Tampa Museum of Art October 8, 2023
Artists always need inspiration to create beautiful images, stories, and music. Whether these ideas are influenced by nature, culture, science, or technology, humans want visions and thoughts presented in original or intriguing ways. However, what if a robot or machine can create a piece of work better?
In Ethan Mollock’s article Automating Creativity, there was a contest conducted at Wharton School of Business where judges chose the best-generated ideas for papers, and with the findings…” Of the 40 best ideas rated by the judges, 35 came from ChatGPT”.
But is that truly what we want from art—perfection?
Many instructors have different perceptions of AI in the classroom, but the levels of AI-generated work are acceptable based on particular software programs.
For example, Christopher Ramsey who teaches Multimedia Writing at Full Sail University allows his students to use Adobe’s Firefly to create an image for their six-word story assignment. Also, Danette Albino from Twins Lake Elementary in Tampa, Florida allows her students to use ProCreator for projects.
If we want learning to occur as well as decision-making, we need spaces where people can make mistakes and create authentic pieces of work. At the Tampa Museum where Danette Albino works as a volunteer, she connects with patrons, so they enjoy art as an experience–exploring the museum for wonder and curiosity. Located in the museum, are classrooms for kids and teens interested in painting, sculpting, and ceramics.
Utilizing technology for art such as AI can be problematic, but it can also be exciting. Some museum exhibits have incorporated technology, and some patrons may have embraced it or rejected it. One piece at the Tampa Museum of Art, Simplemente Bellas is a kinetic work of art (moving wheels with red roses in the spokes of bicycle wheels) designed by Mabel Poblet. Click the Link for the Video HERE
In the entranceway of the museum, you may see a flight of bright-red planes with hearts that have a surreal connection to pop art from Roy Lichtenstein.
Also, there are glass windows and doors that provide the area with an open environment. An experience that featured a fashion show back in March. These are more ideas that were generated by humans to make connections with people.
Sculptures by Esterio Segura Goodbye My Love
Multiple artists from the Impressionism era such as Claude Monet, Julien Dupre, and Winsler Homer were showcased in the Frontiers of Impressionism exhibition at the Tampa Museum of Art–now until January 7, 2024. Some of the themes from over 100 years ago were based on their impressions of how they saw people, life, and work. It’s through these human experiences and impressions that we may not have “perfect” ideas but we have consciousness.
Works above (Left to Right) Winslow Homer/ Coast in Winter; Max Slevogt; A Self-Portrait in the Garden at Godramstein; Julien Dupre /The Haymakers; Claude Monet/Water Lilies.
Stacy Feuerherdt 