Italy has once again found a new way to promote its tourism industry by appointing Sandro Botticelli’s “The Birth of Venus” as its new ambassador. The Italian masterpiece, painted during the Renaissance era, has been brought to life using AI technology and is now featured in a promotional video showcasing the country’s breathtaking destinations.
The iconic painting, created by Botticelli in 1488, is one of the most famous works of art in the world, with its depiction of the goddess of love and beauty emerging from the sea foam on a giant clamshell. The Uffizi Gallery in Florence currently holds the original artwork, which still symbolizes beauty and elegance today.
With the help of AI technology, the “Venus” has been given a modern twist, showcasing her beauty while wearing a mini skirt and enjoying a pizza in a terrace overlooking Lake Como. In the promotional video, she also takes selfies in St. Mark’s Square in Venice and rides a bike in front of the Colosseum in Rome.
The Italian Ministry of Tourism expressed its enthusiasm for the new tourism ambassador, saying that “Venus will lead all foreign visitors to discover Italy and its beauty, from the most famous cities to the most hidden corners.” The ministry hopes that the ambassador will attract more tourists to the country and highlight its beauty and culture.
“Venus” has even opened up her own Instagram account and has introduced herself as a virtual influencer, stating that she is “thirty years old, or maybe a little older.” The use of AI technology has allowed this iconic painting to become a virtual influencer and a new symbol for Italian tourism.
However, not everyone is happy about the campaign, with some criticizing the government’s use of 9 million euros (approximately $10.6 million) for the promotion as an unnecessary expense. Despite this, the government remains optimistic that the new tourism ambassador will be a success and help promote Italy’s tourism industry.