Scads of new artwork have emerged due to advancements in artificial intelligence, with many pieces sparking controversy for being based on existing works by artists. Even a highly esteemed art critic may have unknowingly been fooled by a Twitter user who showcased how AI can “enhance” classic artworks, starting with Edward Hopper’s iconic Nighthawks.
Recently, Twitter user Sonch (@soncharm) posted an image of Edward Hopper’s famous urban scene, Nighthawks from 1942, housed at the Art Institute of Chicago. Sonch claimed, “Using AI, I was able to enhance an old painting and make it better.” Sonch expressed frustration about the original setup of the painting, highlighting the empty side and lack of detail.
Sonch explained, “I tasked the AI to analyze the image and provide a detailed description. By utilizing this information, I enhanced the image, resulting in a brighter mid-century soda shop depiction.” Subsequent iterations through the AI process depicted cheerful individuals in a sunny setting, eventually evolving into a lively Sunday brunch scene with two joyous, albeit slightly comical-looking, dogs on the sidewalk.
According to Sonch, “The AI continuously adds intricate details and delightful elements that elevate the image from its initial somber state.” The transformation included elements like dogs, a vibrant town sky, a close-knit group of friends, and an overall sense of contentment and vitality.
Original Soncharm blog featuring Hopper’s Nighthawks.
The post garnered significant engagement, with numerous comments and interactions, as Sonch staunchly defended the improved version while disregarding the original painting’s merits. Photographer Joshua Ryan Williams challenged the subjective nature of declaring one version better than the other, to which Sonch responded by citing specific improvements listed in a spreadsheet.
A screenshot from Soncharm’s account hinted that renowned art critic Jerry Saltz may have been misled by the altered artwork, praising the transformation of the complex original painting into an illustrative piece. The authenticity of Saltz’s reaction remains uncertain, as the comments have been removed.
The second rendition of Nighthawks by Soncharm.
Others joined the trend, such as user Henry Pissinger (@abbleiphone), who added color to Picasso’s Guernica, noting the enhanced vibrancy and energy in the revised version, complete with amusing animal characters.
Despite some backlash and criticism, a user named not nowt (@yo_watson) appreciated the original intent behind the posts, acknowledging the trolling aspect amidst the mixed reactions.
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