Artificial intelligence has been around for a while, but AI-generated artwork took off in 2022. With its growing presence and use, AI has proven to be a strong but controversial tool in the art world. Many people don’t understand how it’s used and have questions like, “Is it art?” Is it unethical? And who get the credit?
There’s no denying that artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming more ubiquitous in the art industry and beyond—these algorithmic concoctions are doing everything from winning art contests to becoming the centerpiece of shows at prestigious institutions like the MoMA. In a world where technology is always getting better and digital methods are used to make a lot of art, it makes sense that new forms of digital production would pop up. Whether the ethical consequences are positive or negative, AI-generated artwork is here and growing.
AI art is still in its infancy in the public, but there are a variety of online forums for people who like creating it. From Instagram accounts devoted to sharing and pushing AI artists with creative ideas to tiny online forums and Discord channels, there is a vibrant online community for individuals who like computational art.
We’ll look back at some of the most prominent AI art technologies of 2022, as well as the artists that utilize them. But first, it’s vital to understand what AI art is and how AI got its start in the art world.
The first prototype of OpenAI’s DALLE, named after Salvador Dal and the Pixar robot WALL-E, was launched in 2021. Its long awaited DALLE 2 was eventually published in September 2022, with a slew of upgrades, including more realistic and accurate pictures, 400% higher resolution, and preventions in place to prevent damaging images from being made. DALLE 2 is another text-to-image generator that produces stunning outcomes.
While AI artists waited for the return of DALLE in the form of DALLE 2, other AI art generators gained popularity. The Night Cafe by Vincent van Gogh inspired Angus Russell’s NightCafe Creator, a 2019 app. According to NightCafe Studio, “we design tools that enable anyone—regardless of skill level—to experience the gratification, therapeutic benefits, and exhilaration of producing great, one-of-a-kind art.” The team is committed to giving everyone access to creative production rather than “making artists redundant.” NightCafe Studio has online forums and a blog on their website where people can learn how to use AI art generators. In reaction to DALLE’s popularity, they interviewed artist zenElan in February 2022 to learn his techniques to crafting magical artwork.