Perth Voice Interactive

STIRLING has defended its use of artificial intelligence over resident artists after a local wit spotted a bodgied-up ad with a three-armed motorcyclist.

The City advertised a rider enhancement program on its Facebook page with an image generated through the Microsoft program Copilot.

“All workshop places were filled within 24 hours so the social media post was removed the day after it was published,” the City responded to Voice questions through an spokesperson.

But our eagle-eyed source says that’s not good enough.

“The same City which allegedly runs an art competition and other support for artists, relies on AI crap,” he said. “What hypocrisy.”

The council spokesperson said the art competition isn’t the only support artists receive.

“The City regularly engages local photographers and videographers to support the communication and marketing of events, initiatives and projects all over the city,” they said.

“The City supports local artists, photographers and creatives through a range of programs, including the Biennial Art Awards and Exhibition, regular Creatives + Connections networking and professional development workshops, and the Locally Led and Creative Communities stream of our Community Grants Program. 

“Artists are also supported through acquisitions and commissions, including for the City’s Visual Art and Public Art Collections.

“The City has taken a pragmatic approach to generative AI since it started exploring the potential benefits of the technology in October 2023,” they said.

“The policy aims to ensure the City manages ethical, privacy and security implications, while identifying opportunities and leveraging the benefits of AI for the City and its community.”

by STEVE GRANT