Quick visuals with AI

Whilst I maintain a sceptical stance on graphic design and computerised image generation, I am definitely a fan of AI's ability to swiftly bring ideas to visual fruition. When tackling the expansive canvas of Alney Island, where numerous features dot the landscape, the utility of AI lies in its capacity to conjure up multiple representations aligned with one's conceptualisation or, perhaps more commonly, in very unexpected ways.

Granted, luck or precise prompts play a pivotal role in yielding nearly instantaneous visuals that occasionally hit the mark. Take, for instance, a prompt that envisioned "a large timber climbing frame for children, inspired by Victorian industry - to include mill wheels, set in a woodland clearing in realistic style."

Another prompt requested a "Contemporary art installation in a riverside nature reserve inspired by Viking runestone." While these are not flawless, they offer a swift and efficient means to convey ideas for posters, allowing for the allocation of time and effort elsewhere to gather information that will inspire and ultimately refine and strengthen subsequent prompts.

Although not an expert in crafting prompts, I acknowledge that serendipity often plays a role in successful outcomes. It's not uncommon to experience moments of frustration when relying on AI to comprehend and articulate the nuances of one's thoughts!!

As designers, we understand and recognise the endless possibilities and outcomes for such briefs. Sometimes it is important to acknowledge that the simplicity of scribbling down ideas may be a more efficient and straightforward approach!