AI-Artist Ai-Da's Alan Turing Portrait Sells for $1.08M, Ignites Debate on Art and Technology
November 7, 2024The auction concluded on November 7, 2024, with the portrait being purchased by an undisclosed buyer, far exceeding Sotheby’s initial estimate of 120,000 to 180,000 euros.
Ai-Da's work aims to provoke discussions about the implications of emerging technologies and their societal impact, particularly in the realm of art.
However, critics argue that Ai-Da's artistic output lacks depth and creativity, often comparing her work to that of a printer rather than genuine artistry.
Jack Dorsey, former CEO of Twitter, expressed worries about the authenticity of AI-generated images, highlighting the need for individuals to verify their reality.
Ai-Da, an AI-powered robot artist, made headlines by selling her painting titled 'A.I. God. Portrait of Alan Turing' for an impressive $1.08 million at a recent Sotheby’s auction.
This auction was part of Sotheby’s Digital Art Sale, which ran online from late October to early November 2024, featuring works from various generative artists.
The final artwork was created using a 3D textured printer, with Ai-Da applying additional marks and textures, aided by human studio assistants to enhance its lifelike quality.
The ongoing debate about AI's role in creativity includes concerns about the commodification of art and the potential displacement of human artists.
Michael Bouhanna from Sotheby’s noted that Ai-Da’s work pushes the boundaries of artistic creation, reflecting a growing interest in the intersection of art and technology.
The portrait of Turing invites viewers to consider the ethical dimensions of AI and computing, echoing the concerns raised by Turing himself during his lifetime.
Alan Turing's life was marked by tragedy, including his conviction under homophobic laws, which ultimately led to his suicide in 1954, adding a poignant layer to Ai-Da's tribute.
The proceeds from the auction will support Ai-Da's ongoing development and research into the ethical implications of AI in the arts.
Summary based on 35 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Nov 8, 2024
First artwork painted by humanoid robot to sell at auction fetches $1.3mBBC News • Nov 7, 2024
AI artwork of Alan Turing sells for record $1.3m at auctionThe Verge • Nov 9, 2024
Sold.BBC News • Nov 7, 2024
AI artwork of Alan Turing sells for record $1.3m at auction