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AI Art’s Shake-Up: Gift Economy Meets Innovations in Mid-Michigan 

 February 26, 2024

By  Joe Habscheid

Summary: Applying AI to art-making has transformed creative circles and elicited mixed responses. When a WIRED reader felt shortchanged after receiving an AI-generated painting as a gift, it prompted a fascinating exploration into the economics of gift-giving and artistic value's shifting perceptions. This piece reflects on that dialogue, its implications for professionals in Mid-Michigan, and the evolving views of AI's role in creative industries.


Unpacking the Gift Economy

Contemplating the WIRED reader's disappointment leads us to Lewis Hyde's insightful "The Gift," renowned for its examination of art's role in market economies. Hyde posits that artists thrive within gift economies, where art is a communal expression and the act of creating is itself a gift. In this context, is an AI-generated artwork a 'gift'? Or does it signify a deviation towards art's commodification?

The Value of AI-Created Art

Recipients may understandably feel cheated when the gift—an expression of the giver's artistic talent—comes from a machine. As professionals engaged in the liberal tradition, we can empathize with these feelings. Current AI-generated art can lack the personal touch and creative depth characteristic of human artistic expression, stirring such sentiments.

Revisiting Art, Inspiring Creativity

Art, in its myriad forms—visual, auditory, written, cinematic—is an enriching source of inspiration and personal growth. The columnist’s suggestion to rediscover art that moves us can reignite our personal creativity, opening avenues for positive change. Lawyers, doctors, consultants—professionals of every stripe can find invigorating perspectives within these explorations. A silver lining, one might say, from the experience of the disillusioned WIRED reader.

The Future Standpoint

The AI disruption extends beyond mere creative circles; it has seeped into various professional sectors including law, healthcare, and consultancy. As AI's capabilities evolve, so too might our perceptions of its artistic outputs. And as we witness these changes in Mid-Michigan and beyond, it's important we keep up with technological advancements and the shifting landscape they forge.

#AIArt #GiftEconomy #ProfessionalInsights #MidMichiganAI


The encounter with AI-generated art doesn't merely kindle debates about creativity and commodification. It invites us to consider change, innovation, and the uncertainties they hold. For professionals across domains, these ruminations can offer insights as we navigate the ever-evolving technological cosmos surrounding us.

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Featured Image courtesy of Unsplash and Mick Haupt (Htt30LUxpBY)

Joe Habscheid


Joe Habscheid is the founder of midmichiganai.com. A trilingual speaker fluent in Luxemburgese, German, and English, he grew up in Germany near Luxembourg. After obtaining a Master's in Physics in Germany, he moved to the U.S. and built a successful electronics manufacturing office. With an MBA and over 20 years of expertise transforming several small businesses into multi-seven-figure successes, Joe believes in using time wisely. His approach to consulting helps clients increase revenue and execute growth strategies. Joe's writings offer valuable insights into AI, marketing, politics, and general interests.

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