Get ready for a groundbreaking and inspiring journey through the world of art and artificial intelligence! MoMA presents an extraordinary series that delves deep into the intersection of creativity and technology, showcasing the innovative ways artists are using AI to transform the art world. This video serie explore the possibilities, the ethical concerns, and the history of technology’s influence on art, all while celebrating the visionaries who are pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

In the MoMA Magazine video serie, “How to See: AI and the Future of Art”, the author discusses the latest episode of the How to See series, which features a conversation with artists Kate Crawford, Trevor Paglen, and Refik Anadol.

These artists are exploring the ways AI and machine learning algorithms are impacting artmaking and are challenging traditional approaches.

Kate Crawford highlights the “generative turn,” where AI is rapidly transforming fields such as illustration, film directing, and publishing.

Trevor Paglen investigates the ethical implications of AI and machine learning systems that surveil our daily lives and stresses the unique perspective artists bring to the conversation.

Refik Anadol sees AI as an invaluable tool for artists, and in his project “Unsupervised,” he challenges a machine learning algorithm to interpret the history of modern art using only MoMA’s collection data and create its own art.

Curators Paola Antonelli and Michelle Kuo provide historical context and insights into the future of AI and art, raising existential questions and exploring the evolving landscape of art and technology.

Artists aim to intervene in technological processes and explore existential questions, while curators provide historical context.

Key Points:

1. Artists experimenting with AI: Artists are leveraging AI to break new ground in creative expression and redefine conventional artistic practices. By manipulating algorithms and engaging with AI as a tool, they aim to challenge the ways technology is used, often subverting its original purpose to produce unique and thought-provoking artwork.
2. AI and ethical concerns: The use of AI in art raises important questions about biases, oversimplification, and the commodification of human experiences. Artists like Trevor Paglen expose the inherent biases within AI systems and explore the real-world implications of these flaws. The challenge lies in understanding the complexities and multiple meanings within single images, which AI might oversimplify.
3. Historical context of technology in art: Throughout history, artists and designers have been fascinated by technology, exploring its impact on art and society. From the Industrial Revolution to the digital age, artists have adapted to new tools, redefining art and its role in an ever-changing world. Examples include Marcel Duchamp’s ready-made art and the Machine Art exhibition at MoMA in 1934.
4. Power dynamics and AI: The increasing deployment of AI by large corporations raises concerns about the potential consolidation of wealth and political power, leading to greater societal inequalities. While AI has the potential to help solve complex problems, the context in which it is used and the forces that drive its adoption must be carefully considered and monitored.
5. Alternative uses of AI in art: Artists are interested in exploring unconventional uses of AI, moving away from traditional work-oriented applications to focus on deeper human connections and collective consciousness. By tapping into collective memories and creating collective dreams, artists can challenge the idea of AI solely as a tool for productivity and efficiency, offering new perspectives on the relationship between humans and technology.