Agenda

Milton Friedman said that in times of crisis, the solutions are picked from stories lying around. Right now, artists do not have a story of a future where they feel empowered and optimistic, one in which their opinions matter and their input is valued. These stories do not produce themselves. We need to organize, bind together, and create such a story. This is what this talk aims to accomplish.

Drawing on nearly twenty years as a professional game artist, art director, and technical art director, alongside almost a decade running an AI company serving major entertainment studios, Andrew examines how AI has already "replaced engineers" inside his own company and what artists need to learn from that shift. He outlines concrete, actionable steps artists can take to ensure their voices are not drowned out by technology and to move from merely keeping a seat at the table to helping lead the art of tomorrow.

Takeaway

Attendees leave with a clear understanding of how value flows in creative industries and how to ensure their contribution remains indispensable. They gain practical strategies to increase leverage, outpace automation, and build a sustainable creative career, while organizing together to actively shape how AI impacts production.

Intended Audience

This session is for anyone who is tired of feeling powerless in the face of the impending AI transformation of creative industries. It is primarily designed for artists, designers, and creative professionals who want to actively shape the future of their craft, though all are welcome.