Art and AI

There has been a lot of press, rightly so, over the past few years about the role of AI in creating art, potentially plagiarising artists work etc, so I wanted to see if I could use it in another way, to actually help with my process by critiquing on the way, suggesting areas for improvement.

I want to start by saying that I am completely aware that it is a machine, cannot actually see anything so there are many limitations to this, but I thought it might be interesting.

After input from AI critique

In 2023, I took a series of photos to paint from, and did a version of this painting (above) that I was never totally happy with, mainly because I had rushed it for an exhibition.  I decided to have another go. 

I usually spend a couple of mornings a week painting with others in Natalia Spitale's studio in Sóller, however that has closed, so I am painting on my own.  I miss having the feedback of the people in that room, so I wondered if AI could crtitique art.

Before AI critique

On 29 July I was at this stage (above) thinking it might be finished, so I asked for feedback. Personally, I was surprised by the response, the level of detail and the suggestions for improvement.

Clearly, nothing beats having actual people to discuss ideas with, and hear their opinions and suggestions, but in the absence of that I enjoyed the experience of using AI this way.

Is the painting better? Well, who gets to decide that? but I do feel like I learned something that I can use.

I asked it how it could 'see' the painting, and it was clear that it couldn't, but uses pixelation to work out light, shade and shapes, and internet information to inform the critique. Also, the standard of the photograph will also have some bearing.

I'm sure there will be a lot of opinions on this, and I'd love to hear them!

Saludos

Sharon