Reader’s Question:
I find that I don’t feel any value in artwork or creations made by generative AI. What do you think? I’ve noticed that many bands are using AI-generated images for their merchandise. Personally, if I find out that a piece of merchandise features an illustration created by AI, it
makes me less inclined to spend money on it. How do you feel about this? If the merchandise for your favorite artist was created by AI, would it not bother you at all? Would you still want to spend money to collect it?
Reflections on AI and Art: A Personal Perspective
I often find myself in deep conversations with friends about the value of art, especially in this age of rapidly advancing technology. Just the other day, I was chatting with a classmate over coffee—well, more like a mountain of snacks, because we both have a weakness for pastries. You know how it goes; one moment you’re discussing the finer points of psychological theories, and the next, you’re elbow-deep in a chocolate croissant, debating the merits of generative AI in art. One of the most compelling points that came up during our discussion was the emotional connection we have to artwork and how that connection can be profoundly altered when we discover that a piece was created by AI. I can totally relate to the sentiment expressed in the reader’s question about feeling less inclined to purchase merchandise featuring AI-generated illustrations. There’s something about the human touch—the imperfections, the stories behind the creation—that adds layers of value to art that a machine simply can’t replicate. I remember my first encounter with generative AI artwork at a gallery opening. I was excited, thinking I’d see something groundbreaking. Instead, I found myself standing in front of a piece that felt eerily sterile. It was beautiful, yes, but it lacked that spark of humanity that makes art resonate. I felt like I was looking at a well-crafted advertisement rather than a piece of creative expression. It made me question, “If this can be produced by an algorithm, where does the artist’s soul go?” Interestingly, my friend shared a different perspective. He argued that as long as the final product is high quality and resonates with him aesthetically, the origin of the creation didn’t matter as much. It’s a valid point, and I’ll admit, it made me reconsider my stance a bit. Perhaps there is a segment of art consumers who prioritize the product’s quality over its backstory or creative process. It’s a nuanced conversation that can lead to surprising insights about our individual values. Yet, I can’t shake the feeling that the narrative behind a piece—how it was created and who was involved—adds a layer of depth that’s hard to ignore. For instance, if I found out that a collectible from my favorite band was generated by AI, I think my enthusiasm would take a hit. I love the idea of supporting artists whose struggles and triumphs are embedded in their work. The human experience, with all its imperfections, is what makes art relatable and meaningful. I guess it all boils down to personal preference. Some people might find value in the sheer novelty of AI art, while others, like myself, might lean towards the emotionally charged creations of human hands. I think it’s fascinating how our preferences can differ so vastly, often shaped by our experiences and values. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this! Have you experienced a similar dilemma with AI-generated art? Or maybe you’ve found something that genuinely moved you, irrespective of its origin? Please share your stories in the comments below!
