Belfast Exposed Faces Backlash Over AI Art in Photography Exhibition
Belfast Exposed, a photography gallery located in Belfast, Northern Ireland, has come under fire for showcasing AI-generated images in its latest exhibition, 'Beneath the Surface'. One notable piece, 'Galatea' by Jonny Sheridan, portrays a failed futuristic romance between a man and his AI girlfriend. Sheridan, 47, hailing from Dublin, developed this work during his Master's program at Ulster University, where it is featured alongside pieces from eight other graduates. Drawing inspiration from the Pygmalion myth, Sheridan's project questions whether AI amplifies or simply mirrors misogyny. Critics, including photographer Brendan Harkin, argue that this inclusion disrespects traditional photography, with calls for a 'no AI' policy. In response, Belfast Exposed emphasized its commitment to supporting emerging artists through its collaboration with Ulster University.
Key facts
- Belfast Exposed is hosting an exhibition titled 'Beneath the Surface' that includes AI-generated images by Jonny Sheridan.
- Sheridan's work, 'Galatea', depicts a failed near future romance between a man and his robotic AI girlfriend.
- Sheridan is a 47-year-old originally from Dublin and a Master's graduate from Ulster University.
- The exhibition features works by eight other Master's graduates from Ulster University.
- Sheridan's project is inspired by the Greek myth of Pygmalion.
- Critics, including photographer Brendan Harkin, have criticized the inclusion of AI images, calling for a 'no AI' policy.
- Belfast Exposed defended its decision, citing its partnership with Ulster University and its role in supporting emerging artists.
- The exhibition has sparked considerable criticism on social media and in the local photography community.
Entities
Artists
- Jonny Sheridan
- Brendan Harkin
Institutions
- Belfast Exposed
- Ulster University
- Belfast Telegraph
- PetaPixel
Locations
- Belfast
- Northern Ireland
- Dublin
- Ireland