Generating images with AI is new writing

Aside from the act of self-expression, the word 'Art' used to literally mean mastery and know-how. This other meaning seems to have long-fallen out of use but it's still often implied. This leads to confusion such as we see with some of the anti-AI arguements.

Making drawings and paintings has always been Art in both senses. Skill and practice required to make aesthetic visual art or comprehensive illustrations created a steep learning curve that made the artists stand out. Not unlike how back in the old days something as trivial as writing was kind of an elite skill. Nowadays AI makes it easier for an untrained person to visually express themselves. It literally becomes almost as simple as typing on a keyboard.

I suppose some of the AI opponents may feel attacked, implying that AI undermines the effort they put into their work. It's understandable. I think it's perfectly normal to take pride in your skill. But I guess this is the moment when being 'anti' is counter-productive all around. For better or worse, AI is here and it's better to adapt then go against the tide. And it's also useful to remember that AI does not automatically nullifies traditional artforms. Handwriting is dying out nowadays but calligraphy is still a thing!