TLDR: A new ‘Art in the Age of AI’ course at the University is drawing mixed reactions from students. While some express apprehension about AI replacing human artists and the perceived double standard in AI usage policies, others are cautiously optimistic, viewing it as a tool for creative exploration rather than a threat.
The University is set to launch a new course titled ‘Art in the Age of AI’ this fall, sparking a range of emotions among the student body. The seminar-format course aims to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and artistic expression, but its introduction has been met with both hope and significant apprehension.
Many students voice concerns that the course could pave the way for an influx of generative AI-focused classes, potentially displacing human artists rather than supporting their craft. Mia Lee, an art history junior, articulated this sentiment, stating, ‘I was respectfully angry and a little bit outraged. It’s concerning to me that it could be paving the way for more generative AI-focused classes to worm their way into the school of art.’
Students also highlighted a perceived inconsistency in the University’s stance on AI. They noted that while strict policies govern AI usage in academic assignments, the institution appears more lenient when it comes to AI in art. Lee further elaborated, ‘It feels very disrespectful how the University is so cautious about AI being used in assignments and regular classes, but they don’t apply that same sort of caution with art.’ This sentiment is exacerbated by the University’s prior use of AI-generated murals on campus, which some students felt overlooked the talent within the art program.
Despite these frustrations, there is a glimmer of cautious optimism. The fact that the course is taught by an actual artist provides a sense of relief for some. Lee, after looking into the course details, noted, ‘I looked into the class more to see if it was straight up a generative AI art class. It is not and is taught by an actual artist. That makes me think it’s going to be more of a class that teaches how to use AI as a tool.’ This suggests a potential for the course to empower students with new creative tools rather than diminish the role of human artistry.
Professor Abinadi Meza, who will be teaching the course, clarified its objectives. He stated, ‘The purpose is to help students use any tool they wish to with greater critical and creative skills in pursuit of their own visions and questions. AI is already a standard general tool in the art world, but that doesn’t mean every artist should use AI in their work.’ The fall semester will focus on the historical and theoretical aspects of AI in art, with creative projects to be explored in a subsequent part of the seminar.
Also Read:
- Generative AI Reshapes Marketing and Advertising Workforce, Impacting Hiring and Internships
- University of the Philippines System Advances AI Integration in Education with Focus on Ethical Use and Accountability
As technology continues to advance, students like Lee remain cautiously optimistic, emphasizing the need for awareness and the potential to collectively address future challenges posed by AI in the artistic domain. The introduction of ‘Art in the Age of AI’ marks a significant step for the University, navigating the evolving landscape of art and technology amidst a diverse range of student opinions.
