AI's impact and influence are reshaping our world at breakneck speed. It's a technological revolution akin to the transformation of manufacturing enabled by the steam engine — a true game-changer redefining the creative landscape. As the Principal and Creative Director of Studiolo Secondari, a Design Agency in New York City, I've chosen to befriend this powerful force rather than fear it. Yet, like many in our industry, I can't help but harbor some reservations. Join me as we navigate this exhilarating—and sometimes unsettling—new frontier in design.

Ethical Considerations and Copyright Challenges

The Graphic Artists Guild, where I serve on the Board as Publisher, has taken a strong stance on the ethical implications of AI. We find it unconscionable that AI systems have consumed artists' creative intellectual property without consent, potentially diminishing their ability to make a living from their work. While we acknowledge that the proverbial genie is out of the bottle, we're urging governments and rights authorities to consider how creators can be fairly compensated for their loss of revenue and how to ensure these abuses do not continue in the future.

Creators should also understand that, at least currently, the status of artwork created with AI is unclear; most of it cannot be copyrighted. This has significant implications for those using AI to generate illustrations or other creative works. As we navigate this new terrain, the Guild is committed to engaging with businesses and the copyright office to address these issues.

AI as a Creative Tool

Despite these challenges, I don't view AI as inherently evil. In fact, it can be an incredibly useful tool when applied thoughtfully. In my own work, I've found AI helpful in streamlining tedious tasks. It's excellent for comparing proposals, generating meeting transcripts, and even assisting with the analysis needed for reports. In these ways I see it as “my AI friend”.

The Pressure of AI and Market Competition

The creative industry has been feeling pressure from various sources for years. Platforms like Upwork and TaskRabbit have already created a global marketplace where downward pressure is applied to pricing, and it seems to be a race to the bottom. Now, AI adds another layer to this competitive landscape. However, I believe the key to success is to differentiate the value we provide as human creators.

At the Graphic Artists Guild, we emphasize charging based on the value we provide our clients which is derived from our experience and skill,  not hourly rates. A human designer brings empathy, experience, and partnership that AI simply can't match. While some clients may opt for cheaper, AI-generated options, those seeking quality and comprehensive service will still value human creativity and expertise.

Looking to the Future

As we look ahead, it's clear that AI isn't going anywhere. For young artists and aspiring creatives, this might seem daunting. However, I firmly believe that well-trained craftspeople will always find a way to thrive. Just as the Industrial Revolution transformed manufacturing, it also gave rise to artisans like William Morris, who found success by embracing traditional craftsmanship. In our AI-driven world, there will always be a place for human perspective and skill. A solid foundation in the basics of your craft – whether it's graphic design, illustration, or any other creative field – will serve you well, even as the tools and technologies change. Like Morris and his contemporaries, those who master their craft and offer something uniquely human will find their niche, even in a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence.

Nonetheless, I try to be very polite to my AI friend in case he becomes my overlord at some point in the not-so-distant future. I recommend you do the same. ;-)

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By combining design thinking with process experience, Studiolo Secondari evaluates your ways of working, assesses how your audience feels about your brand or your website, and oversees those big design projects that you don’t have the capacity or ability to manage. And if you’re looking to drive storytelling and showcase your message to the world, we also provide full-service book design and production — from editorial and design to composition and manufacturing.