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The Type Convo is a podcast that dives into the world of typography, design, and creative journeys. Each episode brings you behind the scenes with top designers and type experts who share insights, challenges, and inspiration from their work. Hosted by SilverStag Type Foundry, this series is perfect for creatives eager to learn from the industry’s most innovative minds. Join us for real conversations that go beyond the surface of design.
Hey, everyone, and welcome to this week's Monday Break(Through). Even though I did joke a bit on Instagram that I might be talking about a certain controversial rebranding, I really don't think there's much to add to the conversation, so I'm just gonna stay out of it. I mean, I could say whether I liked or not or dive deeper into controversy, but that's not really what these Monday Break(Throughs) are about. Today, on the other hand, I actually want to talk about another hot topic in our design world, and it's the topic that has the potential to be life changing for many of us, and that's AI. Somehow, it seems like everywhere you look, there's another article, another post, or another reel predicting how AI will make creativity obsolete.
The Type Convo:And to be honest, I actually don't believe that. I don't buy it and not even for a second. I mean, here's the thing. AI for me is just another tool and not a replacement for what we do as designers. And instead of fearing it, I think we need to ask ourselves, how can I use this to my advantage?
The Type Convo:How can I stay ahead but actually lean into what makes my work unique? And why I think this way? Well, let me give you a couple of examples. I mean, when the first computers were released, public reactions were strikingly similar to what we're seeing with AI right now. People fear that computers would take over their jobs leading to actual resistance in a lot of industries.
The Type Convo:I do understand them. I mean, who wouldn't worry? I mean, imagine the scenario. The year is 1952. You see this intelligent machine the size of your kitchen, and you just start asking yourself questions.
The Type Convo:Right? But what happened in the end? I mean, computers actually revolutionized the job market, making our work faster and even more efficient. Take type design as another example. Do you know how much time Adrian Froediger needed to create Universe, one of the most popular typefaces ever?
The Type Convo:3 years. The whole 3 years. And compare that to today where tools have made our process much faster, allowing designers to focus on creativity rather than the mechanics. The same thing happened with image editing. Even years before Photoshop's release, National Geographic faced a huge backlash in 1982 for digitally altering an image of the pyramids of Giza just to fit a vertical layout.
The Type Convo:And when Adobe Photoshop launched in 1990, many photographers worried it would put him out of business. But look at where the photography industry right now is. It's striving like never before because we humans are highly adaptable. And while there's a lot of talk about AI making designers relevant, the truth is that AI will always lack one critical element, and that's the human touch. Just think about the best designs you've ever created.
The Type Convo:They were not great because of the tools you used. They were actually great because of the story you were telling, the emotions you were trying to evoke, and the personal touches you put into every single detail. Those are the things that AI cannot replicate. Sure. It can generate a logo, but it cannot sit down with a client, listen to their story, and translate all of that into an identity that feels deeply personal.
The Type Convo:Here's the truth in the end. AI is not going to replace you because it cannot. It doesn't have your perspective. It doesn't have your voice or your ability to connect with people on deeply human level. The work that stands out in the end, the work that lasts isn't the work that's perfect.
The Type Convo:It's the work that feels real, that feels personal. It's the work that tells a story. So today, here's my challenge for you this week. Embrace AI. Find the ways that can work for you, but also think about how you can actually make your work more you.
The Type Convo:Maybe that means adding a simple hand drawn element to your next project or writing a personal story to a company or portfolio. Whatever it is, in the end, the magic isn't in the tools you use. It's in the heart you put into your work. And that's it for this week's Monday Breakthrough. I really hope this gives you some kind of a fresh perspective on AI and inspires you to keep creating with confidence.
The Type Convo:If this message resonates with you or if you have any questions or you are maybe just trying to figure out how to integrate AI with your workflow, I would love to hear your thoughts. Drop me a message on Instagram or leave a comment on the podcast, whatever suits you best. Until next week, keep creating, keep growing, and just remember, your work matters because it comes from you. See you next time, everyone.