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| yna@yna.co.kr 2024-10-10 17:24:34
*Editor’s note: K-VIBE invites experts from various K-culture sectors to share their extraordinary discovery about the Korean culture.
Scrutinizing AI: When Art Encounters AI Filtering
Contributed by Lee Eun-jun (professor at Kyungil University)
In London, the works of a self-proclaimed "art terrorist" known as Banksy can be seen throughout the city. I've had the chance to visit the UK several times, and each time I was fortunate enough to catch glimpses of his art. Banksy is practically synonymous with the concept of "freedom of expression." Since the 1990s, he has worked as a graffiti artist and filmmaker, all the while keeping his identity a mystery. His pieces, like Girl with a Balloon and Flower Thrower, have captivated global audiences with their bold, socially satirical themes.
Banksy's works often mix direct creations with elements borrowed from news photos or other images, embedding social messages. As a symbol of "freedom of expression," he's always pushed boundaries in his work. But as he, like others, might integrate AI into his creative process, the prospect of encountering "filtering" as a barrier to his work raises concerns.
In a previous column, I discussed AI prompt filtering. This technology automatically screens out content deemed inappropriate. To run AI programs effectively, users need to carefully craft commands, known as prompts. Given current issues like political sensitivity, misinformation, and the prevention of misuse for sexual content, filtering has become a necessity.
In the early days of AI, such filtering systems were non-existent. Even now, countries are introducing various laws and policies on filtering, and the discussion remains ongoing. Particularly when it comes to AI-generated images linked to fake news, strict regulations are essential.
Many artists like Banksy often create works intended to spark social, political, or cultural debates. Art inherently challenges societal norms, offering a platform for diverse viewpoints. However, if AI filtering systems are overly strict or broadly applied, we risk imposing a kind of "preemptive censorship" on art. Since such censorship can occur unintentionally, it becomes an even more delicate issue. The result is a limitation on freedom of expression and creative liberty.
The situation becomes particularly troubling when artists use AI tools to make social critiques or satire. If filtering targets certain themes, it disrupts the delivery of their intended messages, compromising the integrity of the creative process. For example, consider an artist trying to reinterpret Renaissance nude art using AI.
Current filtering systems might automatically block terms like "nudity" or "body." If this prevents the completion of the work, it becomes an obstacle to the artist's ability to convey the aesthetic and philosophical dimensions of their piece. When filtering ignores the context behind such expressions and blocks them indiscriminately, it restricts the autonomy of artistic creation.
The question is not whether filtering is necessary—it certainly is, especially when it comes to curbing harmful content. The real issue lies in ensuring that AI's ability to filter content does not suppress the essence of creative freedom. Balancing this with the need for responsible content regulation will be key to navigating the intersection of technology and art.
The Restriction of Social Critique and Satire
AI image generation programs like Midjourney often apply filters to prevent the creation of images involving specific individuals, especially celebrities, politicians, or sensitive societal issues. Keywords like "Biden," "Trump," or "election" are automatically blocked. I believe this approach directly stifles attempts to use political satire as an art form, thus limiting the scope of political artistic activities.
The developers of these AI tools may implement such filters to avoid controversy and legal liabilities, aligning with broader public concerns and policy frameworks. While such precautions might be intended for the public good, excessively restricting artistic expression can have unintended consequences.
Artistic expression inherently involves complex contexts and multi-layered meanings. A simple act of blocking certain words or images is often inadequate for capturing this complexity. Even when specific topics or keywords are used in artistic works, their interpretation can vary widely depending on context—ranging from positive to critical or satirical. The reason Banksy's works have resonated with many, even among those with little understanding of art, lies in the deep satire and context embedded within them.
As society becomes more pluralistic, it's essential to consider a broader range of perspectives. AI filtering systems, which often lack the ability to understand or make such nuanced considerations, may end up suppressing artistic expression in a mechanical way. The loss from such restrictive measures doesn't just impact artists—it ultimately affects the public, who miss out on the thought-provoking messages that art can convey. (To be continued)
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