One thing I’ve noticed about my initial forays into generative AI is that these bots like to make stuff up. Not especially creative or interesting stuff, but rather fictional scenarios that could be true.

I decided to try a little experiment and ask ChatGPT to write a short bio of myself based on nothing more than “Kitty Ireland who lives in Seattle, WA.” Here’s what it made up:

My AI-generated fake bio

Kitty Ireland is a vibrant and accomplished individual who calls Seattle, Washington her home. Born and raised in the Emerald City, Kitty has developed a deep connection with the city’s diverse culture and breathtaking natural surroundings. She thrives on the energy and creativity that Seattle offers, making it an integral part of her personal and professional journey.

Kitty is a versatile and passionate artist, specializing in mixed media and abstract expressionism. Her artwork is known for its bold use of colors, textures, and innovative techniques. Kitty’s creative process is deeply rooted in her experiences and emotions, resulting in visually captivating pieces that evoke a wide range of emotions in viewers.

Beyond her artistic endeavors, Kitty is also an avid advocate for environmental conservation and sustainable living. She actively engages with local organizations dedicated to preserving Seattle’s natural beauty and works tirelessly to promote eco-friendly practices in her community. With a strong belief in the power of education and awareness, Kitty regularly conducts workshops and exhibits to inspire others to take action for a greener future.

In addition to her artistic and environmental pursuits, Kitty is a dedicated yoga practitioner. She finds solace and balance on her mat, using yoga as a means to enhance her physical well-being and spiritual connection. Kitty often combines her passion for art and yoga by organizing community events that fuse the two disciplines, creating unique and transformative experiences for participants.

Kitty Ireland’s contributions to Seattle’s vibrant arts and environmental scenes have earned her recognition and respect from both the local community and beyond. Her artwork has been exhibited in numerous galleries, and she has received accolades for her commitment to sustainability and activism. With her boundless creativity, unwavering dedication, and love for her city, Kitty continues to leave an indelible mark on Seattle’s cultural landscape.

What’s wrong with this picture?

Most of this is so far off base that it is laughable, but there is still an unexpected kernel of truth. And weirdly it almost feels like, “this is who I’m supposed to be.”

I am not a mixed media or abstract expressionist artist. I have never had a gallery show. But I did go to art school in the early 1990s. Could ChatGPT know that and draw the conclusion that by now I am a successful artist?

I am not an environmental activist, beyond trying to recycle and occasionally sending money to the World Wildlife Fund or the Sierra Club. I have never attended a local environmental activism event, much less conducted workshops and exhibits to inspire a greener future. But, you know what? I would. I care about nature and the environment enough to do something like that.

And finally, the yoga. OK, yes, I do yoga pretty much every morning. Did it put this in because a middle-aged white lady in Seattle is by default a yoga enthusiast? I really cannot think of one bit of public data that would lead it to these conclusions.

Despite being totally inaccurate, I somehow find this all a bit too close to home. Particularly the artist part. How could this machine know that I once thought visual art was my calling? And how could it not know that I’ve never actually produced art in a public way? I’m flummoxed.

I mean, it could have just as easily assumed that I’m a Program Manager at Microsoft or a High School English teacher. It could have assumed I’m a runner who helps out at the food bank. But no, it chose things that are much closer to my heart and soul. How did it know?