Chapter 1 The Challenge of AI in Creative Fields

The essence of creating is often unnoticed and, alarmingly, being taken away from us.

AI technology has developed the capability to generate music, create artwork, compose stories, and design logos, presenting itself as an imitator of human creativity. This advancement is undoubtedly advantageous for businesses, as it enhances efficiency and lowers costs—priorities in the commercial landscape. However, what does this mean for the creative process itself?

"Creativity is inventing, experimenting, growing, taking risks, breaking rules, making mistakes, and having fun."

— Mary Lou Cook

Reflecting on Mary Lou Cook's insightful words, I've come to see AI in a different light. By allowing AI to perform the creative tasks we cherish, we risk losing the fundamental joys of creation in pursuit of productivity. While our society thrives on consumption, it is crucial to remember that creativity should offer us the freedom to express ourselves.

While we can certainly innovate and experiment with AI, can we genuinely challenge conventions? If our only contribution is to direct a computer within specific guidelines, can we claim ownership of any errors made? And what about the joy of creativity? The thrill of witnessing AI-generated masterpieces is akin to the fleeting pleasure we derive from social media notifications—exciting but ultimately superficial.

The Bhagavad Gita provides a profound perspective relevant to this discussion:

"You have a right to perform your prescribed duties, but you are not entitled to the fruits of your actions. Never consider yourself to be the cause of the results of your activities, nor be attached to inaction."

— Bhagavad Gita

This idea of detachment from outcomes applies beautifully to creativity. If we shift our focus from results to the sheer act of creating, we would likely rediscover the joy in our work. The motivation to create more would emerge naturally, driven by the enjoyment of the process itself.

But how can we find enjoyment when AI is doing the heavy lifting? As a Graphic Designer, I often find myself tasked with fulfilling a client's vision, which can sometimes feel more mechanical than creative. In this scenario, I resemble AI, while the client acts as the prompt engineer. Are either of us genuinely enjoying the creative journey?

Returning to Mary Lou Cook's words, how can we evolve as artists if we are not allowed to fail, make mistakes, or challenge the status quo? What expectations can we have of AI in this regard?

Corporate creativity often results in uninspired advertisements, bland slogans, and monotonous thinking. It may be time to reconsider the immense value of creativity in human nature and the ease with which we trade it for a momentary thrill from AI-generated outcomes. Perhaps what we truly need is more human involvement, not less.

Chapter 2 Exploring the Role of AI in Art Creation

This video titled "Generative AI is stealing your art, so are humans…" features Christina McKay discussing the implications of AI in the art world.

In "How does AI REALLY Steal Art?" the video delves deeper into the complexities of AI's impact on artistic expression.