Grand Valley State University Art Museum will soon be wrapping up the exhibition, “Stories Reimagined: Artistic Narrative in the Digital Age,” which features art using technology as a medium. Some artists use animation or augmented reality, and one exhibit by
The exhibit features two images from Professor Corey Anton’s book “A.Eye Candy: nton’s book was published in 2023, and is composed of images created with specific artificial-intelligence prompts. Art Museum staff say the exhibit aims to encourage viewers to consider the role and ethics of AI artwork.
Joel Zwart, the exhibition’s curator, said the idea of technology in art can be a polarizing topic, and that this exhibit was created for conversation.
“There has been a lot of interest in the exhibition, especially since many are learning to navigate the use of new technologies in all aspects of our lives, including the visual arts,” Zwart said.
The use of AI in art can be a controversial subject. Art student Marisol Escamilla said AI has no place in art, and that it can be damaging to human expression.
“(AI) takes away the emotions that are conveyed in artwork,” Escamilla said. “It takes away technique and perspectives.”
Escamilia added she thinks AI can be helpful when used as a tool, but damaging when used as an artistic instrument. However, fellow art student Miya Obranovic has a different perspective on AI in artwork.
“I think people should be able to express themselves no matter what avenue they take, whether that be AI or their personal hands,” Obranovic said.
Foreseeing potential controversy, the exhibit offers a hands-on approach that allows guests to create their own AI image. An interactive station using AI image-generating software is available for gallery attendees, alongside notes on ethics.
“Our goal is to get visitors to think about the consequences of using AI, especially in the creative fields,” Zwart said. “How do we balance an amazing creative opportunity with ethical behavior and potential environmental consequences?”
While Obranovic hasn’t had an opportunity to visit the exhibition yet, she said she hopes to get to the museum before the exhibit ends.
“It would be interesting to try AI out for myself,” Obranovic said. “It would make me even more open to the idea.”
Since the exhibit’s goal is to create conversation, the Art Museum hosted a panel discussion last week titled, “Artificial Intelligence and Ethics in the Humanities.” The faculty discussion followed the conflicted path AI is leading society down, including artists.
Zwart added he has received an influx of people visiting the exhibit because of interest in what technology has to offer.
“There has been a lot of interest in the exhibition, especially since many are learning to navigate the use of new technologies in all aspects of our lives, including the visual arts,” Zwart said.
The exhibit will remain open to the public until Nov. 7.
