how to look at brainrot

What do you feel when I ask you to compare these two images?The first is an AI-generated picture of Tung Tung Tung Sahur, and the second is Mystery and Melancholy of a Street by Giorgio de Chirico. The former is widely derided as “internet brainrot,” while the latter is widely considered an artistic masterpiece.Depending on your digital literacy and sense of humor, you might find the first picture funny, or irritating, or confusing. You know that it is an AI meme, so you probably view it as “low art” unworthy of further inspection.The second picture, meanwhile, invites contemplation. The long shadows and dreamlike landscape create an unsettling atmosphere. The ominous scene can spark anxiety, terror, or queasiness. The painting has clear artistic merit, so you probably view it as “high art.”You might already be offended by where I’m going with this juxtaposition. Perhaps you’re morally opposed to generative AI, or think it shouldn’t be held in the same esteem as a carefully detailed,…