The use of AI-generated images is emerging as an innovative and challenging frontier. AI-generated images refer to visual content that is created using Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms and techniques. These images are generated through computational processes rather than being directly captured by a camera or created by human hands. AI-generated images have gained significant attention and traction across various fields, including design and visual communication, due to their ability to produce unique and often highly realistic visual content.
For example, in marketing and advertising, AI-generated images quickly produce campaign visuals. For instance, instead of organizing a photo shoot for a new product, AI can be used to generate high-quality images for promotional materials. For example, in June 2022, the magazine Cosmopolitan released a cover entirely created by AI. The editors collaborated with OpenAI, whose revolutionary DALL-E 2 AI created the image, and digital artist, Karen X. Cheng. The cover image was generated in 20 seconds and finalized within 24 hours, involving human interaction to lay out the text and adjust the proportions within the print cover. This marked the first time an AI-generated image was used as the cover of a major magazine, showcasing the potential of AI in the creative industry.
However, despite the many potentials and opportunities offered by this type of technology, there are also some negative aspects emerging. AI image generator apps are trained on an archive of images sourced from the internet, which may contain stereotypes, biases, and harmful beliefs that the algorithm will use to create artwork. This means that discrimination could become prevalent in generated content, raising ethical concerns.
The focus of my research will be precisely to explore this, as design and visual communication are increasingly adopting AI, and this inevitably leads to cultural/social consequences.
