Evolution of AI: How it Might Replace Designers
Artificial intelligence is taking over the world. Well, at least a little.
While we may not be at the point where our silicon-based friends try to imprison us in a simulation so they can use us as batteries. We are at the point where we can create anime portraits with the help of AI.
In only a few years, AI tools using text prompts have come a long way. These seemingly simple tools have allowed users to create captivating artwork that rivals highly-skilled artists’ work. As research teams push to advance these AI tools, we will undoubtedly begin to see more of their utility as supplementary tools for both personal and professional use.
In this article, we will be taking a discerning look at the growing popularity of AI-generated art and what it could mean for the future of web design. Let’s get started!
The Growing Trend of AI-Generated Art
Social media is abuzz with posts about AI art.
On platforms like Twitter and YouTube, there are a large number of users posting everything from AI-generated time lapses to silly, and sometimes bizarre, memes. AI art has garnered a large amount of popularity — and criticism — due to recent advances in tools, such as DALL.E 2 and Midjourney. The reception is often one of amazement and intrigue as humans begin to realize just how good AI has become at replicating our creativity. But how does this affect the professional world?
Artificial Intelligence (A.I.) can be defined as a computer science that strives to reproduce intelligent behaviors in machines. While some may associate this with the sentient machines often depicted in science fiction, it is more in line with a computer program being taught how to complete complex tasks. For our purposes, we are taking a look at a subset of AI research that aims to develop AI that can replicate realistic graphics.
Currently, AI is being used across many fields, particularly the health and medical fields, and continues to see rapid development year after year. AI is often touted as one of the driving forces of the future of automation, where machines can handle not only physical tasks but creative and complex tasks as well.
In web design, AI may help to facilitate a quicker design process by cutting down on the time needed to create and select assets. This can range from compelling website images to simple icons and logos. All without the need for hiring a professional artist.
The excitement of what these tools could achieve ten or twenty years from now is palpable. However, there are always two sides to every coin and AI-generated art is no exception.
The AI-Generated Art Controversy
There’s one group in the mix who is not too keen on the idea of AI-generated art: Artists.
AI-generated art poses a real moral and professional dilemma for artists who make a living off of creating unique, skillful content. The fear is not an irrational one and is, in most cases, completely defendable. However, one could argue that every field evolves and goes through radical changes that force professionals to adapt to their surroundings and learn new skills. This has occurred throughout history and will continue to happen, especially as we soon enter the fourth industrial revolution.
Just as artists learned to adapt to a digital medium, so too will they learn to adapt to the inclusion of AI. Regardless of what the solution may be, it remains a talking point that is important to discuss moving forward. Additionally, a number of issues are popping up in regard to copyright.
The legality of AI-generated art is in an odd place at the moment. Many countries and U.S. states don’t have solid laws in place regarding the protection and ownership of art created primarily by artificial intelligence.
There are also a number of artists claiming that certain AI-generated art infringes on the copyright and style of their work. The copyright of creative pieces and works of art has always been a contentious dispute for humans. With the internet being such an open realm, some individuals are even creating direct replications of specific artists’ work without their express permission.
The legal landscape is a little messy right now. However, this could all prove to be the initial spark that forces us to take a deeper look at the legality of such a new technology. Now, that’s all well and good but how does AI affect web design?
Web Design and AI-Generated Art
Let’s take a look at the utility of AI-generated art in web design and development. As a helpful tool, AI-Generated imagery could be used as a replacement for images and backgrounds on a webpage.
For example, the AI-generated image below could function well as the background of a hero section or as the image of a product card.
By itself, the average user will not be able to tell the difference between a real photo and an AI-generated photo. Going further, you could use a tool like Midjourney to create dozens of variations to get something that fits your vision with very little work. Maybe a single bag on a blue background, a white background, or even with a specific engraving or lettering.
But it doesn’t stop there, this process can carry over to all kinds of websites and brands. Everything from pictures of dogs for an animal rescue website to fantasy artwork for a game development studio website. Completely cutting out the need for artists, photographers, or any other creative professional.
Another use for AI-generated graphics is found in the creation of visual assets such as logos, icons, profile art, UI elements, and more. In fact, DALL.E 2 has been used by some designers to show how detailed the AI logo design process is.
The final thought on everyone’s mind is: could it get to the point where I’m not even needed anymore? AI has the potential to make the life of a designer much easier, but it also brings the possibility that we are not worth the hassle when compared to a lightning-fast machine. The outcome is anybody’s guess and only time will tell if AI has a place in the web designer’s toolbox or if our toolbox will even be needed anymore.
Conclusion
The future of AI is full of potential. However, the implications of such rapid advancements in machine learning could prove to be a troubling facet for all types of designers and artists. All we can do is trust in our individual talents and the possibility of a new, exciting future. In the meantime, we can create some neat anime portraits.
Until next time.
