AI as a creative partner: a constructive example from The New Yorker
The New Yorker’s recent profile illustration of Sam Altman, created by mixed-media artist David Szauder and labeled “Generated using A.I.,” offers a clear, constructive vision for how generative tools can fit into publishing. Rather than presenting AI as a replacement for human craft, the piece foregrounds the artist’s hand and technique while acknowledging the use of AI — an approach that emphasizes collaboration and accountability.
Szauder’s work is rooted in collage, video, and generative processes that predate the current wave of commercial tools. That lineage matters: it shows generative models adding capabilities to an existing artistic practice instead of inventing a new one from scratch. The result is an evocative, original illustration that retains the artist’s voice while exploring visual possibilities unlocked by AI assistance.
Transparency is the real win. The editorial disclosure — a simple, visible credit stating that AI was used — strengthens trust between creators, publishers, and readers. If more outlets adopt clear labeling and provenance for AI-assisted pieces, the industry gets a practical framework to support fair attribution and informed consumption of media.
Ultimately, this example points toward a positive path: tools that expand artists’ toolkits, editorial standards that respect authorship, and an evolving creative ecosystem that prizes both innovation and integrity.