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Once dismissed as a novelty, generative AI is rapidly establishing itself as a legitimate force within the art world. Artists are harnessing the power of platforms like Midjourney and Runway to produce compelling and innovative works, earning recognition online, achieving sales at prestigious auctions (including a notable Bitcoin NFT sale at Sotheby’s for $24,000), and securing coveted spots in galleries and museums.

Jacob Adler, a prominent winner at Runway’s AI Film Festival, views AI as a valuable addition to the creator’s toolbox. The democratization of art creation through AI presents both opportunities and challenges. While it empowers anyone to generate images with ease, it also raises concerns about a potential influx of low-quality content. Henry Daubrez, Google’s inaugural filmmaker in residence, embraces AI’s accessibility as a democratizing force, enabling creative expression for individuals who previously lacked the necessary resources.

However, Daubrez warns against the expectation that AI will automatically churn out masterpieces. Imagination and artistic vision remain indispensable. Beth Frey, an artist with a substantial Instagram following, was initially captivated by the inherent imperfections of early AI-generated art but finds the increasingly polished output less compelling.

Kira Xonorika, another artist, appreciates the element of unpredictability that AI brings to her artistic process, perceiving it as a collaborative partner that enhances her existing ideas. Despite the increasing acceptance of AI-generated art, lingering skepticism persists, with many still associating it with low-quality output. Daubrez emphasizes the mixed emotions of pioneering a new art form amid ongoing doubts, expressing hope that AI will eventually be viewed as a standard creative tool, akin to a camera or a paintbrush.