The Evening Standard plans to use AI to revive Brian Sewell, a prominent art critic, to critique a new van Gogh exhibition as it shifts from daily to weekly publication after significant layoffs.
The Evening Standard, a notable newspaper in London, is reportedly planning to resurrect the influential British art critic Brian Sewell in an AI format following significant staff cuts and a shift to weekly publishing. Sewell, who passed away in 2015, was acclaimed for his sharp reviews and distinctive style during his long tenure at the Standard. Sources indicate that the AI version of Sewell will begin by critiquing a new exhibition at The National Gallery focused on Vincent van Gogh. However, details surrounding how this AI will be created and whether the Standard has secured permission from Sewell’s estate is unclear. This move comes as the Standard navigates financial restructuring, which has seen around 150 employees laid off, including numerous editorial staff. The paper plans to transition to a weekly format following the cessation of its daily press operations in an effort to remain relevant in the modern media landscape.
The Evening Standard is undergoing a major transformation as it shifts from daily publishing to a weekly format due to financial pressures, which included layoffs. The revival of Brian Sewell through AI exemplifies the newspaper’s innovative yet controversial approach to maintain its legacy and engage readers with historical perspectives on art criticism. Sewell was known for his provocative critiques, including statements about modern artists, which could add a distinct edge to the AI’s reviews.
The Evening Standard’s plan to utilise AI to bring back Brian Sewell signifies a bold step in modern journalism, sparking debate over ethics and creativity in media. As the publication transitions to a weekly model, it aims to retain its rich heritage through the lens of AI, despite facing criticism and challenges amidst significant staff redundancies.
Original Source: deadline.com