Ai-Da becomes world’s first humanoid robot artist
A humanoid AI android called Ai-Da has been unveiled as the world’s first robot artist ahead of its debut exhibition at the University of Oxford.
Named after the mathematician Ada Lovelace, the robot was revealed during a press conference at the university’s Lady Margaret Hall College on Wednesday.
A selection of its work also went on display, including geometric pieces in blue and green as well as black and white images of the human head.
Ai-Da also showcased its pencil-work, using a robot hand developed by engineers in Leeds in front of an audience.
Artworks in the solo exhibition, entitled Unsecured Future, also include drawings, paintings, sculpture and video art.
The collection aims to explore the boundaries between AI, technology and organic life.
Ai-Da’s creators say it is the first ultra-realistic robot capable of drawing people from life using its eye and a pencil in its hand.
Aidan Meller, Ai-Da’s brainchild and a gallery owner, has described his creation as “pioneering a new AI art movement”.
Manufactured by Engineered Arts in Cornwall, Ai-Da was completed in April this year.
Its body is capable of an expressive range of movements and features realistic silicone skin, 3D printed teeth and gums and eye cameras.
Ai-Da’s solo exhibition Unsecured Futures runs from June 12 until July 6 at St John’s College, University of Oxford.
