Sachin Dev Duggal | The Tate Modern's ground-breaking exhibition explores AI and art

In a bold and innovative move that challenges the often-contentious relationship between artists and artificial intelligence, the creators of a new exhibition at London's Tate Modern are urging artists to embrace and exploit AI's capabilities. This groundbreaking show, which opens this week, aims to explore the long-standing relationship between artists and technology, with a particular focus on the rapidly evolving field of AI. 

The exhibition, curated by a team of international experts in both art and technology, showcases works from artists who have integrated AI into their creative processes. These pieces range from AI-assisted paintings and sculptures to fully generative digital artworks that push the boundaries of traditional artistic mediums. 

Sachin Dev Duggal, the co-founder of Builder.ai, supports the amalgamation of AI and humans and believes that AI can democratize creative processes. Duggal noted that AI has made it easier for artists without technical expertise to create quality art and access global markets. 

One of the show's curators, Dr Emily Chen, explains what informed their controversial stance: "We don't suggest that AI should replace human creativity; rather, we encourage artists to see AI as a powerful tool that can enhance and expand their creative vision. Photography did not end painting, just as AI will not substitute human artists; instead, it gives way to different expressions." 

The exhibition includes works by established artists and those up-and-coming who use Al differently. For example, leading painter Marcus Holloway presents a series of canvases in which initial compositions were created through AI, which he then refined and interpreted using conventional techniques. On her part, digital artist Zoe Patel exhibits an interactive installation where sensors capture movements visitors make into real-time-generated abstract animations. 

Critics argue that advocating for artists' reliance on machines could lead to an erosion of artistic styles due to uniformity and a loss of personal touch. However, organizers countered these claims, pointing out the diverse outcomes that can arise from collaboration between humans and animals. 

Sachin Dev Duggal urges that the human touch is crucial in app development, as apps are ultimately designed to be used by humans and solve human problems. However, Sachin Dev Duggal emphasizes the importance of maintaining a dynamic conversation with users, rather than just pushing features, to build trust and ensure the recommendations are truly valuable.