The artist using AI image generation explores universal imagery. Knowledge of the global visual universe, the ability to move through art history, to uncover deep connections, is a key skill to make ad hoc use of the “planetary palette” of AI image generation. However, the question of rights must also be addressed. In a sense, generative AI “steals the soul” of the greatest artists and makes a random synthesis of them, generating a monster unsurpassed in execution quality, versatility, speed, and of course price. There are lawsuits being challenged by artists and publishers against the tech giants who have used their works to train generative AI. We do not know what the outcome of these lawsuits will be, but they certainly will not stop technological development or undermine the dominant position of the artificial intelligence giants. If we are to begin seriously analysing this area, it is contemporary art, as a valuable form of critical thinking, that must take the first steps. On the other hand, research and influences from other artists converge in the work of every artist; the work of art is a crossroads of deep connections that AI image generation can enhance. With artificial intelligence, the artist can play with art history just as the artists of the Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassicism did: ancient forms are reborn in new forms following technological evolution, as has always happened.
Italiano