2 answers
Mae
Student
Ashburn, Virginia
1
Question
Updated
231 views
How can aspiring visual artists or animators build a sustainable career and maintain originality as AI becomes more influential in the creative industry, and what skills should they focus on to stay competitive?
I’m a student interested in pursuing a major in visual arts or animation. I enjoy drawing and creative storytelling, and I’m considering a future career in the animation or digital art industry. However, I’ve been seeing a lot of discussion about how AI is starting to impact creative fields, especially art and animation.
I’m excited about the field, but also a bit uncertain about what the future will look like for artists. I want to make sure I’m choosing a path where I can grow creatively while also having stable career opportunities. I’m especially interested in understanding how artists can adapt to these changes and what I should be doing now to prepare.
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2 answers
Alexander Laurence
Childrens Art Instructor
4
Answers
Sonoma, California
Updated
Alexander’s Answer
Hi Mae!
I had a lot of the same worries as you do, and given that I'm still actively in school for animation, I can give you my advice so far going through it.
One thing I keep in mind is the animation field is a huge umbrella of different careers, with a wide range of different employment opportunities. Even if you don't end up working in animation, having the skill to know how to 3D model or animate can get you into a wide range of multimedia positions.
What's important is to remember AI can never replace human passion, and it is reliant on hoping you give up your passion to allow it to succeed. If you enjoy animation, the animation field will create opportunities for you.
I had a lot of the same worries as you do, and given that I'm still actively in school for animation, I can give you my advice so far going through it.
One thing I keep in mind is the animation field is a huge umbrella of different careers, with a wide range of different employment opportunities. Even if you don't end up working in animation, having the skill to know how to 3D model or animate can get you into a wide range of multimedia positions.
What's important is to remember AI can never replace human passion, and it is reliant on hoping you give up your passion to allow it to succeed. If you enjoy animation, the animation field will create opportunities for you.
Ted Warnock
Senior Lead Games Animator
11
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Ted’s Answer
Hi Mae,
Thank you for your insightful question.
As with all forms of commercial art over the last century, tools continuously evolve. AI, in particular, appears to be at the beginning of its journey and could become an essential tool for artists in the future. However, it is important to remember that AI is still just a tool. Similar to other innovations in the past, the aim is always to unlock creative potential more efficiently and affordably, which, in turn, can increase profitability.
Regardless of what direction digital animation production takes in the coming decade—whether AI becomes more integrated into the pipeline or not—it’s crucial to remember that you will still need to be an artist first and foremost. A solid understanding of core concepts such as color theory, composition, drawing, design, typography, and animation principles will remain essential, no matter what tools you choose to use.
If you find true fulfillment in creating, in visual storytelling, and spend your free time reading, studying, and practicing your craft, it will undoubtedly become your "dependable strength." With this dedication, you’ll be able to build a successful career, regardless of the tools at your disposal.
If this resonates with you, I would recommend exploring online courses that focus on the foundational principles of art. From there, engage with your instructors to receive guidance on how to best advance your career.
Personally, I’ve found that courses on https://www.cgmasteracademy.com are designed specifically for artists tend to offer well-structured learning paths, are more affordable than traditional art schools, and are taught by professionals actively working in the field.
While online training offers a different experience compared to traditional in-person classrooms, it's worth noting that physical art schools can be quite expensive, especially when it comes to building a strong foundation in the arts. If cost isn’t a limiting factor for you, attending a physical school can still be an option to consider.
Best regards,
Ted Warnock
Thank you for your insightful question.
As with all forms of commercial art over the last century, tools continuously evolve. AI, in particular, appears to be at the beginning of its journey and could become an essential tool for artists in the future. However, it is important to remember that AI is still just a tool. Similar to other innovations in the past, the aim is always to unlock creative potential more efficiently and affordably, which, in turn, can increase profitability.
Regardless of what direction digital animation production takes in the coming decade—whether AI becomes more integrated into the pipeline or not—it’s crucial to remember that you will still need to be an artist first and foremost. A solid understanding of core concepts such as color theory, composition, drawing, design, typography, and animation principles will remain essential, no matter what tools you choose to use.
If you find true fulfillment in creating, in visual storytelling, and spend your free time reading, studying, and practicing your craft, it will undoubtedly become your "dependable strength." With this dedication, you’ll be able to build a successful career, regardless of the tools at your disposal.
If this resonates with you, I would recommend exploring online courses that focus on the foundational principles of art. From there, engage with your instructors to receive guidance on how to best advance your career.
Personally, I’ve found that courses on https://www.cgmasteracademy.com are designed specifically for artists tend to offer well-structured learning paths, are more affordable than traditional art schools, and are taught by professionals actively working in the field.
While online training offers a different experience compared to traditional in-person classrooms, it's worth noting that physical art schools can be quite expensive, especially when it comes to building a strong foundation in the arts. If cost isn’t a limiting factor for you, attending a physical school can still be an option to consider.
Best regards,
Ted Warnock