Embrace or Resist: Public Opinion of AI Art in the Age of Sora

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in the art world, fostering new avenues for creativity and challenging traditional notions of artistic authenticity. In 2024 February, the release of Sora by OpenAI symbolized a major breakthrough in the quality of AI-Generated Content (AIGC), calling for new study of up-to-date technique advancement. The aim of this study is to examine how public perceptions of AI art have evolved in the context of Sora's release and to identify the possible contributing factors, such as the release of Sora and media framing. A mixed-methods approach, using both qualitative tools (MDCOR and SENA) and qualitative analysis (digital ethnography), was employed to draw insights from YouTube comments. Findings indicate that Soras release contributes to a broader range of public opinion and a trend of positive sentiment. Topics discussed by the public shift from the use of AI in the artistic creation process to the multidimensional applications of AI art products across diverse industries and their consequent social impacts. The majority of people hold a more positive attitude, particularly in terms of trust, towards AI art, while some artists express fear of job replacement and ethical issues. Media framing of political preference and professional interests also plays an important role in shaping public opinion of AI art. This study carries several implications for policymakers, artists, and technologists, and advocates legislative protection for human creators while fostering innovation.