A portrait of the legendary WWII codebreaker Alan Turing, painted by the AI humanoid robot Ai-Da, has made history by selling for a remarkable $1,084,800 at auction. The sale, conducted by Sotheby’s, marks the highest price ever fetched for a piece of art created by an AI-powered humanoid. The painting, titled AI God: Portrait of Alan Turing, far surpassed its estimated value of $120,000 to $180,000.
Ai-Da, developed by British gallerist Aidan Meller, was launched in 2019 to blend technology and artistry. The robot, equipped with a black bob haircut, robotic arms, and advanced cameras, is designed to replicate human-like creativity. These cameras enable Ai-Da to scan images, sketch, and paint, allowing her to create intricate portraits like Turing’s. The AI artist took between six and eight hours to complete each section of Turing’s face, ensuring that every detail was captured with precision before assembling the final portrait on a larger canvas using 3D printing technology.
Meller views Ai-Da’s work as a reflection of the growing role AI will play in shaping our future, particularly in areas of creativity and decision-making. “This is more than just an artwork,” Meller said, highlighting the broader societal implications of the piece. “Ai-Da’s creation is a mirror to where we’re going.” Ai-Da herself seemed to acknowledge the forward-looking nature of the work, stating, “Alan Turing recognized this potential, and stares at us, as we race toward a future shaped by AI.”
Ai-Da’s prominence has grown significantly in recent years. The robot artist has participated in international events, including the United Nations Global Summit on AI for Good, where she engaged in discussions about the future of AI and its impact on society. Her recognition in the art world and beyond is a testament to her role in opening up important conversations about artificial intelligence and human creativity.
The portrait of Alan Turing, which features fragmented elements and dark, abstract colours, is a tribute to his groundbreaking contributions to computer science and the field of artificial intelligence. In the background, the artwork incorporates motifs related to Turing’s wartime work, including his famous Bombe Machine used for codebreaking. The painting was purchased by an undisclosed buyer, marking another significant moment in the growing intersection of technology, art, and society.