The recent sale of an AI-generated nude artwork for $340,000 has sparked controversy and anger among people. Despite the high price tag, many are questioning the ethical implications and societal impact of such artwork. The sale has incurred criticism from the anti-AI art crowd, who claim the artwork is ugly and lacks human warmth. However, such criticisms overlook the artistic vision of the creator and the cultural importance of the work. While aesthetics are subjective, the value and significance of AI art are complex and extend beyond mere appearance.
The AI-generated nude artwork in question is part of Robbie Barrat’s collection. Barrat, a well-known figure in the artificial intelligence and generative art community, has been experimenting with machine learning and generative adversarial networks (GANs) since 2018. His early explorations led him to create a series of 300 AI-generated nude art portraits, which have gained significant recognition and become sought-after pieces of crypto art.
The origin story of these AI-generated nude portraits adds to their legacy. The artworks were created for a Tech Summit hosted by Christie’s in 2018, in collaboration with the NFT marketplace SuperRare. They were intended to be given away as part of the event, but many of the pieces were not redeemed, earning them the name “The Lost Robbies.” Only a fraction of the original collection can be found on Barrat’s SuperRare page.
The sale of AI Generated Nude Portrait #7 Frame #111 for $340,000 demonstrates people’s recognition of the historical and cultural significance of these AI artworks. It represents a moment in the evolution of digital and AI art, paving the way for the inventive and era-defining art movement that has emerged. The value of AI art, like any other form of art, is subjective and multifaceted, encompassing aesthetics, narrative, and historical context.
While criticisms of the artwork’s appearance exist, they fail to address the logical inconsistencies of detractors who claim that AI art lacks both human narrative and aesthetic warmth. The crypto art community has rallied in defense of Barrat’s work, recognizing its place in art history and its contribution to the evolving field of digital and AI art.
The sale of AI-generated artwork, including AI Generated Nude Portrait #7 Frame #111, reflects people’s desire to acknowledge and value historical significance. It is an attempt to give history its due and should be seen as part of the ongoing exploration and appreciation of art in all its forms.