Ultra-Realistic Humanoid Robot Artist Ai-Da Makes History

Ai-Da standing next to her artwork A.I. God. Portrait of Alan Turing, exhibited at the United Nations. 

On November 7, 2024, ultra-realistic humanoid robot Ai-Da made history in the world of art. Ai-Da has cameras in her eyes and a robotic arm and makes art with artificial intelligence (AI) technology. AI is the imitation of human activity and intelligence by computer systems and machines.

Ai-Da's artwork A.I. God. Portrait of Alan Turing sold for almost $1.1 million at a Sotheby's auction. 

Ai-Da’s painting, A.I. God. Portrait of Alan Turing, sold for almost $1.1 million at a Sotheby’s art auction. The auction was an online sale, and 27 competing bids were received for the artwork. Ai-Da’s portrait of mathematician and computer scientist Alan Turing greatly surpassed its expected price of $120,000-$180,000. This sale marks a significant milestone for AI art.

In a Zoom call, Mr. Aidan Meller, the robot’s creator, spoke about how Ai-Da can make AI progress more accessible for people. “There is an enormous change at the moment with technology,” said Meller. “As a result of that, it is quite hard to discuss things about AI because it’s invisible. Through Ai-Da, however, we are able to make AI solid.”

Meller initially gained the inspiration to design and make Ai-Da from his son, who showed him a LEGO robot. Meller was moved to explore the development of AI that makes its own art.

Ai-Da's artwork was showcased at the United Nations. 

AI in the World of Art

In our interview, Meller shared, “The Ai-Da project was devised as a way of exploring the ethical impact of technology today.” He further explained the possible effect of AI on art by humans, comparing AI to the invention of cameras. “When the camera was invented, people got very worried. They thought that all the painter jobs were going to be taken,” said Meller. “I think AI is similar. People are worried about AI and how it’s going to take all the jobs. In some ways, it will, but like the camera, it won’t stop the painters from painting.”

Princess Beatrice of the British Royal family (second left) and Mr. Aidan Meller (third to left) view Ai-Da at the United Nations.

He does, however, believe that artwork made by AI could eventually come to surpass the work of humans. Next year, he plans to upgrade Ai-Da’s abilities to create even more astonishing images. Regardless, he believes that AI and human art can coexist. “The art world will be hugely changed by this new technology, but it won’t stop those who want to do traditional art,” said Meller.