History Repeats Itself
Imagine we are in the era when photography is beginning to emerge. We are traditional artists—painters and poster designers—who spend hours creating detailed images for advertisements and movies. Suddenly, this new technology appears, allowing images to be captured in an instant. The initial reaction is skepticism and rejection. "Is this art?" we ask ourselves. "Can a machine replace the artist's eye and hand?"
After a few years, photography settles in and begins to be accepted as a legitimate form of art. Photographers find their place in the artistic world, and photography is integrated into exhibitions and galleries.
Later on, the transition from traditional art to digital art arrives. When artists began using tools like Photoshop to create their works, criticisms arose once again. People said that digital art "wasn't real," that "a computer did it," that it "lacked soul." Many argued that true art had to be made with brush and canvas, and that computers could never capture the essence of human creativity.
However, over time, digital art was not only accepted but also flourished. Today, it is a recognized and respected form of artistic expression. Digital works are exhibited in galleries and museums worldwide, and digital artists have demonstrated that tools do not define art; it is the creator's vision and skill that truly matter.
History repeats itself once more when analog photography is replaced by digital photography. Purists defended the grain and chemical development process, while others embraced the infinite possibilities of digital. Again, the debate revolved around the authenticity and value of art produced with new technologies.
Today, we find ourselves at a similar point with Artificial Intelligence (AI). Just like in the past, controversy arises over whether works created or assisted by AI can be considered art. Some fear it devalues traditional forms and that human skills will become obsolete. However, if we look back, we see a pattern: every technological innovation has faced resistance before being accepted and integrated into the art world.
The Parallel Between Artistic Revolutions
The advent of new technologies has always shaken the foundations of art. Photography freed painters from the need to faithfully represent reality, giving rise to movements like Impressionism and Expressionism. Digital photographyallowed for greater experimentation and accessibility, democratizing the medium and enabling more people to express themselves creatively.
The transition from traditional to digital art is a clear example of how technology can transform the perception and practice of art. Initially, digital art was met with skepticism. Its legitimacy was questioned, and it was argued that it lacked the human touch. But over time, it became clear that digital tools did not replace the artist but expanded their creative possibilities.
Now, with Artificial Intelligence, we are facing another revolution. AI has the potential to change not only how we create art but also how we perceive and experience it. And, as on previous occasions, history seems to be repeating itself with similar debates and controversies.
Norman Rockwell and Frank Frazetta: Innovators of Their Time
Norman Rockwell
Norman Rockwell (1894–1978) was an American painter and illustrator celebrated for his idealized representations of everyday life. At a time when photography was becoming more accessible, Rockwell used photographs as references for his paintings. He would organize detailed photo sessions, directing models and capturing specific scenes that he then translated onto canvas with his unmistakable style.
Norman Rockwell using reference photos for one of his iconic works.
Final artwork.
Although some critics of the time questioned his method, arguing that he relied too heavily on photography, Rockwell saw this tool as a means to achieve greater precision and realism in his work. His goal was to tell stories and connect with the viewer, using all available tools to achieve it.
Frank Frazetta
Frank Frazetta (1928–2010), known as the "Godfather of Fantasy Art," revolutionized science fiction and fantasy illustration. Frazetta also used photographs and mirrors to study anatomy and dynamic poses. He didn't always take the photos himself; sometimes he used existing images or his own reflection to capture specific expressions and movements.
His practical approach and openness to using references allowed him to create works that were both realistic and fantastic. Frazetta understood that tools were means to an end: conveying emotions and telling powerful stories.
Frank Frazetta posed with a knife, using this reference to capture dynamic tension in his iconic artwork.
Resistance to Change and Bets on the Future
Despite the advances and opportunities that AI offers, there is notable resistance from some sectors clinging to traditional methods. This resistance is understandable; change can be unsettling and challenging.
On the other hand, many companies and prominent figures are betting on AI as the next big leap in creativity and innovation. For example, Adobe, a leader in creative software, has integrated AI tools into its product suite. With Adobe Sensei, they offer AI-based functions that allow artists to work more efficiently and explore new creative possibilities.
In the film world, figures like James Cameron have shown interest in emerging technologies. Cameron is known for his constant technological innovation in movies like Avatar and Terminator. He has used cutting-edge technologies to enhance storytelling and the visual experience, and it is likely he will explore AI's potential in future productions.
