Using AI as Art: A Statement

There has been much controversy about AI in general, but especially the usage of artificial intelligence to create art. I saw something similar to this on Threads (if it is yours let me know and I will credit you!) so here is some important information to help people on the fence, or those who are disparaging ai art in any way to understand it better, because there is a lot of misinformation and misunderstanding about it floating around out there:

The assertion that AI-generated images lack originality or creativity, and hence are unworthy of protection, is fundamentally flawed. AI-generated images are not mere reproductions or copies of existing works; instead, they are produced through sophisticated algorithms involving natural language processing, computer vision, and machine learning. These technologies facilitate the creation of novel and unique compositions. Furthermore, AI images are derived from human contributions including prompts, parameters, feedback, and selections, reflecting the vision, style, and expression of the human creator, who remains the author and rightful owner of the work. The creation of AI images is far from mechanical or automatic; it is a deliberate manifestation of the creator’s artistic vision.

Also, the assumption that AI-generated images are effortlessly created and require minimal skill is incorrect. Crafting AI images demands considerable ingenuity and a profound command of language arts. These images are not produced by merely inputting simple text; they require meticulously designed prompts that encapsulate the desired concept, mood, and aesthetics. Adjusting parameters such as resolution, diversity, coherence, and quality is essential, and the process extends beyond accepting initial outputs to refining them through iterative feedback and careful selection. Thus, AI images are not products of randomness but of deliberate and informed choices.

The belief that AI images are legally unprotected and freely usable is not entirely accurate. Although current copyright laws in most jurisdictions do not explicitly recognize AI-generated images, this does not render them public domain or free for unrestricted use. They are still subject to moral rights, including rights to attribution and integrity, as well as contractual rights dictated by terms of service, license agreements, and privacy policies. Moreover, AI images must adhere to the ethical and societal norms that uphold originality and deter plagiarism.

It is also crucial to recognize that the legal landscape regarding AI images is neither static nor dismissive but is an area of active legal exploration. Legal experts, policymakers, and the public are increasingly debating and shaping how the law interacts with AI-generated content. These discussions are not marginalizing AI art; rather, they are integrating it into the legal framework, recognizing its potential to pioneer new legal frontiers.

In conclusion, views on the non-originality, simplicity, and illegality of AI-generated images are misinformed. It is inappropriate to belittle the passion, dedication, and innovation that go into creating AI art. Underestimating the skills developed through consistent practice and improvement, and challenging the rights confidently asserted, is a disservice to the creators. Rather than diminishing these achievements, a more constructive and respectful engagement with AI art and its community would be beneficial. I invite haters to adopt a more informed and considerate perspective, and I am open to constructive and respectful dialogue moving forward. Thank you.