Young Artists Worry About a Future Supplanted by Generative AI
Freelance artist Nancy Aguilar and aspiring writer Katelyn Chang, both fellows at the San Francisco-based nonprofit Youth Leadership Institute, have expressed concerns about the growing presence of generative artificial intelligence in the creative industry.
Threat to Human Creatives
In their podcast series titled “The Creative Code,” Aguilar and Chang discuss how generative AI programs, such as MidJourney and OpenAI’s DALL-E, pose a threat to human artists. They highlight cases of copyright infringement and the potential economic harm faced by creatives as AI continues to evolve.
Challenges Faced by Young Creatives
Computer science professor Ben Zhao acknowledges the valid concerns raised by Aguilar and Chang, noting a decline in art college enrollments due to fears of automation replacing traditional creative roles. The use of generative AI in industries like animation has also raised concerns about job security for emerging artists.
Impact on the Creative Process
Aguilar and Chang's survey of over 100 young creatives aged 16 to 22 revealed mixed feelings towards generative AI. While some appreciate the efficiency it offers, others emphasize the unique emotional journey involved in human creativity, which AI may not fully replicate.
Call to Action
As they navigate the evolving landscape of AI in creativity, Aguilar and Chang stress the importance of staying informed and proactive. They urge fellow artists to engage with the technology and advocate for ethical practices in AI development.
Empowering Youth Voices
Supported by the Youth Leadership Institute, Aguilar and Chang aim to empower young artists from diverse backgrounds to voice their concerns and navigate the challenges posed by generative AI. Through their podcast series, they seek to spark conversations and drive awareness about the implications of AI in the creative industry.
The full podcast series can be accessed here.
