6b04

TECHNOLOGY

2023 June 7, 8

Medium

The Weird World of Artificial Intelligence Art

by David Morton

This technology can bring your imagination to life!

7

Have you ever wondered what you would look like as a cartoon character or a Marvel superhero? With the power of artificial intelligence (AI) text-to-image generators, you can create images just like that—without any art skills. You just need to have some experience with technology as well as a decent computer.

How does it work?

  AI text-to-image generators are trained through a process called machine learning. In this process, the generator’s “brain” is fed massive numbers of images and learns to distinguish what they are. But the generator doesn’t just learn to tell the difference between a banana and a balloon. Rather, it will categorize every possible detail. These pixel-level details are then stored in a mathematical space. When someone gives the generator a text prompt such as “Doraemon riding a white horse,” the program uses algorithms to “think.” Moments later, the program will create an entirely unique image that you requested.

  Some artists worry that they are being replaced by this technology. But other artists like to collaborate with the generator, using its power for ideas and inspiration.