AI and Myths of Creativity
Publication
Lev Manovich. "AI and Myths of Creativity." Chapter 4 of Artificial Aesthetics. Earlier version published in Architectural Design, Special Issue: Machine Hallucinations: Architecture and Artificial Intelligence (Volume 92, Issue 3), pages 1-144, May/June 2022. Issue Edited by: Matias del Campo, Neil Leach.
Abstract
In this chapter, I explore the myths about creativity that shape our understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) in the arts. I challenge the Romantic idea that art is the highest expression of human creativity, a belief that influences how we perceive AI's potential in artistic production. As art has evolved from the technical skill of the 19th century to the idea-focused practices of today, there's a noticeable gap between how the public and experts view art. This gap shows in our fascination with AI's ability to create realistic and modernist art while overlooking its potential in more innovative forms like interactive installations. The rise of the "creative economy" has reinforced the link between art and AI, suggesting that creativity is a distinctly human trait. I argue that we need to rethink these assumptions and separate AI from outdated artistic myths. By moving beyond the question of whether AI can be creative, we can explore its role in art, design, and architecture more fully. This shift would allow us to see what AI can genuinely contribute to cultural production, challenging the cultural narratives that currently limit its potential.