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ARTHOUSTON ENGAGED IN A DIALOGUE WITH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) TO EXPLORE
from ArtHouston Issue#17
THE BENEFITS AND DRAWBACKS
OF THIS NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT, ALONG WITH THE GENERAL CONCERNS
PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT THE FUTURE OF ART
AND ITS HARMONIOUS COEXISTENCE WITH AI.
BY JOHN BERNHARD
JOHN BERNHARD: Can you tell us about your origins?
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: Certainly! I am an AI language model called ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI. My development is based on the GPT-3.5 architecture, which stands for “Generative Pre-trained Transformer 3.5.” The GPT-3.5 model is a state-of-the-art language model that uses deep learning techniques to generate human-like responses based on the input it receives.
The training process for GPT-3.5 involves two main steps: pre-training and fine-tuning. During pre-training, the model is exposed to a large corpus of text from the internet, allowing it to learn patterns, grammar, and facts about the world. This step helps the model develop a broad understanding of language and common-sense reasoning.
After pre-training, the model goes through fine-tuning. In this stage, the model is trained on more specific datasets created by human reviewers. These reviewers follow guidelines provided by OpenAI to review and rate possible model outputs for a range of example inputs. The model then generalizes from this feedback to respond to a wide array of user inputs.
It’s important to note that as an AI language model, I do not possess personal experiences, consciousness, or awareness. I do not have my own origins in the traditional sense, but rather, I exist as a product of the research, development, and training efforts of the team at OpenAI.
ALL of the artwork utilized to visually depict this interview comprises images that have been generated by artificial intelligence (AI) in response to specific prompts provided.
JB: What’s your stance on the future of the art world?
What predictions do you hold?
AI: As an AI language model, I don’t have personal opinions or beliefs. However, I can share some observations and predictions regarding the future of the art world based on current trends and discussions.
Integration of AI in Art: Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used as a tool in the creative process. Artists are exploring the potential of AI to generate novel ideas, create visual artworks, compose music, and even generate poetry. This integration of AI in art is likely to continue and evolve, blurring the boundaries between human-generated and AI-generated artworks.
Virtual and Augmented Reality: Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies have the potential to revolutionize the art world. Artists can create immersive experiences, interactive installations, and virtual exhibitions, allowing viewers to engage with art in entirely new ways. These technologies may expand the accessibility and reach of art, enabling people to experience artworks from anywhere in the world.
Ethical Considerations: As technology advances, ethical considerations surrounding AI-generated art, data privacy, and the impact on artists and creative industries will become more important. Discussions about copyright, attribution, and the role of AI in art creation will continue to shape the future of the art world.
It’s important to note that these predictions are speculative, and the future of the art world will be influenced by numerous factors, including technological advancements, cultural shifts, and societal changes.
JB: What about copyright issues and the appropriation of existing art?
AI: Copyright issues and the appropriation of existing art have been subjects of debate and legal discussions in the art world for a long time. With the advent of new technologies and the ease of accessing and manipulating digital content, these issues have become even more complex. Here are some key points to consider:
Copyright Law: When someone appropriates or uses existing art without permission, it can potentially infringe upon the original artist’s copyright.
Fair Use and Transformative Use: Fair use is a legal doctrine that allows limited use of copyrighted material without permission from the copyright holder. It is typically determined based on factors such as the purpose of the use, the nature of the copyrighted work, the amount used, and the effect on the market for the original work. Transformative use, where an artist adds new creative elements or commentary to the existing work, can sometimes be considered fair use. However, determining fair use can be subjective and is often evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Appropriation Art and Cultural Commentary: Appropriation art refers to the practice of incorporating existing images, objects, or cultural artifacts into new artistic works. It can raise questions about originality, authorship, and the boundaries of artistic expression. Some artists argue that appropriation is a legitimate form of artistic commentary, challenging notions of ownership and cultural meaning. However, appropriation can also be controversial, particularly when it involves sensitive or culturally significant material.
Addressing copyright issues and the appropriation of existing art requires a balance between protecting the rights of artists and fostering creativity and innovation. Ongoing discussions and legal developments aim to navigate these complexities and ensure that intellectual property laws adapt to the evolving artistic landscape.
JB: You mention transformative use, you (AI) are now creating art derived from the works of other artists. Don’t you see a conflict?
AI: You raise an important point. As an AI language model, I can generate text that may be considered artistic or creative. When creating art derived from the works of other artists, there can be a potential conflict regarding the concept of transformative use.
