The rise of artificial intelligence is changing how we make art, and CalArts, a school known for pushing creative boundaries, is addressing this head-on.
Like many technologies before it, AI presents both exciting possibilities and tricky questions. Our statement, written by a group of faculty and staff from across the Institute, outlines core principles of how we plan to approach AI, focusing on keeping human creativity at the center while exploring these new tools responsibly.
Artificial Intelligence in Creative Practice
Spring 2025
CalArts Community Statement
As a community of artists, CalArts acknowledges that artificial intelligence represents another multifaceted development in our creative toolkit, much like the many technological shifts our community has embraced throughout our history. We recognize that AI systems can generate various forms of content, including images, language, code, voice, and video, through the processing of existing data - often raising complex questions about attribution, privacy, and ethical use. Schools and programs will develop specific guidelines that align with their artistic and pedagogical goals.
As we navigate the evolving landscape of AI tools, our implementation approach emphasizes honest conversations and trust-building rather than rigid rules. While AI has no inherent awareness of truth or creativity, it can serve as a productive tool when used thoughtfully. We commit to regular community dialogue to assess and update these guidelines as AI capabilities and creative applications continue to evolve. To support this commitment, we will continue to develop practical guides that address emerging uses of AI across our community while maintaining our focus on breaking down barriers and fostering artistic innovation.
Core Community Principles
Human-centered creativity: Our community maintains that human creativity and artistic vision remain essential and central to our practice. While AI offers new possibilities for creation and exploration, it is the human artist who brings critical thinking, emotional depth, and innovative vision to their work.
Fluid and adaptive approach: Just as CalArts has historically embraced exploration, we approach AI with flexibility and openness. Each program within our community may develop specific guidelines that serve their unique artistic and pedagogical needs. We acknowledge that AI and its applications are rapidly evolving, and our approach must remain adaptable.
Equity and access: Our community is committed to equitable access to AI tools. Through institutional resources like Google Gemini and Adobe Creative Cloud, we ensure that all community members have access to AI tools while maintaining data protection standards.
Transparency and documentation: While maintaining our commitment to artistic freedom, we expect community members to approach AI use with transparency. Documentation of AI involvement in creative work helps maintain trust and integrity, particularly in identifying source materials and AI tools used in the creative process. The specific requirements for citation or documentation will be determined at the course level.
Experiential learning: We encourage non-punitive, creative experimentation with AI tools. Our community views AI as an opportunity for exploration and criticality rather than a challenge to be regulated. Faculty are encouraged to design assignments that thoughtfully incorporate or restrict AI use based on specific learning objectives.
