Exploring the Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Artistic Practice : A Case Study of Finnish Contemporary Artists

In this master's thesis, I investigate how Finnish contemporary artists use artificial intelligence (AI) in their artistic practice. As AI technology rapidly evolves, I explore how these artists use AI tools, how this affects their creative work and identity, and what opportunities and challenges they see. My research aims to understand the relationship between artists and AI. I used a qualitative case study method for this study. I conducted interviews with five Finnish contemporary artists from different fields: Arthur Franck, Teemu Mäki, Jenni Pasanen, Roope Rainisto, and Pasi Siitonen. I analysed the recorded interviews using the Gioia method to identify common themes concerning the artists' experiences with AI. In this research, I applied Greenberg´s and Mitchell's medium theories, critical theories (including Bourdieu and Marx), perspectives on technological determinism and technophobia, the legal aspects of copyright, authorship, and ownership, as well as Mazzone & Elgammal's framework for the AI workflow." My results show that artists use AI actively. They mainly view AI tools as a way to work faster, get assistance with the workflow, and find new ideas. The artists often use AI's unexpected results ("hallucinations") in creative ways. I found a key theme that the artist's role is changing to one of curating and guiding the AI while still maintaining control and authorship. Opportunities identified include making workflows easier, finding new aesthetic possibilities, and potentially making art production more accessible and faster. However, the artists raised concerns about copyright, the ethics of AI training data, possible societal biases, and the uncertain financial future for artists. Despite these worries, the artists emphasised that human intention, physical craftmanship, and the artist's own interaction with the audience will retain their value in the future. In conclusion, my findings indicate that Finnish contemporary artists utilise AI with both pragmatism and critical awareness. They see AI as a powerful tool but are also aware of complex ethical, creative and professional questions. My research highlights the importance of critical thought regarding the use of AI and the potential need for new legislation, such as AI taxation, to prevent and mitigate the negative impacts of AI. This ensures that technology serves human creativity, artistic values, and meaning, not replaces them, in our evolving culture.

Grantor dc:publisher

Helsingin yliopisto

Year dc:date.issued

2025

Author dc:creator

• Isosävi, Janne

• luovuus
• taiteellinen työ
• tekijänoikeus
• tekoäly
• taiteilijuus
• kuvataide
• taide
• tekijyys
• tekoälytaide
• taidehistoria
• nykytaide
• artificial intelligence
• AI
• art history
• generative ai
• artistic practice
• ai art

Statement dc:rights

• CC BY 4.0

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/10138/598148

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:helda.helsinki.fi:10138/598148