AI AF: A Creative’s Unlikely Sidekick.
In a world where clickbait and misinformed panic, or perhaps misguided panic, is the norm, I am here to advocate for AI in the creative space. But with everything else trying to push for the black and white perspective on AI being the worst thing to happen to the creative process since the print press, it seems to be a hard sell due to the natural response to question change and new technology.
Initially, I was incredibly hesitant to give AI a try. For months, I just typed in a few basic inquiries to test its limits. But as I embarked on a project that required extensive research—dates, prices, historical significance, and more—the capabilities and ease of gathering these details with AI became crystal clear. Typing in sporadic questions and watching AI learn my preferred format for information has streamlined one of the longest aspects of my creative process.
As someone newly diagnosed with neurodivergent traits affecting my organization and communication, AI has been an incredible tool. It's helping me rewire and relearn skills I didn't realize I was struggling with.
When it comes to AI in design, I see AI-generated images as a great first step for artists. Need a robot to generate a few rough drafts? Absolutely! But AI-generated art should not be the final product. I've seen AI-generated visuals in print and video that, without human tweaking and molding, fall flat and lack depth. I attended a concert where I would be shocked if more than 15% of the backing visuals were originated outside of an AI video creation program. While a lot of the content was intended to be edgy and off-kilter, there was a lack of purpose and depth that took away from the powerful performance of the band and ultimately landed flat despite visually looking dynamic.
In essence, I support using AI in the creative process—as part of the process, not the entire process. Creatives who support creatives, be diligent in what you include in your completed projects. Dynamic composition can be replicated, but there's no replacement for the human experience and the soul behind it.