Sotheby’s auction house recently made history by selling the first piece of artwork created by a humanoid robot using artificial intelligence (AI) for an impressive $1 million. The artwork, titled A.I. God. Portrait of Alan Turing (2024), far exceeded its estimated value of $120,000 to $180,000, fetching $1,084,800 at the auction.
The portrait, created by Ai-Da Robot, a humanoid robot artist, was inspired by mathematician and computer scientist Alan Turing, known for his groundbreaking work in artificial intelligence. The 64-inch by 90-inch mixed-media piece on canvas attracted 27 bids during the Digital Art day sale on November 7. Ai-Da Robot employs a combination of cameras in its eyes, AI algorithms, and a robotic arm to create art.
“This auction marks a significant moment in the art world, where Ai-Da’s work brings attention to the societal and artistic transformations occurring as AI continues to evolve,” said Aidan Meller, the U.K.-based art dealer and creator of Ai-Da. “The A.I. God piece raises important questions about agency and power as AI technology continues to grow.”
Ai-Da Robot, named after Ada Lovelace, the pioneering computer programmer, has drawn attention for its unique ability to blend technology and creativity. The robot is often depicted with a black bob wig, dressed in a t-shirt and denim overalls.
Sotheby’s vice president and digital art expert Michael Bouhanna commented on the growing demand for AI-based art. “After engaging with key collectors at the intersection of art and technology, it was clear there was significant interest in Ai-Da’s A.I. God portrait,” Bouhanna said. “While there’s limited historical data to gauge the market for singular AI works, demand for this piece was undeniably strong.”
The artwork had previously been displayed at the AI for Good Global Summit held at the United Nations in Geneva in May 2024, where it was featured as part of a five-panel Polyptych.
The auction result for Ai-Da’s portrait made up a significant portion of Sotheby’s Digital Art day sale, which totaled $1,485,840. Other notable works included pieces by digital artists such as Refik Anadol, PAK, and Xcopy. However, the highest-estimated work, Xcopy’s DOOM Party, did not sell at the auction.