Ironic Choice: Maricopa ARTS Council Opts for AI Art Over Traditional Creations

The Maricopa ARTS Council has stirred controversy by utilizing an AI image generator accused of infringing on the work of real artists. This decision comes as the nonprofit prepares for an upcoming arts event, raising eyebrows in the artistic community.

Maria Pour, who co-directed the council until last year, and Chantelle Fulce, the visual arts co-director until 2023, are both linked to Maricopa’s creative scene. Notably, the council’s logo was crafted by local graphic designer Carl Diedrich in 2013, highlighting its connection to human artistry.

However, the council has opted for Adobe’s Firefly, an AI-powered image generator that produces low-cost visuals with little artistic input required. According to SiteEngine, the promotional images released this past Friday were indeed generated using Firefly AI.

SightEngine, a prominent deepfake detection firm, verified with 99% accuracy that the art in question originated from an AI framework. This revelation has drawn ire from artists who feel their creativity and hard work are being effectively sidelined.

Experts have warned that those using Firefly face potential legal challenges due to its training on copyrighted artworks, as reported by Bloomberg. Ironically, the council’s press release highlighted the value of arts in enriching lives, while simultaneously showcasing art devoid of human creativity.

Judith Zaimont, a co-founder and the current co-director of the Maricopa ARTS Council, acknowledged the image’s origin, revealing it was generated last year by the Sedona Poetry Slam Group. She defended the decision, stating, “Maricopa ARTS Council is committed to our city’s human creative sector,” yet admitted the organization currently lacks a graphic artist.

In the face of these challenges, the council’s board composition includes a painter known for atmospheric landscapes, emphasizing that their commitment to original artistic expression remains intact.