Can AI Artwork Classifications and NFT Tech Contribute To Protect Cultural Heritage?

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Or, even, do you think its possible that artificial intelligence’s classifying, documenting and analyzing of artwork, along with the NFT technology, contribute to preserving and protecting cultural heritage and the field of art conservation?

With the AI tech developing so quickly (due to AI help), what happened 6 months ago is “old hat” for AI developers. I was on the phone this afternoon with a client who is deep into this world on an international level. Stuff the public hasn’t seen yet, they are way past. But, there is a lot of 20 century thinking and egos that will get into the way of early adoption in the field of art authentication. Among the paranoia created by Hollywood films from the last 40 years or more, there is the fear of a “take-over” by cyborgs in our near future. Well, undoubtedly, yes, this is disruptive technology but…
While I agree that with the ever-growing amount of digital artwork being created and the need to preserve and protect our cultural heritage, AI artwork classification is beginning to suggest some interesting applications of real value as a valuable documentation tool in the field of art conservation and restoration. But it’s too “frothy” to say that this innovative technology also helps to prevent forgery, theft, and the degradation of priceless pieces.

One of the primary benefits of AI artwork classification is its ability to analyze and categorize vast amounts of data quickly and accurately. This may be particularly useful in the art research fields that overlap with and collaborate with the profession of art conservation. But the use of AI algorithms undoubtedly will clash with the egos and old world research of art experts. Quickly and accurately identifying the artist, style, and period of a particular piece will not quickly be depended upon for valuable assets like art. There may be some future scenario, however that may allow AI researched facts and data that will assist art industry experts to make some informed decisions about its care and treatment.

I think its a given that AI art research can provide valuable insights into the history and evolution of art. By analyzing and categorizing large quantities of artwork, researchers can gain a better understanding of the various styles, techniques, and materials used by artists throughout history. This can lead to new discoveries and a deeper appreciation of the cultural heritage that these works represent.

There are some AI developments suggesting that in addition to assisting with identification, AI artwork classification can also help to prevent forgery and theft. By analyzing the unique characteristics of an artwork, such as brushstrokes, color palettes, and composition, AI algorithms can create a digital fingerprint of the piece. This fingerprint can then be compared to other known works by the same artist or from the same period, helping to determine the authenticity of the artwork in question. In cases where forgery is suspected, AI can provide valuable evidence to support the claim, potentially saving collectors and institutions from purchasing or displaying fraudulent works. But here they enthusiasts blank out on pigment analysis and history, and the value of diagnostic imaging.

Moreover, AI artwork classification can play a significant role in the recovery of stolen or lost artworks. By creating a digital database of classified artworks, law enforcement agencies and art recovery specialists can more easily identify and track down missing pieces. This not only aids in the return of stolen art but also helps to deter would-be thieves by making it more difficult for them to sell or display their ill-gotten gains.

How does NFT technology fit into this picture?

Out of the technology of the crypto currencies, one of the cryptocurrency companies, Ethereum developed a digital product that could be authenticated (enhancing a security component) and carry with it documentation. As with the crypto technology, the digital object, once created or mined, cannot be altered, changed or added to. It is a “non-fungible token” or NFT.

This NFT technology development has taken off in a completely independent direction from cryptocurrencies and is proving to be of potentially very high value within many industries that depend on accurate and authenticated record keeping thereby eliminating the element of fraud. Some experts estimate that the NFT technology will be an integral part of our society’s record keeping and communication system and by 2030 that this technology will be so integrated into all industries that it will become more important than the internet.

To some economists, therefore, the use of the NFT technology for making original digital art related collectibles will be of much less significant importance to society. Yet, given the financial instruments and currency potential, it remains of dominant interest in the headlines these days. Even though it appears that the collectible NFTs are going to be a minuscule part in the % of use of the technology in the future, the technology appears to be here to stay, not just a fad that will pass.

My granddaughter’s portrait that was made into an NFT.

In conclusion, the role of AI artwork classification in preserving and protecting our cultural heritage cannot be overstated. As technology continues to advance, the potential applications for AI in the art world will only continue to grow. By embracing these innovations, we can ensure that future generations have the opportunity to appreciate and learn from the rich history of art that has been passed down through the ages. With the help of AI, we can not only safeguard our cultural heritage but also unlock new insights and discoveries that will enrich our understanding of the art world for years to come.

Though this information is from 2018, it is still entertaining and interesting. Here is one of the most well known articles on the developing use of and capabilities utilizing art for the patient or example.

Does anyone “out there,” know anyone working on an AI database for art?

Questions about NFTs and art or art conservation?

Call Scott M. Haskins, Art Conservator

805 570 4140 faclartdoc@gmail.com

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About Scott M. Haskins

Scott Haskins has been in professional art conservation since 1975, specializing in the conservation/restoration of easel paintings, murals and art on paper. FACL, Inc. is known nationally for doing A+ work no matter the size or difficulty of the project. We are happy to do a quick cleaning on a family heirloom. Our client list and resume is also full of very satisfied clients of large, difficult/complicated projects at remote locations. Excellent services are also available as an Expert Witness/Legal Testimony in art related matters. Consultation on art related projects occur regularly including extensive insurance evaluations for insured or insurer. Services are offered worldwide. Scott M. Haskins is also author of the "Save Your Stuff" series, educational information, materials and supplies to help people protect and save their treasured family heirlooms and collectibles at home and office. He can be reached at 805 564 3438. Video and written testimonials at https://www.fineartconservationlab.com/testimonials/
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2 Responses to Can AI Artwork Classifications and NFT Tech Contribute To Protect Cultural Heritage?

  1. Elle W says:

    I can’t help but wonder the extent to which the value that AI brings to the cataloging of art will be negated by the generation of digital forgeries. Already we have seen the digital catalogs documenting artists styles used to generate false pieces which are easy to identify as ‘belonging’ to artists who have nothing to do with their creation. A less informed or less curious viewer it will be easy fooled into believing that AI generated ‘masterpieces’ really belong to those artists. I can see a potential for this to be used to create a false internet trail of information authenticating fake works and tricking potential buyers.

    • You are probably right Elle but there are ways to avoid or reveal the fraud. In fact, the documentation to support authenticity, originality, authorizations, artist’s rights etc is one of the strong points of NFT tech.

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