The Future of Visual Art Careers in the Age of AI
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Chapter 1 The Impact of AI on Visual Arts
Writing this piece presents a challenge for me. I graduated from the School of Visual Arts in NYC, where I began my career as a storyboard artist for commercial agencies. I later transitioned into illustration for marketing firms, eventually finding my niche in educational publishing. Today, I navigate the landscape of emerging technology strategies.
I share my professional journey not as an outsider but as someone who has made a living in the visual arts. My connection to the industry gives weight to my observations, especially as I note the potential decline of numerous familiar art careers.
The Rise of AI Art
Currently, the art sector is experiencing significant upheaval due to the advent of AI technologies, particularly text-to-image generators that are gaining traction across the internet. AI-generated artwork is nothing short of remarkable.
As these new processes and workflows become integrated into the visual arts, it is unavoidable that certain job roles will be supplanted. While established artists may continue to secure work due to their existing relationships and reputations, newcomers may find it increasingly difficult to break into these fields.
Fantasy & Sci-Fi Illustrators
One of the most visibly affected genres is fantasy and science fiction. A quick glance at the Midjourney community showcase reveals stunning artwork within this realm.
Portrait Photographers
The realm of portrait photography, especially for advertisements and marketing, is also at risk. AI-generated faces are not only highly realistic but can be nearly indistinguishable from actual individuals. A notable example is DALL-E2, which demonstrates impressive capabilities in portrait creation.
Unless a photoshoot features a celebrity, brands may find it easier to opt for AI-generated portraits. This shift could significantly disrupt the fashion modeling sector, particularly as AI can adapt clothing images seamlessly.
Graphic Novel & Comic Book Artists
The realm of graphic novels is already witnessing a surge in AI involvement, to the extent that the first AI-created graphic novel has been copyrighted in the U.S. Platforms like AIcomicbooks.com are emerging to facilitate the sale of these AI-generated comics.
Cover and Poster Artists
Notably, Cosmopolitan magazine was a pioneer in featuring an AI-generated cover. Other magazines are rumored to follow suit. While logos and text still face challenges, the layout can certainly be crafted with AI assistance, allowing for text adjustments in later stages.
Caricature Artists
AI technology is also adept at creating caricatures, which are popular in articles, memes, and more, offering a variety of artistic styles.
Travel Photographers
For travel agencies seeking images from various locales, AI can provide unique perspectives, whether featuring people or landscapes.
And Beyond...
The list of artistic roles at risk extends beyond those mentioned, encompassing concept artists, stock photographers, storyboard illustrators, and political cartoonists.
Final Thoughts
While this period may feel daunting for many artists, I want to close with an optimistic outlook regarding the rise of AI in art. Artists are inherently creative, and that creativity remains essential.
AI can serve as a powerful tool for artists, enabling them to explore novel artistic expressions and push boundaries that once seemed unattainable. As Claire Silver aptly puts it, "AI is the camera for the human imagination."
If you found this article enlightening, don't forget to follow for more insights on similar topics.
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