Reframing Art Education: Addressing AI Ethics with Everyday Creativity

Abstract

This article translates the principles of AI ethics into actionable implementations for K-12 art education, framed by the practices of artist Helmut Smits. Smits discusses his transformative use of everyday objects in works like Rainbow Windshield and Screen Time to question traditional notions of originality and authorship. This article describes workshop activities that use generative AI tools to promote critical thought and ethical awareness for students as prescribed in the U.S. National Visual Arts Standards (NVAS). Through themes of data usage, bias, and creative ownership, the workshops guide students to think responsibly through the evolving digital landscape. The following article is intended to offer art educators tangible strategies for navigating ethical discussions in the classroom while potentially allowing them the tools to prepare students to become thoughtful and engaged digital citizens.