We are at a crossroads in every industry concerning the use of the new technology of AI, artificial intelligence. Many art organizations have drawn a line in the sand concerning the use of this tech. Likewise, the Art Guild of Pacifica board has come to a consensus that we will not allow submissions that were generated by AI into our shows. This prohibition will be included in our calls for entry henceforth. There are many reasons for this.
Why AI is not Art, but “AI Slop.”
In the grand scheme of things, art is important because it is a communication between conscious humans.
Human EXPERIENCES and PERCEPTIONS lead to an INTENT to communicate ideas. Each of these fundamental things inform CHOICES along every step of the art making process. Then, well-learned and practiced SKILLS dictate the quality and the execution of each choice. Every color and every mark made is a choice. The point of focus, the level of contrast, all are choices. In the end, a piece of art is wholly unique because of the accumulated choices of the individual artist.
Aside from not having any experiences, perceptions, nor intent, AI cannot make choices, and has no skills, but simply uses mathematics to statistically narrow which images it will utilize, and how to regurgitate elements from them into an image. This is not art making.
“But we tell the AI agent what we want in the art.”
If a customer says he would like something like a masala chicken at a restaurant, and the chef chooses where to source the ingredients, and how to cook them, is the customer the chef? No they are not. Giving prompts to AI, however carefully chosen, does not make one an artist. We do not feel that AI use is fair to the real artists in our guild who took the time to hone their art, whether in traditional or digital media.
AI Is Theft.
AI is theft of other images created by real artists, who gave no permissions and will receive no compensation for the use of their work. The corporations who create AI apps are being sued for copyright theft, and with good reason. We do not want any part of that.
AI is ecologically devastating.
Lastly, AI data centers require huge amounts of resources, in land/habitat loss, energy waste, and water usage.
There are ways to download these programs and data models onto one’s own computer, which eliminates the need for subscriptions and servers, in effect making the process more eco-friendly. But most people are not using these methods, and it does not negate all the above points concerning art. We mention this here, however, knowing that many of you will use AI in other arenas, and in the hopes that you will pursue this path if you must use AI. At least try to use it wisely, in a way that is kinder to the planet.
We hope you will understand this decision by the board. We believe the vast majority of our members will be best served by this decision, as we continue to showcase and appreciate their amazing, hand-made art! Human artists rely on shows to sell work and build careers, and they deserve not to be crowded out by AI entries. Clear rules keep exhibitions honest, so judges and patrons know every piece represents genuine human effort.