The real truth about AI and the future of artists

More and more people are relying on artificial intelligence to create their art.

There’s an AI for almost everything: writing, painting, or creating music. The results are becoming more and more detailed.

However, artists shouldn’t be discouraged by this.

Art is more than just skills.

Real art comes from the heart.

I know it sounds like a cliché, but it’s the truth. Why are we so inspired by the great artistic achievements of the past? Is it because they look beautiful, or is it because there’s something more to them? If you pay attention, you will notice that art that comes from the heart of the artist resonates with you on a deeper level. It’s almost like your soul is communicating with the artist’s soul. And this happens even when the artist has mediocre skills.

AI can replicate the artistic technique, but it will never have “heart”.

Art is more than just a business.

Every artist wants to make a living with his work.

And nowadays, every artist seems to have made business their priority. If your only focus is money, you will sacrifice your artistic integrity (and the quality of your work) for a quick buck. But art is, first and foremost, a personal exploration that you share with the world.

AI is only able to copy and re-elaborate on what others have created, but it will never have your unique voice.

Art is more than just fame.

Yesterday, Taylor Swift played a concert here in Italy.

I saw the pictures: she had filled one of Milan’s biggest stadiums. Millions of younger artists often view that level of fame as their destination. And, as Simon Sinek explains in his book “The Infinite Game”, having this kind of destination is always problematic. For once, every small achievement will never be enough. Secondly, to reach this kind of fame, you often need to sacrifice what’s important to you for something that is easy, superficial and popular.

Finally, if you ever achieve this level after sacrificing what really matters, you will discover that there’s nothing special beyond that point.

July 15, 2024