AI’s Impact on the creative process
I want to start by saying that AI has made a major impact on the creative process. More than ever, individuals have the power to create something quickly. Going from an idea to a fleshed-out concept to completion has never been faster. As a visual species, nothing is more effective than seeing something come to life. But with that speed comes a caveat: we risk losing the part that makes creative endeavors worthwhile—the journey.
Retaining your passion the process
A good story needs tension; the hero’s journey requires conflict, struggle, and resolution. Without that, the story is lifeless and offers no payoff at the end. The current state of AI is fueled by the need for speed. It’s often built on pre-existing solutions, which robs us of the unique perspective required to craft the next unheard-of idea.
Art is rebellious; it’s learning the rules so we can break them. But if we only build on preconceived rules, we are no longer truly “creative.” We’re simply adding to the noise of repetition. Without trial and error, the reward at the end feels less satisfying.
Art is rebellious; it’s learning the rules so we can break them.
So how do we combat this outcome? We use AI as a tool, not a crutch. We learn the craft first, then use AI to amplify what we already know. As creatives, it’s our responsibility to express ourselves authentically. The world still needs our unique voices—perhaps now more than ever.
A checklist to keep you honest with yourself
The next time you work on something, ask yourself these questions:
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Am I leaning too much on a speedy solution?
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Do I truly understand the problem I am trying to solve?
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Am I adding my uniqueness to the deliverable?
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Is this moving the craft forward?
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Am I actually expressing myself?
If you can’t answer “yes” to at least one of these, it may be worth rethinking your approach. Creativity has always been about the journey, and while AI can speed things up, it’s up to us to make sure the destination is still worth reaching.