Art Meet AI: Solomon-Ayeni Encourages Artists to Embrace Technology Without Fear
The event Art Meet AI: Embracing the Future, Not Fighting It, hosted by Our Heritage UK, gathered artists, curators, and cultural practitioners to explore how artificial intelligence intersects with art. A standout session was led by Kikelomo Solomon-Ayeni, a Nigerian visual artist and curator known for her work across Africa, Europe, and North America.
Solomon-Ayeni shared practical advice on how artists can bring AI into their creative work. She urged artists to see AI not as a threat but as a partner that can broaden creative possibilities. “AI has brought us speed. If the digital camera outran analog cameras in gaining time, effort, and producing more income, AI has now come to supersede that record,” she explained. Her words highlighted how AI represents a significant shift in how art and technology come together.
She pointed out that AI opens doors to experimenting with new styles and techniques that might otherwise be limited by time, resources, or location. Solomon-Ayeni also introduced easy-to-use AI platforms for beginners, encouraging artists to start small and build confidence in using these tools to enhance their creativity rather than replace it.
Practical Insights for Artists
- Use AI to explore styles and techniques beyond traditional limits.
- Start with beginner-friendly AI platforms to ease into digital tools.
- View AI as a collaborator that can speed up creative processes.
- Integrate AI into existing workflows to expand artistic expression.
Attendees described her session as interactive, eye-opening, and empowering. Emerging artists especially appreciated the clear, actionable steps she offered for blending traditional art with digital innovation. Many praised her ability to address the concerns artists face when working with new technology while providing solutions based on her own experience.
The Role of Institutions in Art and AI
As part of a panel, Solomon-Ayeni called on schools, galleries, and cultural organizations to create inclusive programs that connect art and technology. She emphasized the need to equip artists with the skills and tools to succeed in a digital-first environment.
Her message left a hopeful impression. One participant noted, “Kikelomo made us see that AI is not here to take our voice away, but to help us amplify it.” The event highlighted an important shift in how the creative sector views technology, with Solomon-Ayeni’s insights playing a key role.
For artists looking to build skills in AI tools and digital creativity, exploring resources like Complete AI Training’s courses for creatives can provide valuable guidance and practical knowledge.
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