The historical spread of artificial intelligence could bring about a radical change in the art world, paving the way for new currents capable of altering the very coordinates of contemporary art, which today is too marginal to take the lead in the dramatic cultural transformation ahead. The contemporary art context currently consists of a proliferation of individual figures in which it is difficult to identify shared movements comparable to those of the early twentieth century, such as Futurism, which involved artists and thinkers from various disciplines. Contemporary art is increasingly a personal phenomenon, often with fascinating outcomes, but aimed at a very small audience. The contemporary artist is alone and though their work speaks to a select few who understand. An art “extended to artificial intelligence” would not be confined to the art world but would be contaminated with the other worlds impacted by AI. AI could be used to develop multidisciplinary technological exhibitions and museums, cultural and educational platforms in virtual reality, augmented reality, the metaverse, and digital works that we cannot yet imagine. The advent of generative AI platforms has all the characteristics to revolutionize the visual arts, introducing new protagonists and profoundly changing the profile of the artist. AI does not limit its impact to contemporary art, but involves the entire creative industries market: from graphic design to video art, from immersive installations to special effects. As has always been the case at key moments in history, the role, goals, and skills of the artist are brought back into play, as is the nature of art making. The historical phase of the formation of Homo Extensus is a great opportunity for contemporary art to regain a relevant role in society, provided that artists set themselves a mission that transcends the sphere of art. It is possible to envision an “Ars extensa,” an art that is more “extensive” than contemporary art.
Italiano