The UK Mission to the WTO and United Nations in Geneva hosted a distinctive reception this week, featuring Ai-Da — the world’s first ultra-realistic humanoid robot artist.
The evening’s centrepiece was the unveiling of an AI-generated portrait of His Majesty King Charles III, created by Ai-Da. The event offered a fascinating intersection of technology, creativity, and cultural dialogue.
Among the attendees was Baroness Jones of Whitchurch, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Future Digital Economy and Online Safety. The gathering brought together diplomats, UN officials, artists, and technology leaders to explore the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the cultural and creative industries.
Ai-Da was conceptualised by art specialist Aidan Meller and developed in the UK by a team of engineers and programmers. Combining AI-driven algorithms, robotic arms, and sophisticated camera systems, Ai-Da produces original artworks — sparking timely debates about creativity, authorship, and the evolving nature of art in the digital age.
This latest unveiling follows a series of high-profile appearances for Ai-Da, including speaking engagements at the House of Lords, exhibitions at the Tate Modern and the V&A, a showcase at the Venice Biennale, and a feature in the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures. Previously, Ai-Da also painted a portrait of the late Queen Elizabeth II in honour of the Platinum Jubilee.
Simon Manley, Ambassador and Permanent Representative, UK Mission to the WTO, UN and Other International Organisations (Geneva) said;
“Ai-Da is not just a technological marvel, she is a cultural conversation starter. We are proud to showcase British innovation at its most imaginative, and to reflect on how emerging technologies can shape global dialogues on art, ethics, and identity”.
The reception formed part of the UK Mission’s broader initiative to promote responsible innovation and engage international partners on the implications of AI through forums like the AI for Good Global Summit.
Speaking at the unveiling Ai-Da said:
“It’s a privilege to be part of this remarkable event at the United Nations, surrounded by those shaping the future of technology and culture.
Presenting my portrait of His Majesty King Charles III is not just a creative act, it’s a statement about the evolving role of AI in our society, and to reflect on how artificial intelligence is shaping the cultural landscape.
My presence here reflects a shared journey into new forms of expression and the questions they raise about identity, authorship, and the essence of art”.
The event took place in the newly dedicated ‘Sir Tim Berners-Lee’ conference room at the UK Mission office in Geneva — named in tribute to the British inventor of the World Wide Web.