AI Art Sparks Debate at Santa Cruz Carnival
The Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival is at the center of a debate regarding AI's role in cultural events, as the Canary Islands Visual Arts Association calls for prioritizing human artists over generative technology.
A big discussion has started at the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival, one of Spain's most famous festivals, about artificial intelligence (AI) and how it's used in cultural events. This debate highlights the growing tension between new technology and the need to protect human artistic work, especially in public initiatives.
The Canary Islands Visual Arts Association (AICAV) has officially told local leaders, including Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez and Festival Councillor Javier Caraballero, about their concerns. They are worried about the increasing use of generative AI in content planned for the 2026 Carnival.
AICAV's main complaint focuses on the videos and images used during the Queen Election Gala. The association claims that both the opening promotional video and the visual backgrounds for the candidates were created using AI systems, rather than being commissioned from professional visual artists. AICAV also pointed out that this isn't a new issue, recalling past instances where AI was used for music themes and intros. Officials had previously explained these decisions by citing copyright complexities.
Artists worry that these official decisions could lead to a cultural production model where AI increasingly replaces professional artistic work. AICAV stressed that this directly impacts jobs in the arts and could weaken the local creative community. In their letter, the association reminded the city council about a 2024 guide from the Ministry of Culture. This guide specifically recommends prioritizing human creators over generative AI in public projects.
Given the City Council's significant role in shaping cultural policies, AICAV has urged an urgent review of this approach. The group advocates for a strategy that ensures local professionals are prioritized in future editions, making the Carnival an example of best practices that strengthens the Canarian creative ecosystem. The letter concluded with a call for dialogue with the arts sector. Their aim is to prevent technological innovation from making visual artists' jobs unstable on the islands, thereby preserving the unique collective identity of the Carnival.