19-Year-Old Bengaluru Artist Faces Backlash For Selling AI-Generated Art In Church Street

A recent incident involving a 19-year-old artist selling AI-generated art on Church Street in Bengaluru has ignited a debate about the legitimacy and implications of this new art form. Ashok Reddy's social media post showcasing his stall went viral, but for surprising reasons - many criticized him for selling "stolen" and "lazy" art.

While Ashok was initially ecstatic after selling over 100 digital prints, the backlash on social media was swift. Critics argued that AI art lacks originality and creativity, questioning its value as genuine artwork. However, Ashok defended his work, stating that he uses AI software like Midjourney to ideate and work on his designs, which he then customises using tools like Photoshop.

For the first time, we opened a stall on Church Street to sell my designs, and we sold out 60-70% of our stock (heres how it went 👇, A MINI QUICK Thread) pic.twitter.com/32frlE6CFb

— Ashok Reddy (@ashoksangireddy) May 13, 2024

City-based artists have varying opinions on the use of AI in art. Watercolor artist Vidya K V sees AI art as a reflection of contemporary society and a modern form of expression. She believes that AI can help improve art and bridge the gap between the digital and physical worlds. Similarly, Rohini Sen, a faculty member at a design school, views AI as a tool to enhance creativity rather than replace it, emphasizing the need to embrace technology in the art world.

AI art is art but someone who makes AI art is NOT an artist! Anyone can create AI art with just a couple of lines as prompt with no limitations.
This.. this is just scamming by selling framed printouts
Nalla iruku da unga oozhal 👏🏽 https://t.co/PJydBnBPP8

— Kiran Tony (@s_kirantony) May 14, 2024

AI generated can never be called "My designs"....
Have some shame and sell something good or original.....

I swear the first thing that comes to AI bros mind is to capitalise on someone elses work🤦🏽

— Syed Monu Abbas (@smartron07) May 14, 2024

However, the debate extends beyond creativity to the question of ownership and authenticity. Art historian and photographer Santanu Chakraborty raises concerns about the ownership of AI-generated art, highlighting the need for mechanisms to credit original artists whose works are used to train AI algorithms.

Despite the criticism, Ashok remains undeterred and plans to continue selling his AI-generated art. He emphasizes the effort and customization involved in creating his designs, aiming to blend futurism with Indian aesthetics. His prints are priced between Rs 220 and Rs 650, and he plans to return to Church Street with more prints in the future.