Rather than rendering artists obsolete, AI serves as a catalyst for artistic reinvention. It transforms artists into connected creators, breaking away from the isolated genius archetype. While there are concerns about AI leading to homogenous creativity, the fusion of AI and human imaginations opens up new artistic horizons and redefines the purpose and function of art in the 21st century.
In this episode of The Briefing I consider how AI is impacting art and artists. We drop in on the Stanford event around Creativity in the Age of AI, we consider some of the news making headlines about China and AI. And we end up at the Ujazdowski Castle Centre for Contemporary Art, in Warsaw, from where I spoke about AI and the Death of the Artist.
Tracey's book 'The Future of You: Can Your Identity Survive 21st Century Technology?' available in the UK and US
"'AI: The Death of the Artist?' is part of the Culture Tensions discussions curated by Manick Govinda and Agnieszka Kolek, commissioned by the Ujazdowski Castle Centre for Contemporary Art, Warsaw Poland”.