Exploring AI Development and Evaluation Through Art at Washington University

Artist Tiffany Calvert, chair of WashU’s MFA in Visual Art program, is pioneering a unique fusion of traditional and modern art techniques through her still life paintings. Collaborating with engineers at Washington University in St. Louis, she blends historical inspiration with cutting-edge AI technology. Using a custom AI diffusion model, Calvert transforms images from Dutch and Flemish still life paintings into abstract artwork. This model, adapted by WashU engineers, innovates by not simply piecing together existing images but by creating entirely new compositions, allowing Calvert to explore the intricate balance between abstraction and realism. Her work not only challenges viewers to engage with the process of looking but also reflects the evolving dialogue between art and technology.