However, not everyone is adopting this trend. Procreate, a popular drawing app for iPad developed by Savage Interactive, has been more cautious in implementing AI tools in its platform. While Procreate is highly valued for its fluidity and ease of use, some users have noticed the absence of AI-based functions that could improve and accelerate workflow.
This decision can be seen as a missed opportunity, especially when competitors are incorporating advanced technologies to meet the changing needs of modern artists. Resisting AI integration could lead to falling behind in a rapidly evolving market.
This contrast between those who embrace change and those who resist is a repetition of what we've seen in the past. Traditional photographers initially rejected digital photography, arguing it lacked the depth and authenticity of analog film. Traditional illustrators expressed similar concerns with the arrival of digital art. Now, we face skepticism toward AI once again.
As philosopher George Santayana said, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." History shows us that resistance to change can limit growth and opportunities. At the same time, it's important to approach new technologies with deep understanding and ethical consideration.
Reflection on Caution in Technological Advancement
It's crucial to recognize that while AI offers countless opportunities, it also poses challenges and risks that must be seriously addressed. Geoffrey Hinton, known as the "Godfather of AI," recently resigned from his position at Google to warn the world about the potential dangers of artificial intelligence.
AI pioneer Geoffrey Hinton, speaks at the Collision Conference, in Toronto, on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young
Hinton, who has mentored many leaders in the AI field, has expressed concern that AI systems could become smarter than humans and that, without proper regulation, they could escape our control. In an interview with The New York Times, Hinton mentioned, "It's hard to see how you can prevent the bad actors from using it for bad things."
These warnings highlight the need for a balanced approach. While we embrace the advantages that AI can bring to art and other industries, we must also be aware of the ethical and social implications. The artistic and technological community must work together to ensure that AI development is carried out responsibly.
AI as a Tool in the Creative Process
Just as Rockwell and Frazetta used the technology available in their time, today's artists have access to AI as a tool to enrich our creative process. Personally, I have found AI to be an invaluable ally in accelerating tasks and exploring new possibilities.
For example, I recently worked on an illustration of a ninja turtle. I needed a specific pose that I couldn't find in existing references. Instead of spending hours searching or trying to recreate it from scratch, I used AI to generate the exact image I needed. This allowed me to save time and focus on other aspects of the work.
Some might argue that relying on AI detracts from the authenticity of the process. However, it's important to understand that AI is a tool, not a substitute for human creativity. The fact that it can generate references quickly doesn't mean the artist lacks skill or vision. On the contrary, it allows us to focus on the essence of our work.
Evolution Is Inevitable and Beneficial?
Time is one of the most valuable resources for an artist. Organizing photo sessions, hiring models, or finding specific references can be costly and time-consuming. AI offers a practical solution to overcome these barriers.
For example, if I need to represent a jet plane in a specific position, AI can generate that image in seconds. This not only speeds up the process but also opens creative possibilities that were previously hard to achieve.
It's similar to using a projector when painting a mural. While some might see it as "cheating," it's actually a technique that helps transfer sketches to a large scale with precision. What matters is the final result and the experience it offers the viewer.
Resistance to change is natural, but history has shown us that innovation often brings opportunities and significant advances. Artificial Intelligence is the next stage in the evolution of artistic tools.
Just as photography and digital art were initially rejected by some, it's likely that AI will eventually be accepted and celebrated as an integral part of the creative process. Artists who adopt this technology will be able to explore new territories and expand the limits of their creativity.
However, as Geoffrey Hinton pointed out, it's essential to proceed with caution and ethics. We must ensure that the use of AI in art respects creators' rights, avoids intellectual property infringement, and promotes originality and artistic integrity.
Embracing the Future of Art Responsibly
History repeats itself, and with each cycle of innovation, we face challenges and opportunities. The key is to keep an open mind and adapt to the new tools that arise, without neglecting ethical reflection and responsibility.
AI will not replace human creativity but can enhance it. Just as Norman Rockwell and Frank Frazetta used the tools of their time to create masterpieces, we have the opportunity to use AI to take art to new horizons.
It's time to embrace this evolution and recognize that art has always been in constant change. In doing so, we not only honor the past but also prepare ourselves for a future full of infinite possibilities, always mindful of the importance of using these tools ethically and responsibly.