The use of generative artificial intelligence in the world of art has sparked mixed reactions. Photographer Sophie Gamand recently explored how AI views dogs ears in her project featuring shelter dogs with cropped ears. Surprisingly, the AI algorithms leaned towards the belief that dogs should have floppy ears, despite the existence of breed standards and human preferences for cropped ears.

Using her own photographs of shelter dogs, many of which had severely shortened ears, Gamand aimed to restore their ears through AI technology. She utilized the DALL-E 2 program to understand how AI perceives a dogs appearance. Although the process was occasionally frustrating, Gamand wanted to minimize her interference to truly explore what the computer thought a dog should look like. It turned out that AI considers dogs to have intact ears.

Gamand believes that AI has the potential to separate genuine artists from those who rely too heavily on the technology. While AI can create stunning images, it is crucial for artists to consider their own artistic context, aesthetics, and the messages they want to convey. The use of AI should align with an artists overall vision and not solely rely on the work of others.

The ear cropping project is just one example of Gamand using AI in her work. She has also transformed AI interpretations of dogs into oil paintings and used ChatGTP to craft a letter from a shelter dog to its previous owner. Despite the benefits of AI, Gamand emphasizes the importance of ethical and honest artistic practices with this technology.

Gamands photography focuses on raising awareness for misunderstood dog breeds and animals in shelters. She has dedicated her time to volunteering at shelters across the United States and has successfully fundraised for animal shelters through her Instagram feed. Gamand believes that photographs have the power to create emotional connections between adoptable animals and potential pet owners.

Through her artwork, Gamand aims to reflect on humanity by observing dogs. However, sometimes the mirror reveals uncomfortable truths, such as the prevalence of ear cropping. She questions why certain breeds continue to undergo this procedure for aesthetic reasons, even though they are living safely as family pets. Gamand believes this reflects a broader issue in our relationship with dogs and the natural world, highlighting the need for better understanding and decision-making on behalf of our companions.

Read the original here:

Artificial Intelligence and the Perception of Dogs' Ears - Fagen wasanni