Bangkok Design Week promotion under fire for using AI-generated artwork
AriAround’s promotional image for the upcoming 2024 Bangkok Design Week ignited a fierce debate among netizens for allegedly using artificial intelligence (AI)-generated art. The controversial image left many questioning the event’s commitment to showcasing the authentic creativity of local artists.
The Facebook post, shared on Saturday, January 20, triggered a barrage of comments expressing outrage at the alleged use of AI in crafting the promotional materials. Critics argue that relying on AI undermines the very essence of the event, designed to celebrate and highlight the artistic prowess of the Ari-Pradipat neighbourhood.
Attempting to douse the flames, the page administrator responded yesterday, January 22, acknowledging the absence of internal graphic designers and revealing that all artwork had been contributed by volunteers. The explanation, however, did little to pacify the disgruntled netizens.
Unimpressed with the response, commenters insisted that if the organisers were ill-equipped in terms of both budget and manpower, they should reconsider hosting the event altogether.
Scheduled to unfold from January 27 to February 4, the 2024 Bangkok Design Week promises a week-long extravaganza under the theme relation-SHIFT. The event aims to champion co-living spaces, creative businesses, and enhance the overall livability of Bangkok. Planned activities include captivating art exhibitions, enlightening seminars and workshop sessions, product stalls, and a tantalising array of street food, reported The Nation.
Despite the current controversy, Bangkok Design Week has solidified its place in the city’s annual event calendar since gaining recognition as a UNESCO Creative City. Organised by the Creative Economy Agency in collaboration with over 60 Thai and international partners, along with the participation of over 2,000 designers and businesses, the event annually draws around 400,000 eager visitors.
In related news, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin unleashed Thailand’s secret weapon, (AI), at the 54th World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos. The WEF was not just a meeting this year, it was a battleground for global leaders navigating a world torn apart by geopolitics and AI advancements.
