AI Art, are we all Picasso now?

What does it mean to create art in the age of generative AI? On the latest episode of Good Question, we sit down with Inscribe Staff Product Designer Patrick Cusack and CTO Conor Burke to explore the possibilities and challenges of AI-generated art. From its impact on accessibility and collaboration to the enduring importance of human creativity, this conversation highlights the evolving intersection of technology and art. 

The intersection of art and generative AI

• Generative AI has significantly lowered the barrier to entry for creating high-quality artworks, making tools more accessible to a broader audience.
• Patrick shared his journey of using generative AI tools like MidJourney and Runway to create interactive visuals for live music performances. He emphasized how these tools open up new avenues for creativity.

“The important factor is really the taste someone has—what they’re making, the message they’re communicating,” Patrick explained. “In the past, we might have appreciated something for its technical excellence, but now it’s about what you’re saying.”

What’s the role of human creativity?

• We discuss how AI-generated outputs, while impressive, still require human input to convey meaningful messages and personal style.
• Patrick highlighted the importance of using AI as a tool to amplify creativity rather than deferring creativity entirely to AI.
• Patrick also described his workflow, blending tools like MidJourney with interactive software such as Resolume and TouchDesigner to create live visuals that are both innovative and deeply personal.
• He shared the example of Irish artist Aoife O'Dwyer, who uses AI to generate dynamic animations while maintaining her distinct artistic style.

“You can’t defer your creativity to the AI model. You have to work with it,” Patrick said.

Ethical considerations and copyright issues

• The group tackled the challenge of training AI models on copyrighted material, emphasizing the need for collaboration between creators and AI developers.
• Patrick discussed emerging solutions, such as tools to prevent unauthorized training on specific works, while Conor stressed the importance of equitable access to AI technology.

“We’re in a time of disequilibrium between creators and AI developers,” Conor said. “The long-term goal should be rewarding and recognizing creators while enabling innovation.”

Advice for artists exploring AI tools

The panel shared advice for artists who are interested in incorporating generative AI tools within their creative process. 

1. Start small: Experiment with accessible tools like MidJourney or Runway to understand their capabilities.
2. Iterate: Use AI outputs as a foundation and refine them to reflect your personal style.
3. Collaborate: Explore how AI can complement your creative process rather than replacing it.

Generative AI is transforming the way we think about art, creativity, and self-expression. As Patrick aptly put it:

“The important thing when it comes to making AI-generated artworks is the message you have. [Because technical ability is no longer a differentiator], the message becomes the thing that’s most important.”

The episode left listeners inspired by the possibilities AI brings to the art world while emphasizing the enduring importance of human creativity and intent.

P.S. Listen to the end of the podcast to hear our favorite works of art and the episode’s bloopers!

Sources cited 

• Runway’s Gen-3 Alpha Turbo is here and can make AI videos faster than you can type
• Midjourney Makes AI Image Creation Free for Everyone
• AI video startup Runway reportedly trained on ‘thousands’ of YouTube videos without permission
• Aoife O'Dwyer – Art, Illustration & Design