I'd like to caution readers that this is a lengthy text. I likely won't respond to comments, mainly to avoid unnecessary arguments and to save time and energy. I intend to share thoughts on the current state of the entertainment industry, social media, and AI.

Having recently defended an artist and preparing a talk reflecting on 20 years of experience working with numerous artists and industry professionals, these insights could be an introduction to my upcoming public presentation. This reflection also acts as a post-mortem of the IAMAG Master Classes held in Paris as we prepare to relocate the event to Montreal next year.

Over two decades, I've consistently focused IAMAG (formerly IT'S ART) on the artistic and creative aspects rather than specific tools. This year, celebrating IAMAG Online's 20th anniversary, IAMAG Master Classes 25 embraced traditional artists alongside digital creators, fostering a dialogue beyond the choice of medium or tools. What matters most isn't the finished image, illustration, or sculpture but the motivations and creative processes behind it.

However, the rise of social media and AI has complicated this landscape. Initially, social networks allowed artists to easily connect and share their passion. Over time, the emergence of divisive politics fragmented these once cohesive communities into increasingly isolated bubbles, where individuals often mistake their smaller, like-minded groups for broader consensus.

AI's introduction amplified this fragmentation. At first, many artists openly experimented with tools like Disco Diffusion and Midjourney. However, justified ethical concerns quickly reshaped attitudes, leading most to publicly oppose AI-generated art. This public stance, though understandable, obscured nuanced private discussions. Smaller, strictly anti-AI bubbles emerged, further dividing the artistic community.

(Disclaimer: IAMAG does not support AI-generated art. There is no AI-generated content on our platforms or affiliated brands. My goal here is purely to reflect objectively on these developments.)

Through the IAMAG Master Classes events, especially over the past two editions, I've observed industry professionals openly addressing these issues. Artists clearly demonstrated AI's capabilities and limitations, highlighting the irreplaceable role of artists. Soon, we'll share additional discussions from artists who navigate AI realistically and thoughtfully.

Recently, I noticed criticism directed toward artists who admitted to dealing with AI in early client pitches. Many online commentators argue artists should refuse AI projects, suggesting a disconnect between online perception and industry realities. Many clients now regularly incorporate AI-generated visuals into preliminary concepts, replacing previously standard methods such as image banks or reference images.

Social media often distorts such realities, offering misleading advice to aspiring artists. Producing art from a simple AI prompt doesn't equate to genuine creativity or diminish an artist's value. Artists who equate their work's value solely to AI-generated imagery misunderstand their proper role, inadvertently undermining themselves.

Art is more than the final image—it provokes emotions, shapes visions, and guides creative processes. These fundamental aspects remain beyond AI's capabilities. Techniques will continue evolving, but meaningful artistic expression remains rooted in human insight and intentionality.

Throughout my career, I've been fortunate to collaborate with traditional, digital, and hybrid artists, bringing them together at IAMAG events to foster genuine dialogue and collaboration. Even amidst disagreements, participants consistently agree on the essential importance of the creative process.

Although I once hoped this collaborative spirit might thrive again online, I'm increasingly convinced it won't because of the social bubble phenomena.

For these reasons, I'll continue to organize in-person IAMAG events, where genuine connections, realistic dialogues, and creativity flourish beyond the constraints and illusions of social media.