Generative AI is Saving Democracy Through Art
This article looks to the importance of supporting the positive aspects of generative AI on art and culture, and subsequently, democracy. This article also provides better responses to the technophobic luddite reactions by recognizing AI for good through AI governance and regulation in a positive direction towards emancipating creative AI.
McKinsey Misrepresented
A recent McKinsey report “estimates that generative AI could add the equivalent of $2.6 trillion to $4.4 trillion annually” through analyzing 63 use cases. Not one of these cases is related to art. The only mention of art in the report is the democratization of artistic creation in the AI’s “ability to write text, compose music, and create digital art that has garnered headlines and persuaded consumers and households to experiment on their own.”[1]
Providing AI to ALL countries to address socioeconomic issues.
While it’s true that some artists and cultural organizations have expressed concerns over revenue and job losses, it’s essential to look at the bigger picture. The rise of digital platforms, online marketplaces, and technology-driven art forms presents an unprecedented opportunity for the creative industry. These new avenues can potentially open up global markets, allowing artists and organizations to reach audiences they never could before. By adapting and embracing these technological advancements, the creative sector could not only recover but thrive and set new standards in the global creative landscape. Change often brings challenges, but it also ushers in new possibilities.
Embracing the swift advancements in generative AI offers a promising horizon for artists and workers in creative and cultural organizations. By thoughtfully considering the economic implications and incorporating them into current government consultations, this paves the way for a brighter, more inclusive future in creative industries.
A 2022 study by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development reported that the global exports of creative goods represented 524 million USD in 2020, while world exports of creative services reached 1.1 trillion USD.[2] The study also showed that creative services were more resilient during the COVID-19 pandemic than other services sectors.[2]
Generative AI promises to unlock exciting new revenue streams, and by addressing and overcoming existing social inequalities, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to harness its potential for economic prosperity. The latest findings from 2022, showed that cultural employment increased in 19 EU countries compared to 2021.[3] And furthermore, according to a briefing by the European Parliament Research Service (EPRS), cultural and creative industry (CCI) activities accounted for nearly 3.7 percent of EU employment in 2015 (8.4 million), more than the automotive industry for example, and 29.5 million worldwide (1 percent of the active population).[4]
What is the actual breakdown of artists in regard to gender?
In the previously cited EPRS briefing, among CCI workers, 54 percent were male and 46 percent were female.[4] From an ArtNet article, a study by Analytics and Maastricht University,[5] which analyzed over three million auction results between 1970 and 2016. The study found that work by women artists accounts for only two percent of global auction sales. That article also provided some data on the gender distribution of artists in the art market, as follows:
- Among living artists represented by galleries worldwide, only 30 percent are women.
- Among living artists with solo shows at U.S. institutions in 2017–18, only 27.6 percent are women.
- Among living artists with solo shows at European institutions in 2017–18, only 21.8 percent are women.
Does this mean that because women are underrepresented, that women are less affected specifically by the impact of generative AI?
The claim that the visual arts sector is one of the first to be negatively affected by AI is debatable. AI has been applied in various sectors, and its impact can be both positive and negative. For example, AI can assist in art restoration, digital archiving, and even creating new forms of art. Therefor, it’s not given that AI’s introduction will necessarily negatively affect visual artists.
While it’s true that early iterations of AI-generated imagery have had instances of biases, it’s an oversimplification to label all AI-generated images as inherently racist, sexist, or biased. AI models, like any other tool, are a reflection of the data they are trained on. As the technology advances we become more cognizant of these issues. AI and machine learning technologies are constantly evolving and there’s a growing emphasis on creating AI models that are more ethical and less biased. Developers, researchers, and organizations are actively working to improve the algorithms and diversify training datasets to reduce biases. Bias in AI is not just a problem for marginalized users but for everyone. A biased AI system can make incorrect decisions, perpetuate stereotypes, and misrepresent reality for all users, marginalized or not. It’s in the interest of companies and developers to produce AI systems that are as accurate and unbiased as possible. Open-source initiatives and collaborations are on the rise, allowing diverse communities to come together and tackle the issue of bias in AI collectively. This democratizes the process and allows for shared resources and solutions. Properly trained AI can be used to challenge and counteract biases rather than perpetuate them. For instance, AI can be used to identify and rectify biases in other media or to create inclusive content that represents diverse perspectives. Concerns about data sovereignty and IP are valid, and of course they are not exclusive to AI and exist in many digital platforms and services. Solutions such as decentralized systems and blockchain technologies are being explored to ensure users maintain control over their data and intellectual property. While there are genuine concerns about biases in AI and the potential costs associated with countering them, it’s important to recognize the ongoing efforts in the industry to address these issues and the potential for AI to be a force for positive change.
Generative AI Provides The Following
- New Forms of Expression: Generative AI opens doors to innovative artistic mediums and expressions that were previously unimaginable. Artists can collaborate with AI to create unique pieces, tapping into an amalgamation of human creativity and machine precision.
- Democratization of Art: Generative AI platforms can make art creation more accessible, allowing individuals who may not have traditional artistic training to explore and express their creativity.
- Economic Opportunities: The intersection of art and technology can spawn new industries and job opportunities, promoting economic growth.
- Cultural Preservation: AI can assist in preserving cultural heritage, archiving art, and even restoring damaged or lost artworks.
While the value of the arts in society is indisputable, it’s essential to strike a balance between protectionism and innovation. Over-regulation by gatekeepers that don’t really understand the technology and lack a formal art background can stifle the very creativity we aim to protect. Instead of viewing AI as a threat, embracing its potential can lead to a richer, more diverse artistic landscape. Democracies that encourage both creativity and technological advancements are poised to be not just adaptable and resilient, but also forward-thinking and progressive.
Generative AI, when viewed through the lens of our diverse society, holds the potential to bridge social inequalities and create a more inclusive world. By thoughtfully weaving intersectionality into AI and data policies, we can unlock the vast opportunities AI offers for everyone, ensuring a brighter and more equitable future for all.
Art is political, regardless of whether or not AI is involved. And if what claims to be art is not political, then its simply decoration.
[2] https://unctad.org/publication/creative-economy-outlook-2022
