How do you define art? This centuries-old question is constantly brought back to the fore, particularly at times when artists find new ways to create. It was the case with the advent of photography in the 19th century – and it is the case with art where the process is aided or fully executed by AI models today.
It displays unforgivable ignorance of the innovative and fascinating ways these artists create with the use of new technology
Last week, auction house Christie’s caused a huge stir in art circles, after announcing on social media its first auction offering works exclusively created with AI. Leading the line-up of AI artists are Refik Anadol, Claire Silver, Pindar Van Arman, and Holly Herndon and Mat Dryhurst. It is expected the works of art going on auction will raise upwards of £600,000.
What followed was an almost immediate reaction from more traditional artists in the form of a letter petitioning Christie’s to cancel the upcoming auction.
Get Britain's best politics newsletters
Register to get The Spectator's insight and opinion straight to your inbox. You can then read two free articles each week.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in