Will AI art replace traditional art?

Everyone is talking about artificial intelligence these days. Some fear it, avoid it, or even sabotage it, while others are enthralled and utilize it as a tool effectively. Let's delve into how artificial intelligence might shape the future of the art world, what lies ahead for artists, and whether the advancement of AI could replace society's need for traditional artists.

Spoiler alert – there's nothing to fear. 

But for a better understanding, let's first take a brief look back.

The advent of the camera was a monumental event in the art world.

In 1839, the creative community was rocked by the news that "At a meeting of the Paris Academy of Sciences, Louis Jacques Mandé Daguerre presented his invention to the world - the daguerreotype." Photography could replicate the surrounding reality with incredible accuracy. In those times (16th-19th century), painting adhered to the ideal of timeless beauty, and anatomical precision was of utmost importance. Thus, the emergence of photography challenged the principles of traditional academic painting and, in general, left the concept of "timeless beauty" in the past.

The reaction from artists was mixed. Some were genuinely outraged, believing that photography devalued the creations of art and the artistic skill that took years to learn.

Others used cameras but did not openly display them. For example, Monet owned four cameras but reacted irritably to the suggestion that he used a photograph of the parliament for one of his famous Thames paintings.

Then there were those who enthusiastically embraced the invention. Edgar Degas actively explored this new art form, collected photographs, and incorporated techniques characteristic of photography in his works.

This innovation challenged the prevailing views of painting as the sole form of art and led to the emergence of new artistic movements. Today, contemporary art is represented by various directions, from abstract expressionism to street art. And photography as an art form occupies its own niche.

The next event that unsettled artists happened in the 1980s when Wacom released its first graphic tablet. This led to many discussions in art circles about the emergence of "computer art." Some embraced it, enjoying being at the forefront of technology, while others felt it signaled the end of traditional art. Looking back, it's clear that while it did change the role of traditional art, especially in more commercial spheres like illustration, it also led to the birth of a new genre - "digital art." However, the value of paintings created with traditional materials didn't diminish; instead, they gained even more appreciation and reverence.

Does this sound familiar? Indeed, today, that astonishing event is AI.

Artificial intelligence is indeed absorbing and redefining the internet.

For artists, this has escalated to existential fear. There's much debate about AI displacing artists and their ability to earn a living.

The real concern should be for "digital artists." For illustrators and graphic designers, artificial intelligence could pose a serious threat. Likely, at some point, AI will have access to all digital data and be trained to a level that makes it impossible for humans to compete.

This danger exists because a print from a digital file is not the same as an original oil painting.

There will always be a market for original, hand-painted art because it is unique. Machines have taken over many things, from manufacturing cars and furniture to almost anything you can think of. But there will always be, for instance, supercars and designer furniture, because over time, people will want the original.

The further we move away from handmade items, the more valuable they become.

People are drawn to physical objects, to owning something unique and tangible. The more the virtual dominates, the more we crave the physicality of art. This isn't just wishful humanism; it's a tangible phenomenon. Despite the growing capabilities and complexities of digital technologies, there's an undeniable surge in the popularity of physical materials in the art world — not just paints, but also ceramics, textiles, and all forms of sculpture, which are experiencing a notable revival.

Today, very few people learn traditional crafts, and if you know how to paint a picture, you're the sole source where someone can acquire a painting. Every artist, regardless of their education, has their own style that sets them apart from others. Style emerges naturally. So, if someone wants what you specifically create, you're the unique source for obtaining it when it comes to original paintings.

Some experts believe that the emergence of AI will lead to a significant resurgence in traditional art.

Therefore, if you're an artist who creates sculptures, oil paintings, ceramics, or textiles, if you love engraving, watercolors, or engaging physical installations, you have nothing to fear.

Instead of thinking about AI as the harbinger of an apocalyptic future, embrace the present and the new future. Consider it as something exciting, a tool to expand your possibilities, or make it your partner in achieving success.

 

At Arts.center, we continuously update and moderate our articles to ensure the relevance and usefulness of the information for our audience. We value the feedback and wishes of our audience and are always ready to consider your ideas for improvement, to make our resource even more valuable and helpful for artists. We strive to be not only a place for commercial success but also a source of inspiration and support for artists who seek to develop their talent and share their vision with the world.