AI and Artists? It’s Not What You Think…

If you are old enough like me to remember when computers took over the graphics industry or when Photoshop replaced the photographic darkroom, just keep an open mind for a moment. (Not to disparage those using drawing by hand or making images with negatives and chemicals.)

The point is: AI is just a tool, and a helpful one for artists.

No, I’ll not be focusing on using AI to create art—that is for others to figure out. Rather, this is intended to show how artists can use tools such as ChatGPT to help.

In the ever-evolving world of creative endeavors, staying updated with the latest resources can make a significant difference. Today, I’d like to introduce you to a resource that might just be the thing you never thought you needed.

Understanding ChatGPT

ChatGPT is available as both a free and a paid version ($20 per month). You can begin exploring with the free version here. Lately, I’ve incorporated it into my daily routine, and it has remarkably replaced many traditional Google searches altogether.

How ChatGPT Can Support Your Artistic Work

• Proofreading: ChatGPT can review written materials, such as artist statements, help polish language and correct grammar or typographical errors.
• Understanding Guidelines: It can simplify complex art grant or residency submission guidelines, breaking them down into easy-to-understand bullet points and requirements.
• Crafting Artist Statements: Whether you’re starting from scratch or revising something already existing, ChatGPT can provide suggestions to enhance your statement. However, it’s never good to just copy and paste AI results without rewriting.
• Convert PDFs to Text: No need for an extra costly Adobe PDF product. Instead, take any PDF and convert it to text.
• Application Customization: Tailoring applications for grants or residencies can be streamlined with ChatGPT, helping you find the right words to express your vision. For example, it’s easy to replace one organization’s name with another quickly.
• Technical Help: Need quick tips on software, cameras, art-related equipment, or computer issues? ChatGPT can offer step-by-step advice on various technical topics.
• Step-by-Step Guidance: For any specific instructions or processes, ChatGPT can provide clear, sequential steps to follow.
• Draft Press Releases: Format and help create press releases for your show just like a gallery does.
• Custom Information: Why always search and pull up your frequently used documents such as CVs, artist statements, application templates? You can create your own GPT, customized with your information that is available for quick tweaking.

Why AI? Doesn’t Google or Word Already Do This?

Copy and replace, for example, is an easy-to-use feature already built into Word, so why bother with ChatGPT? Or, why not just search for answers on Google? True. 

But ChatGPT combines these solutions all in one place. Also, Google search results usually result in tons of spam or promotional material, rather than a quick answer. You might be skeptical, but remember critics condemning computers when they were first introduced. ChatGPT, like a computer, smartphone, car, typewriter, etc., ballpoint pen, is just a tool–not a replacement for creativity.

Making the Most of ChatGPT and Limitations

It’s important to remember too that ChatGPT works only when combined with you—a human artist/photographer. While its output almost always needs refinement, it serves as a helpful starting point. When used thoughtfully, it contributes to creative planning or artistic execution.

But What About Copyright and Usage?

Some might have heard about copyright violation claims due to OpenAI training its image-making capacity on artists, ripping them off, and using their work without consent. But, in some cases, copyrighted material by AI might be defended under fair use, particularly in contexts like research, education, or parody. Also, some believe that AI should only use copyrighted material with explicit permission from the artist. This could involve licensing agreements or other forms of consent, ensuring that artists retain control over their work. Finally, is it safe? I’m no cybersecurity expert, but I think it’s similar to using a web browser, and while breaches can happen, I prefer it than using an ATM in my neighborhood bodega. Also, I think of AI trained on art the same way I do: for inspiration to create unique images. However, if this seems sketchy, then certainly bypass this device.

Still…It Helps

Integrating ChatGPT into your artistic practice isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about embracing a tool that can not only ease everyday tasks but also inspire new creative ideas and approaches. Again, I don’t advocate it as a way to generate art (it’s alright if you do), but to help implement some of the day-to-day mundane tasks of being an artist. Afterall, not everyone can afford to pay a studio assistant.

Step-By-Step Real-World Instructions for Artists

• Create an account or sign in to ChatGPT.
• Write a prompt or question, but do so thoughtfully, as if you are talking to an intern.
• Try listing very clear instructions and use an example of what you mean for the prompt.
• Look at the results, and ask for changes, clarifications, or updates.
• For grants or residencies, copy and paste instructions, requirements and additional information listed on the website. Then ask ChatGPT to summarize the requirements, list the next steps, highlight the deadline, etc.
• Format documents with headers, bullet points, correct for typos, etc.
• Once done, just select the text and copy it into a Google Doc or Word file, and it’s ready to go.

Personal GPT

Of course, there are many other applications. As mentioned above, I created my own GPT. Getting tired of always searching for or tweaking an artist statement, I uploaded my own information to OpenAI. Then, I just prompt it to write it to summarize my education background, for example, it generates one from my artist statements and CV. Of course, I still tweak it, but since it is using my own words, it’s almost ready to go.

Bottom Line

I encourage you to try ChatGPT and discover how it can add value to your work. While not for everyone, it can really streamline your studio practice. ChatGPT can act as a part-time “assistant”, or if you have an intern or assistant, this is a tool to improve their productivity. I’m eager to hear what you think.