Shundo David Haye – Zen Priest

‘Art grapples with issues transcending rationality. Consequently, the advent of AI does not present a challenge to art itself; instead, it challenges the traditional understanding of how humans acquire artistic skills, which posits that art must be cultivated through training to master techniques. Such techniques typically demand an artist’s lifelong exploration and dedication, while the driving force behind this exploration is rooted in artists’ perennial sense of discontent and an unending aspiration for perfection in their craft. Artists such as Van Gogh or Picasso do not merely repeat themselves but continuously refine their expressions through the lens of their growth, life experiences, beliefs and emotions. Whether capturing a pot of sunflowers, a pair of shoes, or a woman, the simplicity of their subject matter does not diminish the complexity of their artistic endeavours.

Consider Rembrandt, ceaselessly painting his own portrait. What was he seeking? His pursuit was the elusive understanding of a self that remains perpetually unknown. AI lacks the capacity for such introspection. While it can replace certain technological skills, it falters in expressing the nuances of a sunset, a snowstorm, a baby’s cry or an old man’s tear. Since its inception, this deficiency has marked its existence, with the most significant issue being its lack of human nature and the inherent confidence that human nature carries. True confidence is forged when human weaknesses are comprehended, recognising that everyone is prone to making mistakes. In this paradigm, mistakes serve as the foundation for the perpetual search for truth.’ (from the Guardian)