Evaluation of the use of artificial intelligence applications in painting art and art education from the perspective of art educators and art students

This study was conducted to determine the views of visual arts educators and visual arts students on the artistic quality of artificial intelligence applications and their usability in art education. The study was carried out using the "case study" design, one of the qualitative research methods, and included a total of fourteen art educators working at undergraduate, high school, and middle school levels, and twenty-six art students studying at undergraduate and high school levels in Bartın, Turkey. The research data were collected through interviews and information forms and were analyzed using the descriptive analysis method. The findings of the study revealed that art educators generally have a positive attitude toward artificial intelligence applications; however, some educators were found to be hesitant due to a lack of knowledge in this area. The perception that the artistic aspect of artificial intelligence is "artificial" and "emotionless," along with debates on originality, were frequently expressed by the participants. Additionally, it was anticipated that AI applications would become more widespread in the future; nevertheless, there was a shared belief that traditional production methods would continue to hold their importance. Art educators participating in the study generally supported the integration of AI applications into art education processes, with a prevailing view—especially at the undergraduate level—that these applications could attract students' interest and add contemporary relevance to course content. From the perspective of art education students, most participants were found to be knowledgeable about AI applications; however, some students had limited knowledge. A significant portion of informed students actively used these applications, primarily for coursework, assignments, and experimental purposes. Moreover, it was concluded that art education students could use AI applications as tools to facilitate idea and design development in artistic processes and to accelerate production. That said, some students expressed concerns that AI might diminish creativity, encourage dependency, and pose a threat to the creative fields of artists in the long run. In light of these results, it is considered crucial that the integration of AI into art and art education be conducted carefully and systematically, with proper planning and adequate infrastructure in line with technological advancements. Such an approach is expected to support student development both academically and pedagogically, contributing to the improvement of creative thinking and problem-solving skills. In this context, the inclusion of AI in art education is also seen as a valuable opportunity for updating educational programs and enriching teaching processes.