BMW has unveiled a new exhibit called “The Electric AI Canvas” at Art Basel this week. The exhibit features the BMW i5 as a dynamic canvas for generative art and includes works by contemporary artists. The exhibit runs through June 18, 2023.
Artists
The exhibit was created with Nathan Shipley from Goodby, Silverstein & Partners, and Gary Yeh from ArtDrunk. The AI-generated animations were created using models trained on a curated dataset of contemporary artists’ works. The AI generates new abstract animations based on classical and modern art styles, then projected onto the BMW i5.
Animations
The animations are presented through projection mapping onto the BMW i5, incorporating each artist’s distinctive style and aesthetic. Mirrors enhance and reflect the animations, providing an immersive experience for viewers.
BMW
Shipley and Yeh approach AI’s role in art by focusing on its ability to support and amplify artists’ visions rather than replace them. Responsible and thoughtful experimentation with AI in art is essential, prioritizing a human-first approach. According to BMW, this approach reinforces its commitment to human-centred technology and sustainability, exploring the potential of AI as a creative tool.
The BMW i5 debuted recently as part of the 2024 5 Series lineup and offered a range of up to 295 miles from a low-profile 84.3 kilowatt-hours battery. The BMW i5 eDrive40 delivers 335 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph of 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 120 mph. The more powerful M60 has 590 horsepower on tap and is suitable for 0-60 in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 143 mph.
Here are some of the artists featured in the exhibit:
- Esther Mahlangu: A South African artist known for her Ndebele geometric patterns.
- Kohei Nawa: A Japanese artist known for his sculptures made from insects and other organic materials.
- Eric N. Mack: An American artist who uses collage, painting, and sculpture to explore themes of race, identity, and history.
- Koo Jiyoon: A South Korean artist who creates paintings and sculptures that explore the relationship between humans and technology.
- Bin Woo Hyuk: A South Korean artist who creates video installations that explore the nature of reality.
Conclusion
Critics have praised the exhibit for its innovative use of AI and its immersive experience. It has also been seen as a sign of BMW’s commitment to sustainability and willingness to experiment with new technologies.
