As AI technologies become more sophisticated, their influence on creative fields like design is undeniable. While some fear AI may replace human creativity altogether, Adip Mehta believes it presents a powerful opportunity for collaboration. Adip discusses that AI's ability to learn and generate creative content stems from the data it is trained on human-created works. In other words, AI's creativity is ultimately an extension of our own.
With the increasing integration of AI technologies in the creative process, some view AI as a valuable tool for enhancing creativity, while others express concerns about its potential to replace human creativity and jobs. How do you perceive the role of AI in design and creativity, and how do you navigate the balance between leveraging AI as a creative partner and preserving the human touch in your work?
I believe that one aspect that is often overlooked when it comes to AI is that it derives its creativity from humans. This is how machine learning works - AI constantly analyzes images and artworks to learn. Therefore, if humans stop being creative, AI will also lose its creative ability. It is true that automation will render many design jobs obsolete, but there is a silver lining. Take the loom for example - before the industrial revolution, cloth was made by hand and one unit could be produced in an hour. After inventions like the cotton gin, this capacity increased to 100 units an hour. Did the world become poorer? No, the textile industry actually flourished. A similar outcome can be expected in design - designers will be able to do much more and at a faster pace. However, it's important to remember that AI is only as good as the designer who commands it. This is where a designer's knowledge, understanding of composition, and ability to comprehend client needs will be crucial.
What are your thoughts on the potential impact of AI on creative jobs?
As technology advances, some jobs may become obsolete. However, new job opportunities or advancements in existing job roles will emerge. As a designer, it's wise to embrace these changes and learn how to incorporate AI tools into your work instead of avoiding them. If I were an employer and had to choose between two designers with equal skill sets, I would pick the one who is proficient in AI.
How can designers and creatives leverage AI technologies to stay relevant and competitive in an increasingly automated landscape? What skills or mindsets are essential for adapting to the changing nature of creative work?
Having knowledge and the ability to articulate oneself can make a significant difference when using AI. I have observed that some designers are able to extract more value from AI than others. The designers who can get more out of AI tend to be more well-read, with a deeper understanding of various art styles, cultures, and artists. They are also better at expressing what they want from AI, which makes their prompts more effective. It goes without saying that learning different AI tools is important, as every other Insta reel highlights.
As AI continues to advance, what advice would you give to emerging designers and creatives who are just entering the industry? How can they prepare themselves for the opportunities and challenges presented by AI technologies?
Wearing different hats is key. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not your enemy, it has made your life easier. You are no longer restricted by mundane tasks. So, learn new skills that will make you a more complete designer, such as 3D modelling, apparel design, and architecture. This way, you will be able to use AI in more interesting ways than a designer who is narrowly focused.
Can you share any specific examples or case studies where AI has been successfully integrated into the creative workflow, pushing boundaries and unlocking new possibilities?
There are many ways in which AI can be used to speed up tasks. Personally, I have used AI for making animatics, mockups, pre-visualization, mood boards, and inspirations, as well as ethical deepfakes. For instance, in the past, if I needed a model to pose on an aircraft carrier, it would have been done either by an extremely skilled compositor or by hiring a model to actually go to an aircraft carrier. However, now it's much easier and quicker with the help of AI. If I want to animate the model and make him say things, it's all done through AI. This is a good thing because it helps me achieve my goal much faster and more efficiently, just like the cotton gin.
