Sep. 22, 2021

Artificial Intelligence’s capabilities are endless, according to the recently released Final Report of the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence. From security to the art industry, AI is proving to be a major disruptor. But how exactly is art created by AI impacting issues in emerging technology? The answer may lie in a class of machine learning called Generative Adversarial Networks, or GANs.

Generative Adversarial Networks

GANs have been used in everything from creating deepfake photography to experimental art. GANs are a system of neural networks that teach themselves through their experimentation, rather than being programmed by humans. The computer uses two different processes to generate images. One is a database of existing images from the real world. The second produces images that try to trick the first into thinking they constitute an example of what it knows. Eventually, the second process develops a more convincing image, similar to the database example. With the recent surge in art created by A.I., the conversation has now become who is considered an artist and what images are “real” and authentic. That has sparked much conversation and has enormous implications across many fields in emerging technology, to include ethics, intellectual property, and information security.

The Future of Fine Art

As artificial intelligence continues to advance in its ability to think independently, the idea is that the same machine used to create pieces 60 years ago, can now create just as stunning organic content without the help of humans. That raises questions. According to SensiLab, an academic space fostering innovation technology, “The use of deep learning and other AI techniques to make art raises all sorts of interesting ethical questions: who is the real author of the work? How should the art or creativity in the work be attributed? How much does the final image rely on training data, typically sourced from human artworks? How are existing laws regarding copyright, attribution, prior art, authorship, etc. placed to deal with AI art?”

These technologies used in creating art have the capabilities to advance other technologies, create mis and disinformation and contribute to art, poetry, and other creative endeavors. The uses are broad and can be used for benevolent or nefarious purposes. Overall, GANs are an emerging technology to watch and one that can’t be ignored.

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