The Clash of AI and Original Art: A New Era in Creativity

Understanding AI Art and Original Art

AI art is created using algorithms that analyze vast amounts of data to produce images, often based on prompts or learned styles. These systems can generate art quickly and in many styles, from photorealistic portraits to surreal landscapes. Original art, by contrast, is crafted by human artists who bring personal experience, emotion, and intention to their work.

The key difference lies in the creative process. AI relies on patterns and data, while human artists use imagination and emotion. All AI images are by nature digital. AI can replicate an oil painting based on data parameters, but it cannot actually create an oil painting or go through the creative process in the same way a human oil painter can.

AI in art can be advantageous, depending on your goals. AI is much faster than a human artist; it can produce thousands of images in the time it takes a human to create one. However, it is worth remembering that processing requires energy, often produced with non-renewable resources. AI can be a useful tool in experimentation. Artists can use it to explore new ideas, generate inspiration quickly, or even build a framework for a more complex work. For example, some artists create initial sketches with AI, then refine and personalize the work by hand. This blend combines efficiency with authenticity. They may paint over an AI image to make it their own or add their own "skin" to an AI-generated 3D print.

The Unique Value of Original Art

Despite AI’s capabilities, original art holds qualities that machines cannot replicate. It cannot infuse the work with feelings, memories, and stories like humans can. Neither can it replicate the unique brushstrokes that add character and authenticity to a work by a particular artist. AI doesn't understand nuance and is unable to reflect understandings about an artist's beliefs, background, or social environment.

Intentional imperfection is another quality unique to original art. AI can produce imperfect images, but that is not by intention. For example, I recently saw an AI-generated image of what was supposed to be a business team meeting around a laptop computer—where the screen was facing the wrong way!

Beyond all that, studies are now starting to reveal that human-generated art is actually better in a physiological sense for the viewer. A study in the UK asked a group of people to study one of Van Gogh's paintings. It found that taking time with original art, as opposed to prints of the same image, reduced stress and optimized well-being to a much greater extent. In our frenetic, doom-scrolling world, taking time out in the quiet sanctuary of a gallery, or even your own private collection, can restore your soul as well as your body (Taylor, L, 2025).

Consider a painting by Vincent van Gogh. Its swirling brushstrokes and vivid colors express his emotional turmoil and vision. AI can mimic the style but cannot recreate the lived experience behind the work. When we look at original artwork, we feel it, rather than just see it.

Traditional artist applying oil paint on canvas

The Challenges of AI in Art

Of course, there are other issues surrounding AI and art. Firstly, there are copyright concerns. AI often learns from existing artworks, raising questions about ownership and originality. Using an artist's style or even their images without permission is stealing, plain and simple. Additionally, the market can become even more flooded with low-cost images. For the non-art-savvy consumer, this can potentially damage the value of original work. Many people would prefer to buy a cheap knock-off that matches their couch rather than pay a bit extra for an original piece.

AI cannot replicate an artist's beliefs, stories, or memories. Carpet, mixed media, Ann Russell, 2025.

All of this has repercussions for both the artist and the art lover. I have often supported the idea of buying original art because artists need to make a living. This continues to be true, but also remember that original art is better for you (and arguably the planet). Artists don't have to feel that they can't use AI in their work, so long as they keep their unique voice and human element in their creations.

As Taylor states in her article, "Art is vital not only to the nation’s economy, but to its health. You can’t argue with the science."

The Future of Art: Embracing AI and Originality

As we move forward, the relationship between AI and original art will continue to evolve. Artists may find new ways to incorporate AI into their creative processes, blending technology with traditional methods. This fusion could lead to exciting new forms of expression that challenge our understanding of art.

The future may also see a greater appreciation for the unique qualities of original art. As AI-generated works become more commonplace, the value of human creativity may be recognized even more. Collectors and art lovers might seek out original pieces not just for their aesthetic appeal but for the stories and emotions they convey.

In conclusion, while AI has undoubtedly changed the landscape of art, it cannot replace the depth and richness of human creativity. Original art remains a vital part of our cultural fabric, offering insights into the human experience that machines simply cannot replicate.

As we navigate this new era, let us celebrate both the innovations brought by AI and the timeless beauty of original art. The two can coexist, each enriching our understanding of creativity in its own way.

Source: Taylor, L, (2025), "The Guardian view on art and health: the masterpiece can cure the body as well as the soul", The Guardian, Australia, retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/nov/02/the-guardian-view-on-art-and-health-the-masterpiece-can-cure-the-body-as-well-as-the-soul?CMP=share_btn_url