AI and digital Buddhist sculpture: Performance, roles, and technology acceptance based on the TAM framework in the context of Thai arts and culture
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Abstract
The objectives of this study are to: 1) assess the efficiency of an AI system created for producing digital Buddhist sculptures; 2) investigate the role of AI in the context of Thai art and culture; and 3) assess the acceptance of AI technology by digital sculpture designers. A total of 180 undergraduate students (novice designers) and 30 professional digital Buddha sculptors were surveyed using quantitative methods. In addition to the surveys, a qualitative assessment was performed through interviews with nine subject matter experts. The results of the efficiency assessment indicate that the AI system has high accuracy, produces designs quickly, and provides support for designers in creating complex designs. The findings in relation to the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) demonstrate that perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use will have a significant impact on users’ intention to adopt the technology. Results of the qualitative assessments demonstrate that the AI system is able to create sculptures that adhere to Thai Buddhist artistic codes and symbols to some degree; however, expert guidance is necessary to maintain the spiritual significance and semantic meaning of the artwork. Thus, when applying AI in Thai art and culture, it is recommended that collaborations be established between the developers of AI systems and experts in the field of Thai art and culture to ensure the integrity of the culture. AI should be utilized as a complementary tool to augment designers’ creative process in a sustainable manner.
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