The Artist in the Machine

The World of AI-Powered Creativity

By: Arthur I. Miller

Narrated by: Adam Lofbomm

Length: 10 hrs and 9 mins

Publisher's summary

Today's computers are composing music that sounds "more Bach than Bach", turning photographs into paintings in the style of Van Gogh's Starry Night, and even writing screenplays. But are computers truly creative - or are they merely tools to be used by musicians, artists, and writers?  

Miller, an authority on creativity, identifies the key factors essential to the creative process, from "the need for introspection" to "the ability to discover the key problem." He talks to people on the cutting edge of artificial intelligence, encountering computers that mimic the brain and machines that have defeated champions in chess, Jeopardy!, and Go. In the central part of the book, Miller explores the riches of computer-created art, introducing us to artists and computer scientists who have, among much else, unleashed an artificial neural network to create a nightmarish, multi-eyed dog-cat; taught AI to imagine; developed a robot that paints; created algorithms for poetry; and produced the world's first computer-composed musical. 

But, Miller writes, in order to be truly creative, machines will need to step into the world. He probes the nature of consciousness and speaks to researchers trying to develop emotions and consciousness in computers. Miller argues that computers can already be as creative as humans - and someday will surpass us.

©2019 The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (P)2020 Gildan Media

Incredible journey through creativity and AI

I think this is the only book that delves into the cross sections between AI and all the different aspects of creativity. It has helped me tremendously in my own AI research. A great read.

A.I. is here to stay.

Miller, a professor and author known for his work at the crossroads of science and creativity, delves into the evolving relationship between human artists and machines, offering a compelling analysis of the impact of technology on the art world.

In this captivating book, Miller skillfully navigates through the realms of visual arts, music, literature, and more, presenting a wealth of case studies and anecdotes to illuminate the ways in which AI is reshaping the creative landscape. Through engaging storytelling and rigorous research, he addresses fundamental questions about the nature of creativity, the role of the artist, and the potential of AI to augment or even surpass human artistic expression.

One of the book's strengths lies in its accessibility, as Miller adeptly distills complex concepts and theories into language that is understandable to a wide audience. Whether the reader is an artist, a technologist, or simply someone with an interest in the evolving nature of creativity, "The Artist in the Machine" offers a compelling and enriching read.

Moreover, Miller's work is not merely theoretical; he effectively contextualizes his arguments with real-world examples, demonstrating the ways in which AI is already influencing and enhancing artistic practices. From the use of algorithms to create new musical compositions to the application of neural networks in visual art, the book provides a comprehensive survey of the current state of AI in the arts.

Overall, "The Artist in the Machine" is a captivating and timely exploration of the impact of artificial intelligence on human creativity. Miller's engaging prose, insightful analysis, and interdisciplinary approach make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the future of art, technology, and the human mind. With its blend of scholarship and storytelling, "The Artist in the Machine" stands as a compelling contribution to the ongoing dialogue about the evolving role of technology in the creative process.