As we enter the new year, I want to share a heartfelt message with all of you, especially the artists who form the lifeblood of our creative industry. This past year has been challenging in countless ways, and I know many of you have faced moments of fear and uncertainty. I’ve been there myself, and I want to tell you that while it’s easy to say, living in fear won’t help. We find the strength to rise again through hope and faith in our vision.
When I founded IAMAG, the journey was anything but smooth. There were times I thought I wouldn’t make it, yet holding onto hope and rethinking my approach time and again helped me navigate through tough times. This resilience has been tested repeatedly, especially in recent years, as the entertainment industry and IAMAG felt the ripples of change and challenges. But despite the difficulties, I found opportunities to evolve, ensuring IAMAG’s survival and growth.
One major challenge this year has been the fear and anguish sparked by AI’s growing role in the industry. Many have spent time-fighting it head-on, trying to cancel or control something inevitable. I believe this energy is better spent creating. The heart of what makes art extraordinary is its humanity—the uniqueness of ideas, the depth of storytelling, the personal choices, and the emotions infused into every piece.
AI-generated content, for all its novelty, lacks these elements. It cannot replicate the soul of a true artist. This is why, even in a world flooded with generative art, the value of tangible art stands out more than ever. The traditional art market is booming, and this is an opportunity to showcase the profound difference between what is created and what is generated. This is also why IAMC25 will feature more traditional artists than ever—a celebration of the timeless craft that defines our industry.
IAMC25 isn’t just an event; it’s a tribute to all who have shaped this industry and a love letter to those who continue to create and lead. As IAMAG marks its 20th anniversary next year, this event will be one of our grandest. It may also be the last of its kind in Paris as we plan for significant changes in the coming years. This lineup, this celebration, is for you—the artists who inspire and persevere.
To all of you, this is your moment. The world needs your creativity, your stories, your art. Now more than ever, focusing on your unique voice and what sets you apart is essential. The challenges we face are opportunities to prove the enduring value of real art. Let’s embrace them together.
I wish you a year filled with hope, creativity, and success. Let’s make this year a testament to the power of art and the resilience of those who create it. I hope to see you in Paris one last time, to celebrate two decades of creativity!
