SXSW debates AI's impact on art and creativity

At the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, discussions focused on the impact of generative AI on art and creativity. Some technologists view AI as a tool that enhances creativity, while many artists see it as a threat to their livelihoods and the creative process. Generative AI tools, like Adobe's Firefly and SoCreate, allow users to quickly turn ideas into visual or audio formats. However, artists express concerns that these tools lack the emotional depth and unique style that human creators bring to their work, leading to homogenized results. While some artists reject AI-generated art, others explore its potential for new forms of expression. Holly Herndon, for example, uses AI to create collaborative art that amplifies human creativity. The debate continues over how to balance AI's capabilities with the need to protect artists' rights and creativity.