ABSTRACT
Understanding art involves far more than engaging with the surface level representation. Our appreciation is enriched by situating a work historically as well as by interrogating the process, methodologies, and intentions of the artist, even if we never arrive at definitive interpretations. With machine art, however, we tend to only evaluate the artefact, missing the potential of a richer understanding. A close reading of several neural network mechanisms comprising art-generating machines is provided to deepen appreciation of the artwork these non-humans create.
