Art, Space, and Epoxy: Martin Eichinger at the Reno Tahoe International Art Show

by Martin Eichinger

At the Reno Tahoe International Art Show, I had the chance to showcase my latest work alongside some truly talented artists. Walking through the exhibition hall, it was inspiring to see the range of pieces—from sculpture to painting to craft—and to connect with artists who bring such unique perspectives to their work.

I joined Varvàra Fern on a panel discussion on “AI and Sculpture” earlier in the day, a sculptor with a strong narrative in her pieces. She dives into themes like fairy tales and trauma, blending her past experiences with mythic storytelling.

Karl Lansing also spoke, touching on the irreplaceable human element in art. He’s right: there’s something we deliver through our hands and our craft that AI just can’t replicate.

Showing the translucency of Amorphous Polymer to a visitor of our booth.

At my own booth, I displayed a new series of epoxy polymer sculptures, inspired by space and the James Webb Space Telescope. I call them “Amorphous Polymer,” and their abstract forms reflect the universe’s vastness.

The pieces are all two-sided, each face offering something different, a nod to the dynamic energy in space that I wanted to capture.

Left to right: The Edge of Nova, Nebula Explosion, Out of The Void

One piece, Nebula Explosion, captures the burst of a star factory, a scene of immense power and scale. It served as the inspiration for a large polycarbonate display that was suspended above the booth. I’ve always been drawn to working with polycarbonate and epoxy, tough and versatile materials that let me explore layers, textures, and new technologies.

A polycarbonate reproduction of Nebula Explosion for the Reno Tahoe International Art Show 2024

This shift from bronze to epoxy has been an interesting evolution for me. I displayed one bronze at RTIA just to show the history of my work, but I’m embracing this newer medium, especially in expressing the cosmic theme. There’s something about space that compels me—the mystery, the infinite scale—and I try to bring that into each piece.

We had a great show with strong interest from collectors and artists alike. Once this work returns to Portland, it’ll be back on display at Art at the Geode Gallery, where I hope it continues to invite people to explore and wonder about the universe.

Can AI Sculpt the Soul of Art?

Reno Tahoe International Art Show 2024 - Panel on the impact of AI on Sculpture

I recently had the privilege of joining a panel discussion at the Reno Tahoe International Art Festival, expertly hosted by Lance Glasser, who guided us through a deep dive into the impact of AI on sculpture. It was a fascinating and important conversation, one that delved into how this rapidly evolving technology might affect the future of our fine art form. As a sculptor who has spent decades honing my skills, I’ve been thinking a lot about how AI might influence the work we do, both creatively and commercially.

The panel featured some incredibly talented artists, including Adrian Landon, Varvàra Fern, and Karl Lansing. Each brought their own perspective on AI’s potential to change the art world. One of the key themes of our discussion was whether AI threatens the authenticity of our art or if it can serve as a useful tool to enhance the creative process.

Left to right: Martin Eichinger and Karl Lansing speak on the impact of AI on Sculpture at RTIA 2024

On AI’s Role in Art

Most of the collectors I speak with say they’d lose confidence in an artist’s integrity if they discovered AI was heavily involved in creating the work. That sentiment stuck with me. There’s a trust between the artist and the collector, and I worry that AI might undermine that trust. For me, great art comes from a unique vision, one that AI can’t replicate because it only looks backward, not forward.

Karl Lansing’s Concerns

Karl raised a valid concern about where the line is drawn between an artist’s work and the machine’s contribution. He explained how he could physically alter a sculpture, like

repositioning a moose, but AI might one day be able to do that with the click of a button. As he said, “At what point do I ask myself, is that my creation, or is that a machine creating it for me?” His fear is that the art loses its life when AI handles the heavy lifting.

Left to right: Adrian Landon and Varvàra Fern speaking on the impact of AI on Sculpture at RTIA 2024

Varvàra Fern’s Perspective

Varvàra had an interesting take. She’s used AI as a tool, but primarily as a reference, like a virtual assistant. As she put it, “I don’t think I would ever ask AI to generate work for me because I want to do it myself. It’s the fun part. I don’t want to give it to somebody else.” She emphasized that AI can speed up some of the more tedious processes, like tweaking proportions, but it can never replace the joy of creation for her.

Adrian Landon’s Call for Transparency

Adrian echoed a concern many of us have about honesty in the art world. He argued that there should be regulations around disclosing how much AI is used in creating a piece. “There should be some standards... It should be labeled to what percentage is the final product aided by AI or not.” For Adrian, it’s about allowing buyers to make informed decisions about the value and authenticity of the work.

Final Thoughts

What I walked away with from this discussion is the belief that AI is a tool—but a tool that requires careful consideration. I’m skeptical that AI can ever truly create “great” art, but I acknowledge that it has its place in the creative process. As artists, it’s our responsibility to ensure that our work remains authentic and true to our vision, even as technology advances.

A special thanks to Lance Glasser for organizing and moderating this insightful panel. His thoughtful guidance helped us navigate a complex topic and explore how AI might shape the future of sculpture.

What do you think—can AI ever truly create great art, or will it always require the hand and vision of a human?

Join us on Monday, October 21st, for an Arts & Politics Focused Evening!

"We believe that our town would be healthier if there was more focus on the values that the arts provide. We also believe that our politicians can have a lot to say and do to encourage a creative culture. At one time Portland was known for its creative culture.Now, not so much." -m.c.e.

We’re hosting a special gathering to discuss the future of the arts in our political dialogue, and we’d love for you to be part of it. This is a chance to connect with others who care deeply about the importance of art and culture and hear directly from two of our candidates. This discussion might be interesting even if you are not in Portland proper.We’re hosting a special gathering to discuss the future of the arts in our political dialogue, and we’d love for you to be part of it. This is a chance to connect with others who care deeply about the importance of art and culture and hear directly from two of our candidates. This discussion might be interesting even if you are not in Portland proper.

Featuring:

• Jesse Cornett, Candidate for Portland City Council, District 3

• Laura Streib, Candidate for District 2

When: Monday, October 21st, 7 PM

Where: Eichinger Sculpture Studio, 2516 SE Division St., Portland OR 97202

Please RSVP to let us know if you wish to join us. We’d be delighted to see you there! 503-223-0626