A new kind of artist has entered the world stage. Ai-Da, the planet’s first robot artist, recently unveiled a portrait of King Charles III. This unique artwork was created using a robotic arm and smart computer programs, grabbing attention at a major United Nations event.
The painting, named “Algorithm King,” is an oil work on canvas. Ai-Da brought it to life with her robotic arm, guided by advanced artificial intelligence. Cameras built into her eyes helped her see and create the image. This special portrait was first shown at the UK Permanent Representation to the World Trade Organization and the United Nations in Geneva. It was a highlight of the 2025 “AI for Good” Summit, an event organized by the United Nations. Plans are set for “Algorithm King” and other portraits of global leaders to travel and be shown in many countries throughout 2026.
Aidan Meller, who directs the Ai-Da Robot Project, admits that reactions to the painting have been mixed. Some people are truly excited about how quickly technology is changing society. Others, however, feel a sense of unease or even fear. Meller views this as a natural part of our current era, calling it a clear “Fourth Industrial Revolution.” He believes we all must face these changes.
This isn’t Ai-Da’s first time painting a monarch. She previously created “Algorithm Queen,” a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, to mark her 70th year on the throne. Ai-Da also made history in 2024 when one of her paintings sold for a remarkable one million U.S. dollars at a Sotheby’s auction. The robot artist was created with a clear purpose: to get people talking and thinking about the growing role of artificial intelligence in our daily lives.
Source: AP