AI in the visual arts

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Opportunities, risks and changes

The study“KI UND BILDENDE KUNST” by the Stiftung Kunstfonds and the Initiative Urheberrecht was published yesterday. It sheds light on the profound changes that artificial intelligence (AI) is bringing about in the world of fine art.

We briefly summarize the results here. You can find more information in our AI Compass.

The study results at a glance

Ambivalent attitude of artists

The results show a split opinion among artists:

  • 42% have already had experience with AI tools
  • 43% see potential for new art forms and techniques
  • At the same time, the majority are concerned about disadvantages

Opportunities and risks

AI offers new creative possibilities and can make work processes more efficient. However, many artists also fear negative effects:

  • 56% expect loss of revenue due to AI
  • 53% see their livelihood at risk
  • 45% fear a devaluation of art

Demands of the artists

Clear regulations are required to protect the interests of artists:

  • 87% require explicit consent to use their works for AI training
  • 91% demand financial compensation for this use
  • 85% advocate mandatory labeling of AI-created products

Change in the job profile

The professional image of artists is undergoing profound change. It requires:

  • Adaptation to new technologies
  • Development of new business models
  • Increased focus on ethical and legal issues
  • Acquisition of new skills, especially in the area of media competence

What does this mean in concrete terms for professional development?

  1. New competencies and skills:
    • Artists must increasingly familiarize themselves with AI technologies and learn to use them as creative tools.
    • The development of media skills is essential in order to understand and critically reflect on the possibilities and limitations of AI tools.
    • Technical skills in dealing with AI systems and software are becoming more important.
  2. Changing the creative process:
    • AI is increasingly being used as a source of inspiration and generator of ideas, which is changing the idea generation process.
    • The collaboration between man and machine leads to new hybrid art forms and possibilities of expression.
    • Artists must learn to find the balance between AI support and their own artistic expression.
  3. Ethical and legal challenges:
    • Artists must increasingly deal with copyright issues, especially with regard to the use of their works for AI training.
    • It is becoming more important to develop and communicate a clear position on the ethical use of AI in art.
  4. New business models and marketing strategies:
    • Artists need to find innovative ways to emphasize the value of their human creativity in an AI-driven market.
    • The development of niche markets and the emphasis on the uniqueness of human art are becoming more important.
    • New possibilities for personalization and interactivity through AI can lead to new business models.
  5. Increased interdisciplinarity:
    • Collaboration with technology experts, data scientists and AI developers is becoming increasingly relevant.
    • Artists must learn to work in interdisciplinary teams and combine their artistic vision with technological know-how.
  6. Focus on human qualities:
    • Emphasizing emotions, personal experiences and cultural context in art is becoming more important in order to differentiate it from AI-generated art.
    • Artists must place greater emphasis on their ability to interpret, contextualize and emotionally resonate.
  7. Continuous further training:
    • Lifelong learning is essential to keep pace with rapid technological developments.
    • Artists must remain flexible and be prepared to constantly adapt and acquire new skills.
  8. Critical examination of technology:
    • It is becoming more important to develop a reflective attitude towards AI and to critically question its influence on art.
    • Artists can play an important role in the social discussion about the impact of AI.

Demand for better information

The study emphasizes the need for better information on the opportunities and risks of AI:

  • Students at educational institutions such as art colleges and academies should be made aware of the opportunities and risks of AI. One aspect, for example, is the influence that the use of AI can have on the maturation and development of one’s own artistic expression.
  • In addition, awareness campaigns about the opportunities and risks of AI and the strengthening of media skills among visual artists are needed.

Press conference from 24.06.2024

In yesterday’s press conference, it was emphasized that generative AI will have a massive impact on the entire art industry, including curating, catalog design and audio guide production. In some areas, such as photography or translation, 30-40% of commissions have already been replaced by AI or reduced in fee.

The experts emphasize the need for further research into the structural interaction of the art ecosystem in order to create reliable forecasts and derive timely action steps. They also emphasize the social relevance of the visual arts, especially for the development of media literacy and awareness of authenticity.

Politically, initial approaches such as the AI Act were welcomed, which addresses issues such as transparency and labeling, but is not yet considered far-reaching enough.

Summary

The study underlines the need for a balanced approach to AI in the arts. It is important to seize the opportunities while protecting the rights and creative freedom of artists. Fair regulation and continuous education will be crucial to shaping the future of visual arts in the AI age.

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