German photographer Mario Klingemann has refused to accept an award for his artwork, which was created with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). The piece, titled “Memories of Passersby I”, was part of a larger exhibition at the 2019 Prix Ars Electronica in Linz, Austria.
Klingemann had used AI algorithms to create the work and submitted it as part of a competition. He was surprised when he learned that he had won one of the awards. However, upon further reflection on what this meant for art and creativity in general, he decided not to accept it.
In an open letter posted on Twitter after receiving news about his winnings, Klingemann wrote: “I have come to realize that accepting this prize would be a celebration of technology over humanity… It is important that we recognize our responsibility towards future generations and how they will use these tools.”
He went on to explain why he felt so strongly about refusing the award: “We should think carefully before rewarding machines for mimicking human creativity… We must ensure that any form of automation does not replace or devalue human labor but instead complements it.”
Klingemann’s decision has sparked debate among artists and technologists alike who are questioning whether AI-generated works can truly be considered art. While some argue that such works should be recognized as legitimate forms of creative expression due to their complexity and uniqueness, others believe they lack soul or emotion compared with pieces made by humans alone.
Regardless of where you stand on this issue, there is no denying that Klingemann’s refusal shows us just how powerful technology can be – both positively and negatively – when it comes to creating artworks. His decision also serves as a reminder for us all to consider carefully how we use new technologies in order to ensure they do not take away from our own creative potentials or those around us. |German Photographer Refuses Award for His AI “Photo”|Art|Hyperallergic