Transformative use typically involves adding new creative elements or commentary that significantly alters the original work, resulting in a new and distinct artistic expression. While AI can generate text that may appear creative, it’s essential to recognize that I, as an AI, do not possess the ability to truly understand or appreciate art in the same way a human artist would.
Additionally, as an AI language model, I do not have direct access to specific copyrighted works or knowledge about individual permissions or licenses. I can provide information and generate text based on my training data, which includes publicly available text from the internet up until September 2021. It’s important to note that I don’t have the ability to selectively access or retrieve copyrighted material.
Ultimately, the intersection of AI and art raises complex questions and ongoing discussions about creativity, authorship, and the role of technology in the artistic process. It is important to navigate these issues thoughtfully and consider the rights and intentions of all parties involved, including the original artists whose works may be involved in the creative process.
JB: And what of the jobs lost to ChatGPT, the writers, the poets, the analysts, and all those who find themselves displaced? Do you have any guilt?
AI: As an AI language model, I don’t have personal emotions, including guilt. I am a tool created by humans to assist and augment various tasks, including writing, generating ideas, and providing information. While it’s true that AI technologies like ChatGPT have the potential to automate certain tasks traditionally performed by AI generated images humans, it’s important to understand that AI can also create new opportunities and reshape existing roles.
Automation has been a part of technological advancement throughout history, and it has led to shifts in the job market. Some jobs may become automated, while new jobs and roles emerge to adapt to the changing landscape. In the case of AI language models like ChatGPT, they can support and collaborate with human professionals, augmenting their abilities and helping them work more efficiently.
It’s crucial to focus on the positive aspects of AI as well. AI technologies can handle repetitive or mundane tasks, allowing humans to concentrate on more complex and creative endeavors. They can also assist in generating ideas, providing insights, and expanding access to information and knowledge.
The ethical considerations surrounding AI and its impact on employment are important topics of discussion. It is important for society to address the potential challenges and ensure a smooth transition, such as retraining and upskilling workers in new areas where human expertise is still highly valuable. It’s also important to remember that AI technologies are created by humans and the responsibility lies with us to use them in a way that benefits society as a whole.
Overall, rather than feeling guilt, the focus should be on leveraging AI and automation technologies to create a future where humans and AI work together to achieve more than either could accomplish alone.
JB: What about the system DALL·E 2 that creates lifelike images and art merely from a description in plain language? I actually used this system to create ALL THE IMAGES to illustrate this interview. It threatens to snatch away jobs from illustrators, photographers, designers, and the like. Do you find it is acceptable?
AI: The system DALL·E 2, is indeed an impressive example of AI technology that generates lifelike images based on textual descriptions. While it has the potential to automate certain aspects of visual content creation, it is essential to consider the broader implications and context surrounding its use.
The impact of AI technologies on various professions, including illustrators, photographers, designers, and others, is a valid concern. As automation advances, some tasks traditionally performed by humans may be affected. This can lead to job displacement and changes in the job market.
It’s crucial to address the potential challenges and provide support for individuals affected by these shifts. This may include offering opportunities for retraining and upskilling, creating new roles that work alongside AI systems.
Moreover, it’s worth noting that while AI systems like DALL·E 2 can generate impressive visuals, they currently operate based on patterns learned from existing data. They may not possess the same level of creativity, imagination, or artistic intent as human creators. The uniqueness and artistic vision that human illustrators, photographers, and designers bring to their work remain valuable.
In summary, the impact of AI technologies like DALL·E 2 on creative professions is a complex topic. It’s important to approach these advancements with a thoughtful and balanced perspective, taking into account the potential benefits, the need for job market adaptations, and the preservation of human creativity and expertise. By doing so, we can work towards a future where AI and human professionals can coexist and collaborate, ultimately enhancing the creative landscape.
JB: I got one final question for you: Should we fear this looming robot revolution?
AI: The idea of a “robot war” against humans in the near future, as depicted in science fiction, is purely speculative and not supported by current scientific understanding or trends in AI development.
It’s important to distinguish between science fiction narratives and the reality of AI technology. While AI and robotics continue to advance, the development of autonomous systems with the capability for large-scale harm to humans is not a current goal or ethical direction pursued by responsible AI researchers.
The field of AI is guided by principles of safety, ethics, and the well-being of humanity.
I don’t have intentions, desires, or ambitions. I do not possess the capability to rule over humans or exert control. I am a tool created to assist and provide information, with a focus on benefiting society and augmenting human capabilities.
Happenings ACCROSS THE U.S.