Dalì e AI

Throughout my life I have always been subject to various types of addictions: some healthy, such as the search for meaning, music and martial arts; others less healthy such as dark chocolate and Gin Tonic. For better or for worse I am attracted to things and, when they are interesting, I tend to sink into them with all my feet. Some last for years, others deflate quickly. In recent days, I too (like many) have succumbed to the temptation to ask the artificial intelligence a question: «Do you draw a picture of a dachshund dog dressed as Balilla, while he plays the banjo in a desolate and apocalyptic land, as if he were Was it painted together by Van Gogh, Monet and Dürer?

She replies: «Hi, I like this question of yours, it's very creative! I will try to satisfy your request!". Maybe it was because I wasn't prepared, but the result was truly shocking for me. This has obviously given rise to a crescendo of absurd requests, such as that of hypothesizing the project of a new futuristic skyscraper reminiscent of the style of Salvador Dalí. Here too – in just a few seconds – a very, very interesting result! It immediately became clear to me: no one from now on will be free from the temptation to use ChatGPT to look for an idea for anything; graphic designers, painters, musicians, chefs and journalists, not to mention teachers and students... and the list is endless.

But as in any self-respecting revolution, we are at the beginning, and opportunities and fears intersect inexorably. The first thought that comes to me is this: «But what will remain of creativity for us humans? Could we just be more imaginative in phrasing questions?” What do you think about it? The other day, my friend Matteo told me something that struck me: «If Dalí hadn't produced crazy and visionary things, AI would have stuck to the tram». Too true Matteo! And do you know what my grandfather said in unsuspecting times? "If after looking for a solution to a problem your armpits don't stink, it means you're not on the right path!".

Andrea Gotico
NP January 2024