As the AP Art History course is filled with works of artistic mastery, imagine one day encountering an AI Mona Lisa. It would certainly spark discourse over what defines the substance of artistic expression. 

The topic of whether AI-curated art should be labeled as genuine art is an incredibly subjective concept. While some may find the art curated through AI as ravishing and undeniably alluring, it does not contain the value of human touch that makes art relatable. AI art insults the amount of effort put into various pieces by artists who had to independently come up with their idea for the art and complete it through hours of tedious effort.

AI art lacks the vital connection between the art and the creator, losing the story behind the art. Anyone can put a thoughtless command into the generator and receive a piece of art through sources like Hotpot.ai or Craiyon. 

“AI is navigating new territories and definitely able to imitate things people have created, but I personally believe art is about human connection, which is what I love about art history,” History and Social Sciences Instructor Anna Robinson said.

The concept of algorithms generating art is nowhere near as personal or unique as traditional art that is derived from human emotion and creativity. AI can certainly be utilized to enhance one’s artwork, but it is not the equivalent of an artist. Furthermore, since AI art is easily manipulated, this calls attention to the unethical nature of AI, given derivative works are incredibly common. This technologically curated art lacks personality and detracts from the evolving creative journey of an artist making art by hand. AI is trained to replicate and borrow from pre-existing works, which minimizes the innovation commemorated in typical art, rather than providing new perspectives. 

“I appreciate art for different reasons, as it helps me understand things or tap into something I need at a particular moment,” Robinson said. “I just can’t imagine AI art fulfilling the same purpose.”

Art takes immense amounts of time and effort, with its value lying within its material and deeper meaning. AI art does not fit this traditional definition; while it pushes boundaries, it ultimately discredits the work human artists are capable of completing.